With the 2025 NFL draft now behind us, analysts have started releasing their revised power rankings in anticipation of the upcoming season. Did the Detroit Lions enhance or damage their position?
The Lions exited the 2025 NFL draft with seven players, and although some selections received praise, expert opinions on draft grades ranked the Lions alongside the Miami Dolphins for having the second-worst graded class in the NFL. The Cincinnati Bengals ranked last in those standings.
General manager Brad Holmes faced some backlash for waiting to address edge rusher, and the trade-up for Arkansas wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa also caught many off guard.
However, did the Lions’ draft suffice to cause a drop in their ranking among experts, despite having an already impressive roster? Let’s discover.
NFL power standings 2025
Vinnie Iyer, Sporting News: 5 (+1)
Iyer: “The Lions had the opportunity to concentrate on depth this time due to what GM Brad Holmes accomplished in previous offseasons to transform them into an NFC contender. They remain on the shortlist for winning the conference, now with bolstered depth in both offensive and defensive lines.
Eric Edholm, NFL.com: 5 (remains the same)
Edholm: “With every new draft, it’s getting simpler to pinpoint the prospects that the Lions will favor. Dan Campbell frequently discusses the kinds of players they prefer, and the 2025 draft class has further solidified that archetype. Defensive tackle Tyleik Williams is a force and quite a challenge in the front line. Tate Ratledge and Miles Frazier are two rugged street guards. The Day 3 selections featured a blend of potential and stability. Then there’s the intriguing scenario of Isaac TeSlaa, the quintessential draft enthusiast’s draft enthusiast. TeSlaa didn’t rank in my top 100 prospects, but he clearly fits in Detroit as a solid blocker, a weapon in the red zone, and an additional target with size and speed. Numerous individuals considered him a potential Day 3 selection, so it’s important to highlight what the Lions sacrificed to draft him 70th overall: two third-round picks for the following year. That’s more than simply a case of Faygo and a box of Better Made chips, you know. However, that’s precisely what I mean when discussing the Lions: