Detroit Lions 2026 7-Round Mock Draft 1.0

Round 3, Pick 70 (Via Cleveland): Logan Jones, Center, Iowa

After selecting Dunker with their second-round pick, the Lions use the first of their newly acquired selections on another Hawkeye lineman, Logan Jones. Center is arguably Detroit’s biggest need, and Jones can step in and start there right away. Considered a bit undersized at 6’3 and 300 pounds, Jones makes up for it with elite athleticism. He was PFF’s top-rated in the country in 2025, and the only one to rank in the top five in both run and pass blocking. I fully believe Logan Jones will be someone the Lions target in this draft, possibly trading up if Brad Holmes thinks it is the only way to get him.

Round 4, Pick 107: Kyle Louis, Linebacker, Pittsburgh

With the Lions looking likely to lose Alex Anzalone in free agency, they draft his replacement with their other new pick. Kyle Louis, one of my favorite players in the draft, can play all over the field. Louis can line up in the box, the slot, or on the defensive line. Possibly the best coverage LB in the 2026 draft, Louis can make plays everywhere. Earning comparisons to future Hall of Famer Lavonte David, the 5’11, 224-pounder, former Panther may be undersized, but his production doesn’t lie. He finished his career at Pitt with 201 tackles, 10 sacks, and an impressive six interceptions. Sign me up.

Round 4, Pick 118: Rayshaun Benny, Defensive Tackle, Michigan

Lions’ GM Brad Holmes continues his never-ending quest to fortify the trenches. Detroit is already showing heavy interest in Benny. The strong DT is a beast against the run, who uses violent hands and excellent technique to shed blocks. Benny maintains strong gap discipline and is coming off a solid showing at the Senior Bowl. The former Wolverine can play anywhere along the defensive line, and Dan Campbell really values positional versatility. It’s easy to see why the Lions like Rayshaun Benny.

Round 5, Pick 155: Sam Roush, Tight End, Stanford

When researching my mock draft for tight ends, Sam Roush really stood out to me. The 6’5, 260-pounder is a perfect fit in Detroit. With the Lions being expected to use more 13 personnel with new OC Drew Petzing, Roush can earn a substantial role immediately. An excellent run-blocker who also provides another option in the intermediate passing game, Roush could supplant current Lions’ TE2 Brock Wright as early as 2026. His potential as a receiver is limited, but Roush is exactly the type of tight end Detroit needs to complement star Sam LaPorta.

Round 6, Pick 186 (Via Cleveland): Patrick Payton, Edge, LSU

After starting his college career with a bang at Florida State, Patrick Payton hasn’t been the same player since 2023. His tape during his first two years has the look of a first-round pick. That talent is still in there, and Detroit should take a chance on finding it. With the Lions potentially losing edge Al-Quadin Muhammad in free agency, they would be wise to double-dip at the position in the draft. Even if Payton doesn’t regain his former magic and continues to struggle against the run, his ability to get to the quarterback will earn him a situational role in Detroit. 

Round 6, Pick 203 (Via Jacksonville): Tyren Montgomery, Wide Receiver, John Carroll 

The Lions may be moving on from WR Kalif Raymond this offseason. Tyren Montgomery, at 5’11 and 190 pounds, can help fill the void. Montgomery dominated Division III in 2025 with 119 catches, 1528 yards, and a whopping 15 touchdowns. Against much better competition during Senior Bowl week, he continued his success without skipping a beat. Montgomery, who didn’t even start playing football until he was 21, is a fascinating prospect who brings tremendous upside. I think he would be a steal at this pick.

Round 7, Pick 222 (Via Cleveland): Desmond Reid, Running Back, Pittsburgh

Another one of my draft darlings (and another former Panther), Desmond Reid, is an explosive playmaker. Even if the Lions (hopefully) keep David Montgomery, Reid could still become a valuable weapon for Detroit. If he can stay healthy enough to stay on the field, Reid brings game-breaking ability as a runner, receiver, and returner. With 4.38 speed, Reid is a highlight reel waiting to happen. The 5’11, 180-pound back is fragile, but his mere presence on the field is something NFL defenses will have to account for.

What do you think? Who do you think the Lions will draft?  Let me know how you feel about my picks in the comment section below. 

(Note: Picks are subject to change, as the NFL has not yet announced compensatory selections, and trades involving draft picks are pending.)