The 2025 NFL Combine is just around the corner, and the Detroit Lions are likely to be paying close attention to the safety position. With several talented safeties set to participate in the combine, the Lions will have a chance to evaluate some of the top prospects in person. Here are seven safeties the Lions should watch closely:
1. Antonio Johnson, Texas A&M: Johnson is one of the top safety prospects in the draft, and for good reason. He’s a physical player who excels in the box, with excellent tackling skills and a knack for making plays in the backfield.
2. Jordan Battle, Alabama: Battle is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong safety. He’s a ball hawk with excellent instincts, and his ability to cover receivers one-on-one makes him a valuable asset in the secondary.
3. Kenny McIntosh, Georgia: McIntosh is a bit of a sleeper prospect, but he’s got all the physical tools to be a successful safety in the NFL. He’s got excellent speed and agility, and his ability to cover receivers in space makes him a valuable asset.
4. JL Skinner, Boise State: Skinner is a physical safety who excels in the box. He’s got excellent tackling skills, and his ability to diagnose plays and make tackles for loss makes him a valuable asset in the secondary.
5. Christopher Smith, Georgia: Smith is a versatile safety who can play both free and strong safety. He’s got excellent instincts, and his ability to cover receivers one-on-one makes him a valuable asset in the secondary.
6. Quindell Johnson, Memphis: Johnson is a bit of a sleeper prospect, but he’s got all the physical tools to be a successful safety in the NFL. He’s got excellent speed and agility, and his ability to cover receivers in space makes him a valuable asset.
7. *Gervarrius Owens, Houston*: Owens is a physical safety who excels in the box. He’s got excellent tackling skills, and his ability to diagnose plays and make tackles for loss makes him a valuable asset in the secondary.
The Lions will likely be looking for a safety who can provide a physical presence in the secondary, while also possessing the range and instincts to cover receivers one-on-one. These seven prospects all possess some combination of those skills, and the Lions would be wise to keep a close eye on them during the combine.