Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft Review

A wild 2026 NFL Draft weekend has come and gone. It’s a bittersweet time. I’m sad that Draft season has come to an end, but it’s always fun to discuss who had the “best” and “worst” draft. It’s also fun to breakdown who your favorite team ended up with as soon as Mr. Irrelevant is selected. That’s what I’m doing here. Enjoy my Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft Review!

Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft Picks

Round 1, 17th overall: Blake Miller, RT, Clemson

Miller is a perfect fit in Detroit. He started all 54 games the past four seasons (most consecutive starts by a non-specialist in school history) and set the Clemson record for career offensive snaps played (3,778). His toughness (reportedly one missed practice in college), length, and athleticism makes him “plug and play” at right tackle for the Lions.

Round 2, 44th overall: Derrick Moore, EDGE, Michigan

Detroit came into this Draft with clear needs at offensive tackle and defensive end. They got their tackle in round one, and get their edge rusher here with Moore. He’s a physical edge setter who can hold it down against the run, and get pressure in the passing game. He should challenge for snaps immediately opposite Aidan Hutchinson.

Round 4, 118th overall: Jimmy Rolder, LB, Michigan

Rolder had only 11 career starts, and battled injuries throughout his time at Michigan. Despite the limited experience, he shows potential in coverage, and has sideline to sideline range. Rolder adds depth to a thin linebacker group in Detroit, and will contribute immediately on special teams. Another selection with very strong character traits.

Round 5, 157th overall: Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State

Abney had a second round grade on my Big Board, and was one of the steals of the 2026 NFL Draft. He’s undersized and too handsy in coverage, but his toughness and competitiveness fits in Detroit. He can play inside or outside, and could be that valuable day three pick that becomes a starter sooner than later.

Round 5, 168th overall: Kendrick Law, WR, Kentucky

This was a pick to bolster the special teams. Law is an underneath slot receiver who didn’t produce much in the passing game. He played a ton on special teams, though. That will be his role in the NFL. Perhaps he can provide some value as a special teamer and depth wide receiver.

Round 6, 205th overall: Skyler Gill-Howard, DL, Texas Tech

Skyler Gill-Howard is another high character, high effort, hard working player drafted by the Lions. Gill-Howard has solid athleticism, but is undersized for the interior. He also lacks experience (only seven starts in college). His effort and leadership will endear him to coaches, and he has a chance to stick as a rotational lineman.

Round 7, 222nd overall: Tyre West, DL, Tennessee

West played on the edge in college, but will likely be more of a three-technique in the league. He is a rotational piece on the defensive line at best in Detroit, and may struggle to make the roster.

Undrafted free agents signed:

• QB Luke Altmyer, Illinois
• TE Miles Kitselman, Tennessee
• G Melvin Priestly, Illinois
• EDGE Eric O’Neill, Rutgers
• EDGE Anthony Lucas, USC
• DT Aidan Keanaaina, Cal
• LB Erick Hunter, Morgan State
• CB De’Shawn Rucker, USF
• DB Aamaris Brown, UNLV

Luke Altmyer could’ve been drafted, and was productive in Illinois’ pro-style offense. He is currently listed as Detroit’s third string quarterback. Aidan Keanaaina received the most guaranteed money in Detroit’s undrafted free agent class, which shows you how the team feels about his potential to contribute. Anthony Lucas was seen as a potential day three pick, but went undrafted due to a lack of production and a shallow pass rushing repertoire. Lucas has the physical traits to make the final roster as a rotational edge piece.