The Detroit Lions are coming off a historic season, achieving franchise records in wins (15) and total points (564), marking one of their best performances since the 1970 NFL-AFL merger.
However, success often comes at a cost, as Detroit has seen key figures from their coaching staff depart. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has taken over as head coach of the New York Jets, while defensive line coach and run-game coordinator Terrell Williams is now leading the defense for the New England Patriots.
Additionally, Detroit faces uncertainty regarding its front seven, with ten key contributors still unsigned following the initial phase of free agency. While some may return, the team could look to strengthen its pass rush with fresh talent.
In a recent Pro Football Focus (PFF) mock draft, analyst John Kosko projected that the Lions will use their first-round pick (No. 28 overall) to select Nic Scourton, a promising edge rusher from Texas A&M.
Scourton, a 20-year-old from Bryan, Texas, initially played at Purdue, where he made a significant impact over two seasons. In 25 games, he tallied 72 tackles (17 for loss), 12 sacks, three passes defensed, and two forced fumbles, earning Second-Team All-Big Ten honors in his second year.
After transferring to Texas A&M, he continued to impress, recording 37 tackles (14 for loss), five sacks, two passes defensed, and one forced fumble in 12 games, securing a First-Team All-SEC selection.
Scourton received strong grades from PFF in 2024, including an 80.1 overall rating, 80.6 in pass rushing, and 74.4 in run defense, with a 17% pass rush win rate.
With Za’Darius Smith, Al-Quadin Muhammad, and Pat O’Connor currently free agents, the Lions need to replenish their edge depth. While they re-signed Marcus Davenport on a one-year, $2.5 million contract, adding Scourton could provide a long-term solution alongside Aidan Hutchinson.
Scourton’s draft stock places him on the borderline of first-round consideration, meaning he could still be available when Detroit makes its pick late on Day 1 of the draft.