The Detroit Lions went into the 2025 NFL draft with a desperate need for an edge rusher. However, the team did not address the need until all the way in the sixth round.
At No. 196 overall, the Lions selected Boise State edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein, who will now try to work his way onto Detroit's roster and into a role. With the lackluster group the Lions currently have, he has a good chance to make the cut.
Over four years at Boise State, Hassanein tallied 24 sacks, including a career-best 12.5 in 2023. In his final collegiate season, the 6-foot-3, 270-pound edge rusher finished with 9.5 sacks.
As a late-round pick, nothing is guaranteed with Hassanein. He could prove to be a diamond in the rough, a solid backup, or he might not even make it out of training camp before being cut. Only time will tell.
Here's a look at how experts graded the Lions' long-awaited edge rusher pick in the sixth round.
Ahmed Hassanein NFL draft grades
Trapasso: "Hassanein is going to ask questions and do whatever is asked of him. Dan Campbell is going to love this player's approach to the game. He is a shorter pass rusher that offers a floor in run defense, similar to Josh Paschal. "
Dharya Sharma, Sporting News: A-
Sharma: "The Lions have finally addressed edge rusher with Hassanein. The 22-year-old was incredibly productive in his final two seasons at Boise State, totaling 12.5 sacks in 2023 and 9.5 sacks in 2024. Hassanein could be a nice rotational piece on Detroit's defensive line."
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