Championship rosters aren’t just built in Round 1—they’re uncovered in the shadows of Day 3. If Brad Holmes finds another hidden gem, the Lions’ rise might not just continue… it might accelerate.
Finding impact players on Day 3 has become a defining trait of how the Detroit Lions build their roster under general manager Brad Holmes. With limited early-round capital in the 2026 NFL Draft, Detroit will once again need to uncover hidden gems. Here are three late-round prospects who could fit the Lions’ identity, scheme, and long-term vision.
1. Chandler Rivers, CB, Duke
If there’s one thing Detroit values defensively, it’s versatility and competitiveness in the secondary—and Chandler Rivers brings both in abundance. A highly experienced defensive back with over 40 career starts, Rivers has played both outside and in the slot, though he projects best as a nickel corner at the next level.
Rivers thrives on instincts, quickness, and physicality despite being slightly undersized. His ability to mirror receivers and react quickly in short areas would make him an ideal fit in defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s aggressive system. Detroit’s defense leans heavily on defensive backs who can tackle, blitz, and hold up in man coverage—traits Rivers consistently displays.
For a Lions team that has invested heavily in its secondary but still values depth and competition, Rivers could carve out an immediate role on special teams while developing into a reliable slot defender. He fits the culture: tough, smart, and battle-tested.
2. Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma
The Lions have built their identity in the trenches, but you can never have enough interior disruptors. That’s where Gracen Halton comes in. The Oklahoma defensive tackle is one of the more intriguing late-round prospects thanks to his explosiveness and pass-rushing upside.
Halton is slightly undersized for a traditional defensive tackle, but his athleticism jumps off the screen. He posted strong production in college, including multiple seasons with significant tackles for loss and sacks, while also showcasing impressive testing numbers at the combine.
Detroit doesn’t necessarily need Halton to be a full-time starter right away. Instead, he could thrive as a rotational pass rusher alongside the Lions’ established interior players. His quick first step and ability to penetrate gaps would complement Detroit’s attacking defensive front.
This is exactly the type of player Holmes has targeted in the past: high-upside traits, strong motor, and a clear role early on.
3. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State
Late-round receivers often become some of the best value picks in any draft, and Ted Hurst fits that mold perfectly. The Georgia State standout has generated buzz after an impressive pre-draft process, including a strong showing at the Senior Bowl and excellent athletic testing.
At 6-foot-4 with legitimate speed (4.42 forty-yard dash), Hurst offers a rare combination of size and explosiveness. His production—nearly 2,000 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns over two seasons—shows he can be more than just a traits-based prospect.
For Detroit, Hurst would provide developmental upside behind their current receiving corps. He could immediately contribute on special teams while working into a situational deep-threat or red-zone role. Given the depth of the 2026 receiver class, quality players like Hurst could easily slip into Day 3 despite having starter-level upside.
Final Thoughts
The Lions don’t just draft for talent—they draft for fit, culture, and development. Players like Chandler Rivers, Gracen Halton, and Ted Hurst check those boxes. None may be household names on draft night, but that’s exactly the point.
If Detroit hits on even one of these late-round prospects, it could once again be the difference between a good roster and a championship-caliber one.