The Detroit Lions made a bold move in the 2025 NFL Draft, trading up to select Arkansas wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa—a pick that raised eyebrows across the league. TeSlaa wasn’t heavily targeted during his final season with the Razorbacks, nor was he widely projected as a high pick, making the Lions’ decision a curious one. But he’s here now, and in Dan Campbell’s offense, he’ll likely be used primarily as a blocker with occasional trick-play duties. At 6’4″, with athleticism and reliable hands, TeSlaa has the tools to carve out a role—if he puts in the work. Should he develop, the trade-up will look much more justified.
Still, Detroit’s draft moves were quickly overshadowed by the Atlanta Falcons’ aggressive strategy. Atlanta not only grabbed linebacker Jalon Walker with the 15th overall pick, but also traded back into the first round to snatch up pass rusher James Pearce Jr. at No. 26. In one night, the Falcons assembled a frighteningly young, athletic edge presence—something Lions fans could only dream of. Pearce, in particular, would’ve been an ideal complement to Aidan Hutchinson in Detroit’s pass rush.
Instead, it’s the Falcons who struck gold, and the Lions who now face the consequences—immediately.
Falcons vs. Lions: Rookie Showcase Set for Preseason Clash
On August 8 at 7 p.m. EST, Atlanta will host Detroit in a preseason matchup where both teams are expected to give their rookies valuable reps. For the Lions, sixth-round pass rusher Ahmed Hassanein will likely see action, squaring off against Pearce and Walker in what’s shaping up to be an intriguing battle for rookie bragging rights.
