The Stage is Set
The 2025 NFL Combine is just around the corner, scheduled to run from February 27 to March 2. This year’s event promises to be crucial for NFL teams seeking to enhance their rosters ahead of the draft. The Detroit Lions, armed with a promising foundation and some key veterans, will be keeping a keen eye on the safety position as they evaluate potential additions to their defense.
This year’s safety class presents a unique combination of talent, size, and athleticism, making it imperative for the Lions to identify prospects that can deepen their secondary. With starting safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph returning, Detroit has the opportunity not only to solidify their defensive backfield but also to scout potential future stars who can excel in various roles.
Understanding Team Needs
With both starting safeties under contract and young players ready to step up, the Lions’ current safety depth chart appears promising. However, the team must consider the future. Kerby Joseph is entering the final year of his deal, making it crucial for the Lions to contemplate extending his contract or finding a reliable backup.
Additionally, Ifeatu Melifonwu’s potential departure as a free agent creates a gap that could complicate things. This makes scouting for a third safety who can either step in as a starter or develop into a role player essential. The Combine’s on-field drills will shed light on prospects tackling, range, and athletic ability, giving the Lions a clear idea of who might suit their system.
Skills to Watch
As the Lions evaluate safety prospects this week, specific skills will be pivotal. The ability to ‘click and close’—a safety’s capacity to quickly read plays and react with speed—is of utmost importance. Teams are looking for players who can change directions fluidly and have the range necessary to cover substantial areas of the field.
Consistency in tackling is another critical skill. Defensive backs often face the challenge of making significant plays in open space while avoiding blockers. Players who excel in this area can add immediate value to their respective teams, allowing for more creative defensive schemes.
Top 7 Safety Prospects to Monitor
Now let’s delve into the standout safety prospects that the Lions should keep an eye on during the Combine:
1. Malaki Starks, Georgia (6-foot-1, 205 pounds)
Malaki Starks has been described as a fluid athlete with an impressive football IQ. A three-year starter at Georgia, he brings versatility and explosiveness to the Lions’ secondary. Starks can effectively cover in space and contributes well on special teams. His range makes him an attractive option for Detroit, especially after his 2024 season faced some ups and downs.
2. Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina (6-foot-3, 225 pounds)
Standing at 6-foot-3, Emmanwori’s unique size-speed combination is appealing. His physical play style allows him to contribute potentially as a “cover” linebacker while also performing safety responsibilities. His positional versatility might make him a valuable asset to the Lions, as he can match up against tight ends while working in the box.
3. Xavier Watts, Notre Dame (5-foot-11, 203 pounds)
Once a flexible athlete who dabbled in offense and linebacker, Watts finally found a home as a safety. His intuitive play style and ability to quickly diagnose plays give him an edge. Though he may struggle in run defense, his instincts and coverage skills could make him a strong addition to the Lions’ pass defense.
4. Lathan Ransom, Ohio State (6-foot-0, 211 pounds)
Ransom’s physicality and strong decision-making skills set him apart. He thrives in run support and can play comfortably close to the line of scrimmage. His knack for securing tackles and forcing turnovers positions him as a potential special teams dynamo, a quality that the Lions have previously valued.
5. Malachi Moore, Alabama (5-foot-11, 199 pounds)
A two-time captain, Moore has experience playing at various positions in Alabama’s defense. While his speed can sometimes limit him, his intelligence and field awareness make him a reliable safety. He may not be the most intimidating run-stopper, but he can set the edge exceptionally well.
6. Dante Trader Jr., Maryland (5-foot-11, 196 pounds)
Trader’s positional flexibility allows him to adapt to a range of roles. Known for his impressive cover skills, he diagnoses plays exceptionally well. His competitive nature paired with his potential for growth presents an appealing opportunity for the Lions to draft a player with considerable upside.
7. Rayuan Lane III, Navy (5-foot-10, 198 pounds)
Having started 43 straight games, Lane possesses the instincts and quick reaction times necessary for a safety. While he may not excel in coverage, his depth zone tracking and tackling skills on special teams could make him a late-round steal for Detroit, especially if they seek contributors for that unit.
In Conclusion
The upcoming NFL Combine will be a crucial measuring stick for the Lions as they assess the safety talents available in this year’s draft. With two starters already in place, Detroit’s focus will be on enhancing their depth and securing a versatile player who can thrive in various roles. As the Combine unfolds, paying attention to these seven prospects will be key as the Lions look to strengthen their secondary.
By identifying and potentially drafting the right safety, the Detroit Lions could further solidify their defensive unit and pave the way for a successful 2025 season.
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