The Detroit Lions have received higher than anticipated evaluations for their 2025 rookie draft class, following the conclusion of the NFL season. Analysts noted that prominent players like Tyleik Williams, Tate Ratledge, and Isaac TeSlaa demonstrated potential to be long-term starters.
Injuries affected several players selected in the later rounds, such as Miles Frazier, Dan Jackson, and Ahmed Hassanein. Meanwhile, Dominic Lovett, who participated in 12 games, primarily contributed on special teams. The league”s website recently assessed and ranked each draft class after the 2025 season, placing the Lions” rookie class at 16th overall with a grade of B.
According to analyst Gennaro Felice, “Detroit just went from 15-2 No. 1 seed to 9-8 playoff nonparticipant in 12 months” time. And the offensive line”s decline played a clear role in the step-back season. But don”t blame Tate Ratledge — the rookie right guard was the only positive on the interior. A road grader in the run game, Ratledge fit right in with Penei Sewell on the right side of Detroit”s line.” He further noted that Ratledge did not allow a sack after Week 5, significantly improving his pass protection as the season progressed. The second-round pick led the Lions with 1,141 snaps.
Wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa is expected to play a more prominent role in the upcoming season, likely receiving more targets. Felice commented, “Like Ratledge, Tyleik Williams and Isaac TeSlaa played in all 17 games, though their roles were more rotational. After a slow start to the season, Williams ultimately provided the kind of run-stuffing you”d expect from a 328-pound first-round pick. The pass rush is still a work in progress, though. TeSlaa was about as intriguing as a 16-catch receiver could be, particularly because six of those receptions went for touchdowns.” He added, “A viral hit in the preseason, the 6-4, 214-pounder continued to produce eye-popping highlights when the games counted. And he eventually received a steady snap share, from Thanksgiving on.”
As the Lions prepare for the future, the team looks to build upon this promising rookie class. For additional insights and coverage on the Detroit Lions, follow the team on X at @detroitpodcast, visit their Facebook page, and subscribe to the Detroit Lions On SI Lone Wolves YouTube Channel.
