The Detroit Lions' 44th overall pick, edge rusher Derrick Moore, was a bit of a controversial one. Detroit traded up eight spots to take Moore ahead of another potential suitor, the Baltimore Ravens, but in the process also lost the opportunity to take players like Zion Young or Gabe Jacas.
The past is in the past now, though. Detroit will be getting a look at Moore during rookie development programming over the summer, but not during rookie camp, as the Lions are skipping that this year. Moore's time to prove his mettle will come during minicamp and training camp later in the summer, and especially in the preseason.
The former Michigan defender still has a ton to offer despite being seen as a reach by some. And, ESPN's Matt Bowen firmly believes that Moore's fit with the Lions makes a lot more sense than other analysts might realize.
"The best speed-to-power rusher in the 2026 class, Moore had 10 sacks in 2025 at Michigan. He walked offensive tackles back into the pocket on tape, showcasing immense striking power and leg drive. This fits with the Lions, who needed a physical rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Moore's rookie value could be on third downs as a designated rusher out of sub-sets. But with Hutchinson drawing protection slides and chips, Moore can also produce early in one-on-one situations."
Moore makes perfect sense for Lions' needs, ESPN analyst says
It's going to be absolutely worth it to throw Moore into as many games as possible early on in the season, especially since Detroit doesn't necessarily have a solid answer at EDGE2 right now. Al-Quadin Muhammad is gone, and D.J. Wonnum has taken his spot.
But, even his potential is a bit questionable right now, given the fact that his production has been so spotty over his six season career. He has had two seasons with eight sacks, though, so the skill is obviously there. It's just a matter of getting it out of him consistently, and that's the challenge ahead for defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.
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If Wonnum doesn't pop right away in camp or preseason, Moore should get the opportunity to take his place. As Bowen notes, Moore's ability to bull rush the pocket could counter Hutchinson well.
It creates a problem for opposing offensive lines that have to figure out whether to double Moore or Hutchinson, and living the results. That's the appeal of having another powerful pass rusher in the fold for Detroit - opponents must pick their poison.
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