Defensive Backs Who Could Rise Up Lions' Draft Board After Combine

Detroit GM Brad Holmes will be watching the cornerback prospects closely at the NFL Combine.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Detroit Lions and general manager Brad Holmes will be closely watching the group of cornerbacks at the NFL Combine this week, as they look to potentially add defensive back talent to their roster. Three prospects - Darren Johnson of San Diego State, Jaylon Ponds of Alabama, and Jalen Jackson of Indiana - are highlighted as players who could rise up the Lions' draft board with strong performances in the Combine testing.

Why it matters

The Lions have a need at cornerback and are looking to add talent to their secondary through the draft. Strong showings by these prospects at the Combine could significantly boost their draft stock and make them more appealing options for the Lions to consider with one of their early picks.

The details

Johnson, Ponds, and Jackson are all viewed as potential mid-round picks, but have the physical tools and athletic ability to potentially rise up draft boards with impressive Combine performances. Johnson was a dominant cover corner at the Group of Five level, while Ponds and Jackson have the speed and versatility to play both on the boundary and in the slot at the NFL level.

  • The NFL Combine is taking place this week in Indianapolis.
  • The cornerback prospects will participate in testing on Friday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Darren Johnson

A dominant cover corner at the Group of Five level for San Diego State, Johnson has the physical traits to potentially impress at the Combine and boost his draft stock.

Jaylon Ponds

The national champion from Alabama is a smaller cornerback prospect, but plays physical and has the versatility to play both on the boundary and in the slot.

Jalen Jackson

The Indiana cornerback is expected to showcase elite speed at the Combine, which could help him overcome some technical issues and develop into an intriguing developmental prospect.

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What’s next

The Lions will be closely evaluating the cornerback prospects at the Combine, and their performances could impact where they are selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Combine is a crucial opportunity for these cornerback prospects to showcase their athleticism and physical abilities, which could significantly boost their draft stock and make them more appealing options for the Lions to consider as they look to upgrade their secondary through the draft.