Detroit Lions stand pat, address key need in Daniel Jeremiah mock draft

With the start of the 2026 NFL Draft just hours away, NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah issued his final mock draft, which had the Detroit Lions standing firm at their No. 17 spot and selecting a potential immediate starter to a position of need with their first-round pick.

Per Jeremiah, the Lions are projected to draft Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling, who will instantly fill the void at left tackle created by the recent release of Taylor Decker. He also mentioned that the Lions would avoid the temptation of trading up in the draft to secure an offensive tackle, as he believes the Lions will have plenty of options to choose from at No. 17.

There’s a widespread expectation that the Lions will draft an offensive tackle in Round 1. They could be tempted to trade up for one, but I expect them to have options even if they stand pat. Freeling is ultra athletic and could give the Lions the opportunity to keep Penei Sewell at right tackle, if they so choose.

With the offensive line being a top priority for the Honolulu Blue, Freeling falling to them at No. 17 would certainly be quite an exciting way to kick off a potentially fruitful weekend from the Steel City.

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