Detroit Lions Eye 5 Cornerback Prospects for 2026 NFL Draft

Tim Twentyman previews the top cornerback talents that could interest the Lions in the upcoming draft.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 4:30pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric representation of defensive players in a secondary formation, using bold colors to convey the dynamic nature of the position.The 2026 NFL Draft offers the Detroit Lions a chance to add depth and versatility to their secondary through a talented cornerback class.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Lions have built good depth at the cornerback position in recent years, but with the injury-prone nature of the position, GM Brad Holmes will likely have an eye on adding more talent through the 2026 NFL Draft. This year's cornerback class is considered strong in both top-end talent and depth, providing the Lions options to find a starter or quality depth player. Twentyman highlights five cornerbacks that could be of interest to the Lions, including Mansoor Delane, Jermod McCoy, Colton Hood, Avieon Terrell, and Chris Johnson.

Why it matters

The Lions have made improving their secondary a priority, and cornerback is a key position of need. With several starters and depth pieces already in place, the team can be selective in the draft and target the best available talent to upgrade the position. Adding a high-upside cornerback could pay dividends for the Lions' defense in 2026 and beyond.

The details

The Lions have built good depth at cornerback through the draft and free agency in recent seasons, with players like D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Rock Ya-Sin, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. expected to compete for starting roles. However, the team is always looking to add more talent and competition to the position. This year's cornerback class is considered strong, with potential first-round talents as well as quality depth options that could be available on Day 2 of the draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Mansoor Delane

A disciplined cornerback from LSU with great instincts, a high football IQ, and excellent ball skills, recording 18 passes defended and 6 interceptions over the last two seasons.

Jermod McCoy

A cornerback from Tennessee who missed the 2025 season due to a torn ACL, but had an impressive 2024 campaign with 4 interceptions and 13 passes defended.

Colton Hood

A complete cornerback from Tennessee who excels in both man and zone coverage, and can contribute in the run game as well.

Avieon Terrell

A physical cornerback from Clemson who started 31 straight games and recorded 23 passes defended and 8 forced fumbles over his last two seasons.

Chris Johnson

The Mountain West Co-Defensive Player of the Year from San Diego State, who recorded 49 tackles, 9 passes defended, and 4 interceptions in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Cornerback class draft strength:Talent and depth. There is top-end talent that could come off the board in the top 10 picks and depth that could provide starting caliber players well into Day 2 of the draft.”

— Tim Twentyman, Detroit Lions Writer

What’s next

The Lions will continue to evaluate the top cornerback prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, with the goal of adding talent and competition to an already solid secondary.

The takeaway

The Lions have the luxury of not needing to force a cornerback selection, but the depth and talent of this year's class could present an opportunity to upgrade the position and provide long-term stability in the secondary.