The Detroit Lions are actively exploring safety prospects ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, aiming to strengthen their defensive backfield following the departure of Ifeatu Melifonwu in free agency. The team is set to host Virginia’s Jonas Sanker and Penn State’s Jaylen Reed for pre-draft visits, indicating a focused interest in bolstering their safety positions.
Jonas Sanker, who previously met with the Lions at the NFL Combine, is noted for his versatility and is considered an ideal candidate for the third safety role. His experience spans playing strong safety, free safety, and slot corner positions. Sanker is recognized for his robust tackling skills and significant contributions on special teams. Analysts project him as a fourth-round pick; however, the Lions might consider selecting him with their No. 102 pick in the third round, especially if they are unable to re-sign Kerby Joseph.
Jaylen Reed, a Detroit native and alumnus of Martin Luther King Jr. High School, is categorized as a local visit. Reed is characterized as a physical safety with commendable range and is anticipated to contribute effectively on special teams. While he may not offer the same level of versatility as Sanker, his skill set aligns with the Lions’ defensive strategies.
In addition to Sanker and Reed, the Lions have shown interest in other safety prospects, including Texas’ Andrew Mukuba, as part of their comprehensive evaluation process to identify suitable additions to their defensive roster.
These pre-draft visits underscore the Lions’ commitment to enhancing their secondary, reflecting a strategic approach to addressing key positions in preparation for the upcoming season.