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Dane Brugler has released a full 7-round NFL mock draft for the Detroit Lions ahead of the 2026 NFL draft. His top pick for the Lions is Monroe Freeling, an offensive tackle from Georgia, selected at No. 17 overall.
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Note: Owen Heinecke, who Dane Brugler mocked to the Lions in the sixth round, was granted an injunction to play another season of college football
Mock drafts for the season are starting to wrap up as we are less than a week away from the start of the 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh. Most mock drafts will be a couple of rounds, but Dane Brugler of The Athletic always goes the distance after he releases his draft guide, properly titled "The Beast."
Brugler projected all 257 picks and all seven rounds and we'll take a quick look at those picks here, with his analysis for the Lions' top pick at No. 17 overall and his one-liner takeaways for each player after.
Dane's pick analysis:
Though heās inexperienced in areas, Freeling is an ascending player with above-average size and athletic traits. The Lions haveĀ short-term options opposite Penei Sewell, but Freeling has the talent to earn his way onto the field at some point during his rookie season.
Dane's takeaway on Freeling:
Freeling is still very young in several areas, but the future looks bright ā his athletic toolbox and technical confidence continue to develop with each rep (heās similar in ways to Kolton Miller as a prospect). Although bumps in the road should be expected, Freeling can secure a starting job as an NFL rookie.
Monroe Freeling, an offensive tackle from Georgia, is projected as the Lions' first-round pick at No. 17.
Dane Brugler is known for projecting all 257 picks across all seven rounds in his mock drafts, unlike most that cover only a couple of rounds.
The 2026 NFL draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh, less than a week from now.
Owen Heinecke, who was mocked to the Lions in the sixth round, received an injunction to play another season of college football.

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Dane's takeaway:
Ponds is undersized (which will be a deal-breaker for some), but he compensates with top-tier speed, instincts and competitive toughness that is ingrained in his DNA. His play style makes it hard to bet against him becoming an inside-outside NFL starter.
Dane's takeaway:
Thomas is a passionate competitor, which can lead to missteps but will also put him in position to play fast and make plays. He has the floor of a special-teamer and the potential to earn a starting role.
Dane's takeaway:
Curry is a sawed-off, face-up pass rusher with a basic approach, but he plays alert and physical, and affects the game with his white-hot motor (his best attribute). He projects as a versatile NFL backup who can be moved up and down the line of scrimmage āĀ reminiscent of John Simon, another former Ohio State edge defender.
Dane's takeaway:
Halton is sawed off and can be overwhelmed at times, but he moves with big-man twitch and his initial quickness and closing speed can be weaponized. A part-time role that keeps his battery charged will be his best NFL fit.
Dane's takeaway:
Bentley needs to become a more disciplined blocker to be trusted on a pro field, but his size-speed traits and pass-catching talent are potential assets for an NFL team.
Dane's takeaway:
Smith doesnāt offer much beyond being a space-eater in the run game. That said, a girthy nose with heavy hands to neutralize at contact doesnāt go out of style for most schemes.
Dane's takeaway:
Heinecke is undersized and still developing in key areas, but he hasnāt lost his walk-on mentality and has what it takes to become an NFL linebacker and special-teamer. He has yet to play his best football, and in the right situation he could reach his potential.
Dane's takeaway:
Douglas needs to play with more consistent ball skills and underneath separation, but he can stride out and be a vertical threat on runway routes. His game is reminiscent of a diet version of Dontayvion Wicks.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Dane Brugler shares full Detroit Lions 7-round NFL mock draft