Lions Eyeing Sewell Move to Left Tackle for 2026

Coach Campbell sees Pro Bowl tackle as key to Detroit's primetime plans.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:04am

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Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell revealed at the NFL's annual league meetings in Phoenix that he has discussed moving star offensive tackle Penei Sewell to the coveted left tackle position for the 2026 season. This potential position change is seen as crucial to the Lions' hopes of remaining a primetime TV draw in the coming years.

Why it matters

The left tackle position is considered one of the most important on an NFL offense, protecting the quarterback's blind side. Sewell's move would solidify a key part of the Lions' offensive line and help keep Detroit as a marquee national TV draw, as the league tends to schedule high-profile teams and players in primetime slots.

The details

Campbell said he has talked directly with Sewell, the Lions' 2021 first-round draft pick, about the potential position change. Sewell has primarily played right tackle for Detroit so far in his young career, but the team believes his skill set would translate well to the left side.

  • The Lions' discussions with Sewell about the position change took place at the NFL's annual league meetings in Phoenix, Arizona.
  • The 2026 NFL season will be the sixth year of Sewell's professional career, as he was drafted in 2021.

The players

Dan Campbell

The head coach of the Detroit Lions, who is spearheading the potential position change for Penei Sewell.

Penei Sewell

The Detroit Lions' star offensive tackle, who has primarily played right tackle so far in his NFL career but is being considered for a move to the coveted left tackle position.

Mike North

The NFL's vice president of broadcast planning, who Campbell said he has discussed the Lions' primetime TV prospects with.

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What they’re saying

“Based upon my discussions with (NFL vice president of broadcast planning) Mike North, I think so, yeah,”

— Dan Campbell, Head Coach, Detroit Lions

What’s next

The Lions will continue evaluating Sewell's potential move to left tackle during the team's offseason program and training camp leading up to the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Lions' potential position change for Penei Sewell underscores the importance of the left tackle role in the modern NFL and Detroit's desire to remain a marquee primetime TV draw. Sewell's development into an elite left tackle could be a key factor in the team's long-term success and national profile.