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Chris Simms projects Detroit Lions first-round NFL draft pick
TL;DR
Chris Simms predicts the Detroit Lions will select Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor with the No. 17 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Lions aim to fill the left tackle position after releasing Taylor Decker.
Key points
- Chris Simms predicts Lions will select Kadyn Proctor
- Proctor is a 6-foot-7, 352-pound offensive tackle
- Lions have the No. 17 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft
- Lions need to replace released left tackle Taylor Decker
- Proctor is ranked as the No. 2 offensive tackle by NFL.com
Mentioned in this story
NFL.comAlabama
Kadyn ProctorTaylor DeckerDetroit Lions
In the lead-up to the 2026 NFL Draft, NBC Sports' Chris Simms gave his one and only prediction of who he believes will be selected in the first round on April 23, including where the Detroit Lions go after at the No. 17 overall pick.
Along with several draft boards and experts, the general consensus is that the Lions will prioritize an offensive tackle with their lone first-round pick, given the dire need to replace now-released Taylor Decker at the left tackle position next season.
In his April 20 prediction posted on X, Simms has the Lions addressing that need by selecting 6-foot-7, 352-pound Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor at their No. 17 overall draft position.
While there are some mock drafts that predict the Lions trading up to grab their desired draft target, the franchise certainly would not be opposed to Proctor, who is ranked as the No. 2 overall offensive tackle by NFL.com, perfectly falling to them at the No. 17 position.
If Detroit can land Proctor, it would likely be viewed as another successful first-round selection by general manager Brad Holmes and an excellent way to kick off the NFL Draft weekend in the Steel City.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Scout on X: @SpringgateNews
Q&A
Who is Kadyn Proctor and why is he important for the Lions?
Kadyn Proctor is a 6-foot-7, 352-pound offensive tackle from Alabama, projected to be selected by the Lions to address their need for a left tackle after releasing Taylor Decker.
What is the Detroit Lions' draft position in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Detroit Lions hold the No. 17 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
What are the Lions' needs heading into the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Lions are primarily looking to replace their now-released left tackle, Taylor Decker, and are expected to prioritize selecting an offensive tackle.
