The Detroit Lions need to knock it out of the park in the 2026 NFL Draft, as failing to do so could lead to some of the other contenders in the deep NFC North starting to pass them following a subpar 9-8 season.
The Lions not only need to find some offensive linemen that can help mitigate the loss of some long-time starters, but their defensive line needs an impact playmaker and David Montgomery must be replaced.
This seven-round 2026 NFL Mock Draft does as good a job as any when it comes to addressing this team's biggest needs and finding adequate value.
Detroit Lions land upgrades at tackle, edge-rusher in 7-round mock draft
Round 1, Pick 17: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Freeling would be an immediate replacement for Taylor Decker, as his otherworldly testing numbers proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that he is capable of being an immediate starter at the professional level. Freeling has been rising, but the skill at the top of this OT class could lead to a slide to No. 17 with a bit of luck.
Round 2, Pick 50: R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma
Thomas is the opposite of Aidan Hutchinson in many ways, as he is an undersized end with poor run defense that will make his name entirely off blazing toward quarterbacks as a speed rusher. With great get-off and a few solid pass-rush moves, Thomas carries starter potential early in his career.
Round 4, Pick 118: Kaytron Allen, RB, Penn State
Allen is the type of hard-charging, knifing running back who can complement Jahmyr Gibbs quite well. With Sione Vaki apparently not making a ton of waves and Isiah Pacheco coming off a terrible season, Allen may end up securing the RB2 role sooner than expected.
Round 4, Pick 128: Hezekiah Masses, CB, Cal
Masses has some issues that stem from his grabby style of play and beanpole frame, but his ball production and ability to generate turnovers are up there with anyone in this class. As an outside corner who needs a very aggressive defense, Masses can find a home in Detroit.
Round 5, Pick 157: Aiden Fisher, LB, Indiana
Fisher lacks the great speed or thumping power of many linebackers that will go high in this draft, but his ability to lead an elite defense and great coverage skills make him ideal depth.
Round 5, Pick 181: Pat Coogan, IOL, Indiana
Coogan had some up-and-down moments when facing off against higher-end athletes, but it seems likely that one of Fernando Mendoza's top interior protectors is going to earn a selection in this range due to a strong 2025.
Round 6, Pick 205: Barion Brown, WR, LSU
Brown is one of the fastest players at any position in this class, and that ability to race open deep will help him compete with Greg Dortch for snaps during his rookie season.
Round 6, Pick 213: Nadame Tucker, EDGE, Western Michigan
A one-season wonder without much run defense upside, Tucker is another speedy rusher who could thrive in sub-packages early in his career in a James Houston fashion.
Round 7, Pick 222: Kaden Wetjen, WR, Iowa
Wetjen profiles as an ace special teamer and returner, which could help him make up for the loss of Kalif Raymond despite some average receiving numbers.