The Detroit Lions don’t just build through stars—they win by uncovering late-round gems. In 2026, three under-the-radar tight ends could quietly become the next key pieces in Detroit’s physical, versatile offense.
The Detroit Lions have made a habit of finding value on Day 3 of the NFL Draft under general manager Brad Holmes. With a roster built on physicality, versatility and player development, the tight end position is one area where Detroit could quietly add depth in the later rounds of the 2026 draft. Sam Roush, Tanner Koziol and Dae’Quan Wright each bring unique traits that align with the Lions’ identity and long-term vision.
Sam Roush out of Stanford feels like a natural fit for what Detroit wants to do offensively. At 6-foot-6 and around 265 pounds, Roush is one of the more polished in-line blockers in the class. The Lions’ offense relies heavily on tight ends who can contribute in the run game, particularly in outside zone and gap schemes that demand physicality at the point of attack. Roush excels in that area, consistently showing strong hand placement and the ability to sustain blocks.
While his receiving production in college was modest, there is reason to believe he has untapped upside as a pass catcher. In Detroit, he wouldn’t be asked to immediately carry a large receiving load. Instead, he could develop behind established players while contributing early as a blocker. That type of role has proven valuable in the Lions’ system, where tight ends are expected to do the dirty work. Roush’s floor as a reliable TE2 makes him an appealing late-round option with potential to grow into more.
Tanner Koziol from Utah offers a slightly different skill set that could intrigue the Lions’ coaching staff. Koziol brings a balanced profile, combining solid blocking fundamentals with dependable hands in the passing game. He may not be elite in any one area, but his well-rounded game fits the mold of players Detroit has prioritized in recent drafts.
Koziol’s ability to line up in multiple spots — in-line, in the slot or even as an H-back — adds another layer of versatility. That flexibility is critical in an offense that thrives on pre-snap motion and mismatches. He shows a good feel for finding soft spots in zone coverage and can be a reliable check-down option for the quarterback. For a late-round pick, having a tight end who can contribute in multiple phases increases his chances of sticking on the roster and eventually carving out a consistent role.
Dae’Quan Wright out of Ole Miss might be the most intriguing upside play of the group. Wright flashes as a receiving threat, particularly with the ball in his hands. He has the athleticism to challenge linebackers and create yards after the catch, which could add a different dimension to Detroit’s tight end room.
Wright still needs refinement as a blocker, which is often the case for college tight ends transitioning to the NFL. However, the Lions have shown patience in developing players with traits, and Wright fits that mold. His willingness to compete and improve as a blocker will ultimately determine how quickly he can get on the field, but the tools are there.
In Detroit’s offense, Wright could initially be used in specific packages designed to maximize his strengths as a receiver. Over time, if his blocking improves, he has the potential to become a more complete player. Late in the draft, that kind of upside is worth betting on.
Ultimately, all three tight ends bring something different to the table, but they share the traits Detroit values: toughness, versatility and developmental upside. Whether it’s Roush’s blocking, Koziol’s balance or Wright’s athleticism, each player represents the type of late-round investment that could pay off for the Lions as they continue to build a deep and sustainable roster.