The Lions aren’t waiting for talent to fall—they’re going and getting it. With two aggressive moves, Detroit has already reshaped its trenches and sent a clear message: this team is building to win right now.
Through two picks, the Detroit Lions have wasted no time making a statement in the 2026 NFL Draft. Detroit selected offensive tackle Blake Miller out of Clemson with the 17th overall pick, then aggressively traded up to No. 44 to land Michigan edge rusher Derrick Moore. General manager Brad Holmes is clearly not interested in waiting around, attacking the roster’s two most important needs along the trenches on both sides of the ball.
Miller brings durability and consistency to the offensive line. A former Clemson standout, he started 54 games and set a program record with 3,778 snaps. His size, physicality and experience make him an immediate contender for a starting role, whether that comes at right tackle or elsewhere depending on how the Lions shuffle their offensive front. Detroit has long prioritized building through the trenches, and Miller fits that identity perfectly as a tough, reliable lineman with leadership traits.
The move to trade up for Moore signals equal urgency on defense. The former Michigan edge rusher is known for his physical style, high motor and ability to set the edge in both the run and pass game. Pairing Moore with Aidan Hutchinson gives Detroit a young, explosive pass-rushing duo with shared familiarity, as both developed within Michigan’s defensive system. The Lions notably jumped the Baltimore Ravens in the draft order, preventing a reunion between Moore and his former defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. Baltimore selected a defensive end with the very next pick, reinforcing the idea that Detroit targeted Moore with precision and intent.
Holmes’ early draft strategy reflects a clear philosophy: fix the trenches first, then build depth and competition across the rest of the roster. Both Miller and Moore were team captains in college, further emphasizing Detroit’s focus on adding high-character players who bring leadership and toughness to the locker room.
At the time of this writing, the Lions do not hold a third-round pick, though that could change as Rounds 2 and 3 continue to unfold. Holmes has already shown a willingness to move around the board, so additional trades should not be ruled out. Detroit still holds six remaining selections:
* Round 4, Pick 18 (118 overall)
* Round 5, Pick 17 (157 overall)
* Round 5, Pick 41 (181 overall)
* Round 6, Pick 24 (205 overall)
* Round 6, Pick 32 (213 overall)
* Round 7, Pick 6 (222 overall)
With their most pressing needs addressed early, the Lions are now in position to take a best-player-available approach. However, there are still areas where added depth and competition would be beneficial.
Linebacker remains one such position. With Alex Anzalone no longer in the picture, there is an opportunity for players like Malcolm Rodriguez and Trevor Nowaske to step into larger roles, but the competition is far from settled. Adding another athletic, versatile linebacker could help solidify the unit.
The secondary is another area to watch closely. Injuries played a major role in disrupting Detroit’s defensive backfield last season. Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch both suffered season-ending injuries, leaving uncertainty heading into the new year. While Branch is expected to return sometime midseason after recovering from a torn Achilles, Joseph’s status remains less clear as he works back from a knee injury.
Cornerback could also be a target in the later rounds. DJ Reed and Terrion Arnold both dealt with injuries and inconsistent play. Arnold underwent shoulder surgery following the season, while Reed battled a torn hamstring. Adding depth at the position would not only provide insurance but also create competition in a unit that needs more stability.
Overall, the Lions have approached this draft with aggression and clarity. Holmes has shown he is unafraid to make bold moves to secure players he believes in. By addressing the trenches early and leaving themselves flexibility with the remaining picks, Detroit has positioned itself well for both immediate impact and long-term growth. The rest of the draft will reveal whether the Lions continue to be aggressive or settle into a more patient, value-driven approach—but either way, their intentions are clear.