Thomas Harper’s impressive finish to the 2025 season could put him in line for a bigger role with the Detroit Lions this year.

According to A to Z Sports' Mike Payton on YouTube, things are looking up for the former undrafted free agent if either All-Pro Kerby Joseph or Brian Branch isn't ready for Week 1. Both safeties are working their way back from injuries. 

"I see really good things for Thomas Harper. I absolutely believe that he can be a starter in this league, and he could be a starter for the Lions," Payton said.

The analyst pointed out Harper's growth during his first season with the Lions. Due to injuries, the Lions were forced to lean on him.

Payton also expects Harper to open the season with the first-team defense.

"Even if the Lions are waiting for Brian Branch this year, I think Harper is the guy who is starting in place of him," Payton added as per the A to Z Sports YouTube video. "I absolutely see Thomas Harper as somebody the Lions are going to be so happy that they held on to. They made sure to keep him this year. So definitely look at Harper as a real breakout."

Harper has been taking first-team reps during spring practices.  While Payton sees Harper as a breakout candidate, Detroit's coaches have also praised the young safety's development.

Lions coaches have backed Harper's rapid development

Harper entered the NFL with the Los Angeles Chargers as a UDFA. He was then waived and subsequently claimed by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2024. After his rookie season, he didn't make it out of training camp in 2025 and was later picked up by the Lions off waivers in late August.

Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard said Harper handled the transition better than other players.

"He played a lot of good, quality football," Sheppard said, as reported by The Detroit News. "Those were quality snaps he was able to log. We do feel like he is continuing to grow, he is continuing to get better. He is a player that is going to push that unit to be in the lineup."

Harper finished the 2025 season with 37 combined tackles, five pass breakups, and an interception in 12 appearances, including nine starts. 

His 75.9 coverage grade also placed him among the league's top 10 qualifying safeties, as per Pro Football Focus. 

Head coach Dan Campbell has said Harper still needs to become more consistent, but he also believes that will come with experience. 

With Joseph's recovery still uncertain and Branch working back from a torn Achilles, Harper has a clear opportunity for a permanent starting job.

Do you think Harper can get the starting job?

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Written by

Evince Das

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi