Detroit Lions Make Historic NFL Draft Selection
In recent years, the Detroit Lions have built a reputation for making history, shedding the “Same old Lions” label with strong winning seasons. Continuing that positive momentum, the Lions made another historic mark during the 2025 NFL Draft — and this time, it came with a truly special milestone. Amid the excitement of draft weekend, Detroit quietly achieved a league first with their pick at No. 196 overall.
Lions Draft NFL’s First Egyptian-Born Player
Head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes put careful thought into the players they brought into Detroit’s 2025 draft class, and one of those selections has made NFL history. When the Lions selected Boise State edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein, they made him the first player born in Egypt to be drafted into the NFL.
Beyond the historic significance, Hassanein brings real production to Detroit’s defensive line. Over his final two years at Boise State, he started 28 games, tallied 101 tackles, and racked up 22 sacks. His arrival gives the Lions another weapon to bolster their pass rush alongside stars like Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport.
Hassanein was overwhelmed with joy when he received the call from the Lions’ staff. In an emotional moment, he passionately told Dan Campbell that he would “die” for him on the field, showing just how much it meant to him. “I would die for you, coach,” Hassanein said during the call. “I just wanted you to believe in me.”
Other Lions Draft Moves: A Bold Trade for Isaac TeSlaa
In addition to Hassanein’s historic selection, Detroit made a bold move earlier in the draft by trading up to land wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa in the third round. The Lions moved up 32 spots — from No. 102 to No. 70 — by giving up three third-round picks, including a future pick in 2026.
The aggressive trade was met with skepticism. ESPN’s Jordan Reid labeled it the “worst in-draft trade,” arguing that while TeSlaa is a good player, the cost was too steep. “While I like TeSlaa, I don’t think he was worth the capital the organization surrendered,” Reid commented.
Still, Max DeMara of SideLion Report pointed out that the criticism could serve as extra motivation for TeSlaa. He emphasized that overlooked players often end up making significant impacts once they develop. “It’s most important to give players time to develop and show what they can do in their unique situations,” DeMara wrote.