Lions Draft Analyst Expresses Concern Over Top Prospect

Jeff Risdon shares his reservations about Alabama OL Kadyn Proctor as a potential Lions draft pick.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:51pm

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As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Detroit Lions draft analyst Jeff Risdon has expressed concerns about Alabama offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor, a player commonly linked to the Lions in mock drafts. Risdon believes Proctor may be better suited as a guard than a tackle, citing inconsistencies in his pass protection against 'pedestrian' pass rushers. The analyst would prefer the Lions target Arizona State's Max Iheanachor if they opt for a developmental offensive line prospect.

Why it matters

The Lions' draft strategy will be crucial this year as the team looks to get back on track after a couple of disappointing seasons. Finding long-term solutions at offensive tackle and edge rusher are top priorities, and Risdon's assessment of Proctor could influence the team's decision-making process.

The details

Risdon believes Proctor, despite having 'fantastic tape' at times, struggles with consistency and can be 'beat way too easily by pedestrian pass rushers.' The analyst feels Proctor may be better suited as a guard at the NFL level. If the Lions do target a developmental offensive lineman, Risdon would prefer they select Max Iheanachor out of Arizona State.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner.

The players

Kadyn Proctor

An offensive lineman from the University of Alabama who has been linked to the Detroit Lions in mock drafts.

Max Iheanachor

An offensive lineman from Arizona State University who Risdon believes could be a better fit for the Lions than Proctor.

Jeff Risdon

A draft analyst who has expressed concerns about Kadyn Proctor as a potential Lions draft pick.

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What they’re saying

“To be blunt, I think he's a guard. I think that there are too many instances where he gets beat way too easily by pedestrian pass rushers on film. And that scares the hell out of me.”

— Jeff Risdon, Draft Analyst

“If they come out with a long-term starting tackle and a long-term No. 2 edge to start opposite of Aidan Hutchinson for the next few years, it's going to be really hard to be upset about that.”

— Jeff Risdon, Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Lions will have to carefully evaluate their options at offensive line and edge rusher as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft. Risdon's assessment of Kadyn Proctor could influence the team's decision-making, and they may opt to target a different offensive line prospect like Max Iheanachor if they share Risdon's concerns.

The takeaway

The Lions' draft strategy this year will be crucial as they look to get back on track after a couple of disappointing seasons. Finding long-term solutions at key positions like offensive tackle and edge rusher will be a top priority, and the team will have to carefully weigh the pros and cons of prospects like Kadyn Proctor based on input from analysts like Jeff Risdon.