Lions Make Bold Move Up to No. 11 in Mock Trade for Star Defender
With the 2025 NFL Draft week underway, the Detroit Lions are focused on strengthening an already impressive roster. While last season didn’t end the way they hoped, GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell have built a solid foundation poised for long-term success.
A key part of that success has come through the draft. Holmes has consistently hit on picks like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Aidan Hutchinson, Penei Sewell, Jack Campbell, and Jahmyr Gibbs—making Detroit one of the league’s top drafting teams.
That said, picking at No. 28 in the first round limits their shot at landing a true difference-maker. One solution? Trading up for a top-tier defensive talent to pair with Hutchinson.
Mock Trade: Lions Climb to 11th Overall for Georgia Star Jalon Walker
In a hypothetical trade proposed by Vito Chirco of Detroit Lions on SI, the Lions jump up to the 11th pick via a deal with the San Francisco 49ers. Detroit would send its first- and second-round picks to San Francisco in exchange for the 11th overall pick and a third-rounder.
This move would put the Lions in position to draft Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker—an athletic, high-upside pass rusher who could form a lethal duo with Hutchinson. After the Lions’ defense struggled, especially in the playoffs against Jayden Daniels and the Commanders, it’s clear the defensive side of the ball needs reinforcements.
Detroit’s offense is already in Super Bowl shape. The defense, though talented with standouts like Hutchinson and All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph, needs more elite contributors.
Walker has racked up 11.5 sacks and 19 tackles for loss over the past two seasons and boasts elite speed (4.50 40-yard dash). He’s earned First-Team All-American honors and brings the kind of explosiveness that could transform the Lions’ defense.
With the drop from Detroit’s second-round pick to the Niners’ third being relatively minor, a move like this could be well worth it. If Walker is available, the Lions should seriously consider pulling the trigger—or at least pick up the phone to explore the possibility.