Defense dominated early, but the offense wasn’t ignored. In Part II of my Detroit Lions 7-round mock draft, Detroit adds linebackers, a tight end, and a running back to build depth and plan for the future.
Part II of my Adam Stark Mock Draft 5.0 shifts toward offense, as I don’t believe the Detroit Lions will completely ignore that side of the ball. However, it’s clear Detroit has already upgraded the offensive line significantly and filled depth needs at wide receiver and running back with the signings of Greg Dortch and Isiah Pacheco. Out of the next five picks in this mock, I still doubled down at linebacker and added another cornerback, continuing to build defensive depth while adding a few offensive pieces.
Round 5: Kaleb Elams-Orr, LB, TCU
Kaleb Elams-Orr was extremely productive and athletic at TCU, finishing with an 82.5 overall PFF grade, including an 87.8 run-defense grade and a 72.7 coverage grade. He recorded four sacks, 82 solo tackles (20th out of 804 defenders), 25 pressures (15th), and played 831 total snaps, the 11th most at the position.
At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, the senior tested extremely well at the combine. He ran a 4.47 40-yard dash with a 1.59 10-yard split, posted a 40-inch vertical and a 10-foot-4 broad jump. His testing numbers made him one of the most athletic linebackers in the 2026 draft class, often ranked just behind top testers like Sonny Styles. During the 2025 season, he recorded 130 total tackles and 11 tackles for loss for TCU. He primarily plays outside linebacker and could eventually become a replacement for Alex Anzalone.
Round 5: Trey Moore, LB, Texas
A surprise double down at linebacker continues here. Detroit already has its star linebacker in Jack Campbell, but adding depth and pass-rush versatility at the position makes sense.
Trey Moore finished his college career with 46 starts between UTSA and Texas and was highly productive in multiple defensive categories. He is a smart pass rusher who uses his hands well and can counter offensive tackles with inside and outside spin moves. His secondary pass-rush effort is one of his strengths and often leads to cleanup sacks and pressures.
Moore has also shown flashes of being able to play off-ball linebacker, with adequate athleticism when dropping into coverage and the ability to pursue plays to the sideline while maintaining good leverage. However, he lacks elite burst off the edge and doesn’t always show consistent power when shedding blocks. His change-of-direction and open-field speed are average, and he is still developing his instincts when playing off the ball. Overall, he projects as a versatile depth linebacker who can contribute as a pass rusher and special teams player early in his career.
Round 6: Dae’Quan Wright, TE, Ole Miss
With Sam LaPorta coming off a back injury and eventually due for a new contract, Detroit may have to make some difficult financial decisions in the future. Dae’Quan Wright could develop into a solid replacement option if he reaches his potential.
Wright earned a 68.1 overall PFF grade in 2025, ranking 54th among tight ends, but his receiving grade of 78.7 ranked 14th at the position. He caught 34 passes on 49 targets for 553 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 16.3 yards per reception. He generated 372 yards after the catch, showing his ability to create plays once the ball is in his hands. He only had one drop on the season and had an average depth of target of 7.2 yards, showing he was used in multiple areas of the passing game. Wright would likely begin as a TE2 with upside to develop into a bigger role.
Round 7: Roman Hemby, RB, Indiana
Roman Hemby broke into the spotlight at Indiana with his physical running style and ability to absorb contact and break tackles. He posted an 82.6 overall PFF grade in 2025, including an 84 rushing grade and a 69.3 receiving grade. He carried the ball 163 times for 864 yards and six rushing touchdowns. In the passing game, he had 14 targets and 13 receptions and forced 41 missed tackles overall. Hemby could develop into a solid rotational running back.
Round 7: Jadon Canady, CB, Oregon
The final pick in this mock draft is another defensive player. Jadon Canady is more of a late-round dart throw but could develop into a solid depth corner. He posted an 84.7 overall PFF grade, ranking 30th out of 897 cornerbacks, along with an 87 coverage grade, ranking 19th. He recorded two interceptions, allowed just 17 receptions, and held opposing quarterbacks to a 41.8 passer rating when targeted. He also had four pass breakups while playing 492 snaps.
Overall
This draft focused heavily on defense. I don’t necessarily think this is exactly how the Lions will draft, but with how good the offense already is, continuing to build a dominant defense could be the key to winning a championship. Looking at teams like Seattle during their championship years, elite defense still plays a major role in winning Super Bowls, and this mock draft reflects that philosophy.
