
Lions draft Michigan LB Jimmy Rolder, banking on instincts and special-teams upside
Detroit selected Michigan linebacker Jimmy Rolder with the 118th pick, betting on his strong instincts and solid tackling in spite of just one year as a starter. He posted a low missed-tackle rate, delivered a standout all-around performance against Michigan State in 2025 (10 tackles, 2 TFL, a sack, a fumble recovery, 82.1 PFF), and projects as a key special-teams contributor early while developing as a run defender. He also has a budding connection with fellow defender Jack Campbell from his college days.



