The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and with the Detroit Lions' roster in flux, it's an exciting time for fans. As we approach the event, let's take a look at a seven-round mock draft, focusing on the team's nine draft picks and the players they might consider selecting. This mock draft is a fun exercise, and I'll be adding my personal commentary and analysis along the way.
Round 1: Rebuilding the Offensive Line
The Lions have made it clear that they want to rebuild their offensive line with youth and physicality. Blake Miller, a 6-foot-7 right tackle from Clemson, is an ideal fit for this strategy. Miller has the raw traits and intangible skill set that will make him appealing to the Lions. With 54 starts at right tackle, he's a plug-and-play option who should start from Day 1 in the NFL. His wrestling background helps him control defenders at the point of attack, and his mental makeup is a perfect fit for the team. However, this move would require the Lions to shift All-Pro Penei Serwell to left tackle, which is a small price to pay for the potential of Miller.
Round 2: Adding a Pass Rusher
Lions fans have been waiting for a pass rusher, and with Gabe Jacas from Illinois, they might finally get their man. Jacas' game has been compared to Trey Hendrickson's, and his relentless motor, instincts, and hand usage/technique make him an ideal defensive end to pair opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Jacas' power-based game and terrific first step allow him to leverage blockers, making him a perfect fit for the Lions' defense.
Round 4: Safety Insurance
With questions surrounding Kerby Joseph's knee, the Lions need to add safety insurance. Bud Clark from TCU is a ballhawking safety with 15 career interceptions and the positional range to roam from single-high to cover from the slot. Clark's three-time captain experience and special teams skills make him a valuable contributor as a rookie.
Round 4: Linebacker Depth
Bryce Boettcher from Oregon is a unique prospect who began his college career as an elite center fielder on the baseball team. He couldn't resist the temptation to walk on to the football team and has since prioritized his NFL career. Boettcher's outfielder-like vision and attacking downhill mentality make him a challenging prospect for a starting WILL role, while also immediately contributing in all five phases on special teams.
Round 5: Tight End Depth
Nate Boerkircher from Texas A&M is an inline TE-Y who will remind you of a young Tyler Conklin. He's a balanced tight end who can give you reliable blocking and pass-catching reps as a rookie, with the upside to develop into a starter with time. With the Lions expanding their offense to include more 13 personnel, Boerkircher's blocking technique and efficiency will get him on the field, and his underrated pass-catching skills could make him an unanticipated receiving mismatch for defenses.
Round 5: Running Back Depth
J'Mari Taylor from Virginia is a compact, explosive runner who is an ideal power complement to an RB1 speedback like Jahmyr Gibbs. Taylor's ability to contribute as a pass catcher and execute above-average pass protection skills makes him a viable contributor on all three downs. In Detroit, Taylor would provide insurance to Isiah Pacheco with future RB2 upside.
Round 6: Edge Rusher Depth
George Gumbs Jr. from Florida is an EDGE who began his college career as a tight end at Northern Illinois. He's still developing his overall skills, but he has a solid floor of traits, rushing the passer and defending the run, with the intelligence and upside to grow into a heavy rotational contributor on the edge. His ability to drop into zone coverage will also give him some SAM linebacker range in the Lions' scheme.
Round 6: Defensive Line Depth
Tyler Onyedim from Texas A&M is a versatile defensive lineman who offers a diverse skill set. After four years at Iowa State playing at the 5-technique, he transferred to Texas A&M and pushed inside to the 3-technique, where his production took off. In Detroit, Onyedim would offer the Lions an interior pass-rushing 3-technique, while also having the ability to kick to the 4i/5T and set a firm edge. As a rookie, he would likely challenge Mekhi Wingo and Tyler Lacy for a depth role.
Round 7: Defensive Back Depth
Jadon Canady from Oregon is viewed by most draft analysts as a slot corner with starting potential. However, I believe he has the range to play multiple spots in the secondary, projecting to see the field players like Christian Izien and Avonte Maddox. Canady is a reliable defender who uses his intelligence/instincts to locate the ball early and the aggressiveness to compete in the passing and run game. In Detroit, Canady would compete for time in the slot, while also providing insurance at other spots in the secondary.
This mock draft is a fun exercise, and I've added my personal commentary and analysis along the way. It's important to remember that the draft is a fluid process, and the Lions' needs and strategy may change. However, this mock draft gives us a glimpse into the potential future of the team and the players they might consider selecting.
