The Detroit Lions aren’t just kicking tires — they’re targeting FAST and PHYSICAL defenders to reshape their front seven. From projected first-rounders to rising Day 2 stars, here’s who impressed Dan Campbell and could be next to wear Honolulu Blue.
The Detroit Lions continued to do their homework at the NFL Combine, holding formal interviews with several defensive prospects who could bolster a unit built on speed and physicality. With coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes emphasizing versatility and toughness, Detroit’s reported meetings focused heavily on front-seven defenders.
Here’s a closer look at the prospects who confirmed conversations with the Lions.
Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami (Fla.)
Akheem Mesidor, a 6-foot-3, 280-pound edge defender from University of Miami, said he came away impressed after meeting with Campbell.
When asked about potentially playing for Campbell, Mesidor cracked a smile and described the Lions coach as “very intense.”
Mesidor began his college career at West Virginia before transferring to Miami, where he developed into a disruptive presence along the defensive front. Known for his power and heavy hands, Mesidor offers inside-out versatility, capable of rushing from a five-technique or sliding inside on passing downs. He totaled multiple seasons with at least five sacks during his collegiate career and consistently generated pressure with his strength and motor.
Mesidor is widely viewed as a Day 2 prospect, with projections ranging from the late second to early third round. His size and physical style would fit Detroit’s aggressive defensive identity.
T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
T.J. Parker, a 6-3, 265-pound edge rusher from Clemson University, also confirmed a formal interview with Detroit. Parker said he discussed the possibility of playing alongside star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.
“The way they play defense is just fast and physical…” Parker said, describing what stands out about Detroit’s scheme.
Parker emerged as one of the ACC’s most productive pass rushers, finishing his most recent season with double-digit sacks and more than 15 tackles for loss. Long and explosive off the edge, Parker combines bend with closing speed, traits that could complement Hutchinson on the opposite side.
Most draft analysts project Parker as a late first- to early second-round selection, depending on team needs and his pre-draft testing numbers.
Caden Curry, EDGE, Ohio State
Caden Curry said he has met with the Lions “a couple times” during the draft process, signaling strong interest from Detroit.
The 6-3, 260-pound defensive end from Ohio State University broke out in 2025 with 11 sacks, showcasing improved pass-rush moves and finishing ability. Curry added double-digit tackles for loss and proved effective setting the edge against the run.
Curry’s combination of production and pedigree in the Big Ten has him projected as a second- to third-round pick. His high motor and power-based rush style would align well with Detroit’s emphasis on physical defensive play.
Jaishawn Barham, Linebacker, Michigan
Linebacker Jaishawn Barham said the Lions spoke with him about playing the “Sam LB/Outside LB” role and described the meeting as positive.
“I felt like it was a good interview,” Barham said.
Barham, listed at 6-3 and 248 pounds at University of Michigan, is known for his downhill physicality and ability to blitz off the edge. A former standout at Maryland before transferring to Michigan, Barham recorded strong tackle numbers and flashed pass-rush upside.
He is projected as a second- or third-round selection and offers scheme versatility in both traditional and hybrid linebacker roles.
Lee Hunter, Defensive Tackle, Texas Tech
Detroit also met with 6-4, 320-pound defensive tackle Lee Hunter from Texas Tech University. Hunter did not specify whether the meeting was formal or informal but commented on Campbell’s presence.
“I think he’s got a lot of energy… he’s about his buisness,” Hunter said.
Hunter is a stout interior defender known for his strength at the point of attack. He posted multiple seasons with at least 30 tackles and consistently occupied blockers in the Big 12. He is projected as a mid- to late-round selection.
Anthony Hill, Linebacker, Texas
Anthony Hill, a 6-3, 237-pound linebacker from University of Texas at Austin, stands out as the most highly touted name linked to Detroit. A two-time All-American, Hill’s sideline-to-sideline speed and coverage ability make him one of the top linebacker prospects in the class.
Hill is projected as a first- or second-round pick, and his athletic profile would add immediate impact potential to Detroit’s defense.
As the draft approaches, the Lions’ focus on fast, physical defenders is clear. Whether through early-round investments or Day 2 value picks, Detroit appears intent on adding more edge and linebacker talent to complement Hutchinson and reinforce Campbell’s identity on defense.