If you asked Detroit Lions fans where they needed to focus attention on with the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, the majority would give you what ended up being a one-word answer: trenches.
Whether it be offensive or defensive line, the Lions need some more talent. But, let's focus on Aidan Hutchinson's running mates for this one.
Fans have long dreamt of another prolific pass rusher opposite Hutchinson, but to this point, it hasn't happened. If the Lions are going to oblige, chances are, it's going to be via the draft. And, in this year's class, Detroit has a perfect fit who also happens to be in their backyard.
Michigan standout defensive end, Derrick Moore, is a solid bet to be a Day 2 pick and the Lions shouldn't let him leave the state of Michigan.
Derrick Moore and Aidan Hutchinson would create havoc across the NFC North together
If Detroit doesn't go defensive end in the first round, there's a great chance they address that position on Day 2, which is where they'll find Moore. The former Wolverine comes into the league as a pass rusher with one mindset: overpower the opposition.
In terms of his pass rush ability, Moore is all about the bull rush. He is out to overpower his opposing linemen and, for lack of a better term, purely engulfs anyone with the ball in their hands when he gets to them.
If you were to ask one of the best in the business, Lance Zierlein of NFL Media, the draft guru puts it pretty firmly:
"Swallows quarterbacks and runners like a crashing wave once he’s close," writes Zierlein.
Moore is no stranger to the quarterback, as he comes off a season having notched 10.0 sacks and countless pressures. The reason he's a Day 2 guy and not a first rounder, though, is due to his lack of production in run defense.
He is not going to come in and be a lethal run defender by any means, but Moore's football intelligence is certainly something that stands out. He's smart enough, therefore, he can logically improve against the run.
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Moore diagnoses plays well. It's just a matter of getting him to put it all together on run plays. He's one who loves to get to the quarterback, but if he's able to put that same energy into playing the run, he'll become the best version of himself.
One more note: you'd have to believe Hutchinson is pounding the table for a fellow Wolverine. So, keep your eyes on him in a few weeks.