Open Positions For 2026 Lions Draft Picks To Steal Starting Jobs

The Detroit Lions enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a competitive roster, but that doesn’t mean their starting lineup is set in stone.

In fact, there are several spots on the roster where a rookie could realistically come in and win a job outright by Week 1.

Right Tackle

The Lions will be in the market for an offensive tackle this April. And they will likely have their fair share of tackles to pick from at No. 17 overall, including Miami (Fla.)’s Francis Mauigoa, Clemson’s Blake Miller, Utah’s Spencer Fano, Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor and Georgia’s Monroe Freeling.

Each of the above linemen are capable of starting immediately, and if drafted, would likely be inserted into Detroit’s Week 1 lineup.

Furthermore, with the addition of Mauigoa, Miller, Fano, Proctor or Freeling, there’s a strong likelihood that All-Pro lineman Penei Sewell would be moved to left tackle. Just like many other pundits, I believe that Dan Campbell’s squad would be in good hands with such an alignment at right and left tackle.

Safety

The safety room also presents opportunity. While there is talent in place with Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, there is legitimate concern about the long-term health of both.

A rookie defensive back with ball skills could be in line for meaningful snaps immediately, particularly if they prove capable of handling both coverage responsibilities and run support in Kelvin Sheppard’s system.

Detroit general manager Brad Holmes would be wise to target a safety this April as insurance for its starting duo of Branch and Joseph.

Will Linebacker

Linebacker – specifically the WILL role – is unsettled. With Alex Anzalone gone, there’s a clear void in a defense that often utilizes three-linebacker sets.

Derrick Barnes has flashed but hasn’t locked down the position, leaving the door open for a rookie to step in and start right away. And even if Barnes claims the starting gig coming out of training camp, his job wouldn’t be safe for long if he struggles.

EDGE

Even after adding Payton Turner and D.J. Wonnum in free agency, the Lions still have a sizable hole at EDGE opposite Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson. And Holmes & Co. could very well address the need at No. 17 overall, selecting Miami (Fla.)’s Akheem Mesidor or Auburn’s Keldric Faulk with the pick.

Mesidor and Faulk are bonafide pass-rushers, and would likely receive snaps over both Turner and Wonnum come Week 1. And at the end of the day, Mesidor and Faulk would each be better running mates for Hutchinson.