Detroit Lions pick Jimmy Rolder, Michigan LB, in Round 4 of NFL draft

The Detroit Lions are adding another Michigan man to their defense.

The Lions took Michigan linebacker Jimmy Rolder with their first pick on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL draft, No. 118 overall in the fourth round.

Rolder is the second straight Michigan player the Lions have drafted, after trading up to take Michigan defensive end Derrick Moore in the second round Friday, April 24. They also start former Michigan pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson at defensive end.

Rolder was a second-team All-Big Ten selection in his first season as starter last year. He had a team-high 73 tackles, including seven for loss, and one interception while primarily as the team's weak-side linebacker.

The Lions were thin at linebacker after letting Alex Anzalone walk in free agency. Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes return as starters, and Malcolm Rodriguez is the leading candidate to win the third linebacker job.

The team also signed Damone Clark in free agency and returns Trevor Nowaske.