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Detroit Lions Sending Signals of a Trade Up in 2026 NFL Draft
TL;DR
The Detroit Lions are considering trading up in the 2026 NFL Draft to secure key players, particularly to strengthen their offensive line and edge-rushing positions. General manager Brad Holmes has expressed willingness to trade for the right prospect.
The Detroit Lions know who they are and what they want to improve on. After parting with their Pro Bowl left tackle, Taylor Decker, it’s safe to say the Lions need to beef up the trenches, which is something head coach Dan Campbell would surely agree with, even if general manager Brad Holmes doesn’t admit it.
Yet, offensive tackle isn’t the only area where the Lions could use an upgrade. With several edge-rusher prospects projected to land in the top 15 selections, Detroit may feel compelled to move up for an impact player who can take attention away from Aidan Hutchinson. However, the Lions have surprised us before by targeting positions that didn’t appear to be a need until they secured a clear potential upgrade, like with Jahmyr Gibbs.
The Lions’ GM has been making his usual rounds lately, and he’s been revealing some fascinating tidbits about the team’s mindset heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.
According to Holmes, the Lions would “absolutely” trade up for the right prospect in the first round.
“Absolutely. Yeah, if it’s the right guy. You guys know me. I feel like you guys get mad at me sometimes, I do it too much sometimes. But, no, if we have that kind of conviction for a player, absolutely. We’re going to go and get him,” Holmes said.
Detroit holds the 17th overall pick in the first round, but they have just one other selection in the top 117 picks (No. 50). That could mean dipping into their 2027 draft capital to get the prospect they covet. The Lions have nine selections this year, but seven of them fall between Rounds 4-7, and they do not have a third-round pick after trading up for Isaac TeSlaa in 2025.
Related: Detroit Lions Cast Doubt on Expected 2026 NFL Draft Plans
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Q&A
What positions are the Detroit Lions looking to improve in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Lions are focusing on strengthening their offensive line and edge-rushing positions.
Who is the general manager of the Detroit Lions and what did he say about trading up in the draft?
General manager Brad Holmes stated that the Lions would 'absolutely' trade up for the right prospect in the first round.
Why did the Detroit Lions part ways with Pro Bowl left tackle Taylor Decker?
The article suggests that the Lions need to improve their offensive line after parting with Decker, indicating a shift in their strategy.
