Detroit Lions Prioritize Offensive Line, Defense in 2026 NFL Draft

Experts predict Lions will target tackle, pass rusher with early picks to address key needs

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:04pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a Detroit Lions football game, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of deep blue, burnt orange, and metallic silver, capturing the dynamic energy of the sport through a cubist artistic style.A cubist interpretation of the Detroit Lions' strategy to strengthen their offensive line and defensive front seven in the 2026 NFL Draft.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Lions enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear focus on strengthening their offensive line and adding playmaking talent on defense, according to a consensus of 72 expert mock drafts. Analysts highlight offensive tackle as the most frequently projected first-round selection for Detroit, emphasizing the need to better protect quarterback Jared Goff and improve the running game. The Lions are also expected to target a defensive end or cornerback early, as they look to upgrade a unit that struggled to generate consistent pressure and coverage last season.

Why it matters

The Lions' draft strategy will be crucial in determining the team's trajectory over the next few seasons. Addressing the offensive line and defensive front seven are seen as priorities to help the team compete in the NFC North and potentially return to the playoffs for the first time since 2023.

The details

Among the expert projections, Dane Brugler of The Athletic released a full seven-round mock draft that has the Lions selecting an offensive tackle with their 24th overall pick, followed by a defensive end in the second round and a wide receiver in the third. Brugler's analysis stresses that Detroit's offensive line has allowed too many pressures in recent seasons, particularly in pass protection, making an upgrade at tackle a priority. The Lions are also open to trading up in the first round if a targeted player becomes available, though general manager Brad Holmes emphasized that any move would depend on value and fit rather than simply chasing a name.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Jared Goff

The Detroit Lions' starting quarterback since 2021.

Brad Holmes

The Detroit Lions' general manager since 2021.

Dane Brugler

An NFL draft analyst for The Athletic.

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What they’re saying

“We must address the offensive line and defensive front seven to help this team compete in the NFC North.”

— Brad Holmes, Detroit Lions General Manager

“Detroit's offensive line has allowed too many pressures in recent seasons, particularly in pass protection, making an upgrade at tackle a priority to better protect Jared Goff and improve the running game.”

— Dane Brugler, NFL Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Lions will continue to evaluate prospects through private workouts, interviews, and film review ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, with a focus on finding players who combine technical skill with toughness and football intelligence.

The takeaway

The Detroit Lions' draft strategy reflects a clear need to strengthen the offensive line and add playmaking talent on defense, as the team looks to build a roster capable of competing in the NFC North and returning to the playoffs. By addressing these key areas, the Lions hope to provide better protection for quarterback Jared Goff and improve a defense that struggled to generate consistent pressure and coverage last season.