Mel Kiper: Penei Sewell's future could depend on who Lions draft

ESPN analyst says Detroit should be open to moving Sewell to left tackle depending on 2026 NFL Draft picks.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 9:03am

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ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. said the Detroit Lions should be open to moving star right tackle Penei Sewell to left tackle, depending on who they select in the 2026 NFL Draft. Kiper noted that the draft class is deep with offensive line talent, and the Lions' choice at No. 17 overall could determine where Sewell plays next season.

Why it matters

The Lions have several holes to fill on their offensive line after releasing longtime starters Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow this offseason. Sewell has been an All-Pro right tackle, but the team may need to shift him to left tackle if they don't find the right replacement for Decker. Kiper's comments suggest the Lions have flexibility with Sewell's position depending on their draft strategy.

The details

Kiper said he does not see scenarios where top offensive tackle prospects Francis Mauigoa of Miami or Spencer Fano of Utah fall to the Lions at No. 17 overall. However, the team could have their choice of the second tier of tackle prospects, including Clemson's Blake Miller, Alabama's Kadyn Proctor, and others. Kiper said the Lions' preference at left tackle could determine whether they keep Sewell on the right side or move him to the left.

  • On March 19, 2026, Mel Kiper Jr. made his comments about Penei Sewell's future during a conference call.

The players

Penei Sewell

A three-time All-Pro right tackle for the Detroit Lions who may be moved to left tackle depending on the team's 2026 NFL Draft selections.

Mel Kiper Jr.

An ESPN NFL draft analyst who provided commentary on the Lions' offensive line situation and Penei Sewell's potential position change.

Taylor Decker

A longtime starting left tackle for the Detroit Lions who was released this offseason in a cost-cutting move.

Graham Glasgow

A longtime starting guard for the Detroit Lions who was also released this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“You obviously don't fix what isn't broken, right? I think he's a great player, but again, you have to adjust to what you have.”

— Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN NFL Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Lions will have to evaluate their options at offensive tackle in the 2026 NFL Draft and determine if they want to keep Penei Sewell at right tackle or move him to left tackle to replace the departed Taylor Decker.

The takeaway

The Lions have a difficult decision to make regarding Penei Sewell's position, as they must balance keeping their star right tackle in his best spot versus potentially needing to shift him to left tackle if they don't find the right replacement in the draft. Kiper's comments suggest the team has flexibility, but also highlight the importance of their first-round pick in shaping the offensive line's future.