The Detroit Lions have some major decisions to make when it comes to the fast-approaching 2026 NFL draft, and the biggest revolves around what position to prioritize in the first-round.
Detroit has what most see as a pair of glaring needs along the offensive and defensive lines, specifically at offensive tackle and edge rusher. Their ability to fill those needs is going to be tested significantly.
If the Lions are able to upgrade both of these spots, it could lead them to a significant resurgence in terms of their future. One catch? it's not going to be easy. There is plenty of demand for both of those spots with other franchises.
Heading toward the draft, some additional light was shed on the demand for the position that could be arguably the biggest need for Detroit in the form of offensive tackle. There's a bit of bad news in that the Lions aren't the only team hunting for such an upgrade
ESPN insider Matt Miller put together a piece looking at some of the latest scoops ahead of the draft. Interestingly enough, he had a tidbit about the offensive line position that the Lions are likely to be firmly monitoring. It figures to be a very active year for blockers up front.
"Expect a heavy run on offensive linemen in Round 1, as one scout told me that we could see up to 10 O-linemen selected in the top 32 picks. He predicted as many as eight offensive tackles and two guards. At the latter position, Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane could be a top-14 selection, and Texas A&M's Chase Bisontis could sneak in as a late first-round pick."
The Lions own pick No. 17, which puts them smack in the middle of things. They will have to decide if they need to trade up to land a lineman they like, or if they can trade back to land a talented player and pick up additional draft assets. It won't be an easy choice considering the action that is likely to take place.
Miller's latest analysis proves the Lions must act fast if they want a big time player along the offensive front. It puts a ton of added pressure on their front office.
Brad Holmes hints at need for Lions adding another offensive tackle
The Lions have an obvious need at offensive tackle following their offseason decision to release Taylor Decker and not sign a major replacement. Even though Holmes sounds encouraged by what Larry Borom can do, it's probably not wise to rely on him long-term.
If that's the case, the Lions need another young offensive tackle. Despite the fact he's talked up Borom, Holmes also conceded to the media that adding another young player at the position is always a good thing for the health of a roster even if it isn't easy to find them.
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"I think any time you can acquire an offensive tackle that's a good player, (it's good). I always think, if you look at offensive tackle, you call that premium position category. I don't think you can ever really have enough of them. Those guys are hard to find. But, you got to make sure that you get the right one. I think there's some good ones. We'll just kind of see how it falls."
Holmes is clearly playing coy ahead of the draft. He likely doesn't want to act like the Lions are desperate for tackle help, but these comments paint a very accurate picture of where things stand. Detroit needs help at the position, and likely can't afford not to add a youngster to chip in for the future. That much is clear in the context of the general manager's words.
All will be decided this week, and it's clear that some twists and turns could be left in the market that will impact the Lions directly.
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