Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft: Picks by round, biggest needs, best fits

TL;DR

The 2026 NFL Draft starts on April 23 in Pittsburgh, with the Detroit Lions focusing on filling their biggest need: tackle. After releasing Taylor Decker, the Lions may shift Penei Sewell to left tackle and seek a starter for the right side.

Key points

2026 NFL Draft starts on April 23 in Pittsburgh
Detroit Lions' biggest need is at tackle
Taylor Decker was released in March
Penei Sewell may move to left tackle
Lions ranked 31st in pass block win rate last year

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Detroit LionsNFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off live from Pittsburgh on Thursday, April 23 and the latest crop of rookies will be hearing their names called all weekend long. For the Detroit Lions, the biggest need is an obvious one: Tackle.

The Lions released veteran left tackle Taylor Decker in March, and there are rumblings that tackle Penei Sewell might move over to the left side after starring at the position at Oregon. Detroit needs a starter at tackle on the opposite side of wherever Sewell lines up. The Lions ranked 31st in the NFL in pass block win rate last year, per ESPN.

MORE: Biggest need for every team entering 2026 NFL Draft

Here's everything you need to know about the Detroit Lions for this year's draft, including a round-by-round look at picks and a potential trade candidate already on the roster:

Detroit Lions NFL draft best prospect fit: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)

Per USA TODAY's Ayrton Ostly:

Detroit may have to move Penei Sewell to left tackle after parting ways with Taylor Decker. If that pans out, Mauigoa could slot in at right tackle for the Lions. He'd be a fit with his powerful frame and anchor as well as his mauling attitude in run blocking. Ultimately he may be best at guard but he's a perfectly viable tackle option until proven otherwise.

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