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Detroit Lions make unexpected pick in PFT NFL mock draft
TL;DR
The Detroit Lions are projected to select safety Dillon Thieneman from Oregon with the No. 17 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, defying expectations to bolster their offensive line. This unexpected choice raises eyebrows, especially with top tackle Monroe Freeling still available.
Key points
- Lions projected to select Dillon Thieneman at No. 17
- Focus on safety due to injury concerns
- Expected to draft an offensive tackle instead
- Monroe Freeling remains available
- Draft date is April 23, 2026
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Detroit Lions
With the 2026 NFL Draft kicking off on Thursday, April 23 from Pittsburgh, Pro Football Talk's lone 2026 NFL mock draft has Detroit making a move at the No. 17 overall selection that could have many Lions fans scratching their head.
Entering the 2026 NFL Draft, many draft boards and industry experts predict the Lions to address the offensive line, as the franchise looks to add depth at left tackle following the sudden release of Taylor Decker.
However, PFT has the Lions going off that predicted path in their mock draft. PFT forecasts the Lions to select 6-foot, 201-pound safety Dillon Thieneman from Oregon. While safety help is a position that the Lions would like to address, given the uncertainty surrounding the recovery timeline of Kerby Joseph (knee) and Brian Branch (torn Achilles), such a decision would still be eye-opening to many.
Making the situation even more shocking is the fact that PFT projects the Lions taking Thieneman over Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling, who many view as one of the top offensive tackle options that could be available for the Lions in the first round.
While mock drafts are purely made to spark debate from fans and invite intrigue into the thought processes of NFL general managers, PFT's prediction for the Lions' first-rounder may be a bit too far on the wild side to take into serious consideration.
Q&A
Why are the Detroit Lions selecting Dillon Thieneman in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Lions are selecting Dillon Thieneman to address their safety needs, particularly due to concerns about the recovery of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.
What position were the Lions expected to draft in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Many experts expected the Lions to draft an offensive tackle to strengthen their offensive line after the release of Taylor Decker.
Who is Monroe Freeling and why is he significant for the Lions?
Monroe Freeling is a highly regarded offensive tackle from Georgia, considered one of the top options available for the Lions in the first round.
