Shocking New Names Could Change the Lions' 2026 NFL Draft - Are You Ready for the Upset?

As the Super Bowl approaches, anticipation builds not just for the game itself, but also for what lies ahead in the NFL Draft. For the Detroit Lions, the draft is a pivotal moment, particularly as they prepare to make key selections that could shape the future of the team. This week’s mock draft roundup presents familiar names as analysts continue to project potential picks for the Lions.

It's worth noting that many of the names mentioned in last week's mock drafts have appeared repeatedly, indicating specific players are standing out. The two notable absentees this week are Utah linemen Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu, both of whom have garnered attention in previous weeks.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular prospects linked to the Lions:

Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Mocked by: The Draft Network

Monroe Freeling, the standout offensive tackle from Georgia, has now appeared in back-to-back mock drafts. His performance in the SEC has caught the eye of Lions' General Manager Brad Holmes, known for his affinity for Georgia prospects. At 6-foot-7 and 315 pounds, Freeling was a full-time left tackle last season and demonstrated exceptional pass protection, allowing only two sacks on 469 pass-blocking snaps, earning him acclaim as Pro Football Focus’s ninth-best pass-blocking offensive tackle. With the uncertainty surrounding Taylor Decker’s potential retirement, Freeling could be a strategic choice to bolster the Lions' offensive line.

Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
Mocked by: RotoBaller, USA Today

Kadyn Proctor, at 6-foot-7 and over 360 pounds, is another prospect consistently linked to the Lions. After allowing 12 sacks as a freshman, he dramatically improved last season, surrendering just two sacks over nearly 1,000 snaps. Proctor has played exclusively at left tackle in college, but with the versatility to potentially shift to the right side, he provides the Lions with options, especially if they want to keep Penei Sewell at right tackle.

Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Mocked by: Draftwire, NFL.com’s Eric Edholm

While some analysts project a cornerback like Avieon Terrell for the Lions’ first-round pick, there are doubts about this direction. The Lions already have some depth in their secondary, with players like Terrion Arnold and DJ Reed under contract. Additionally, concerns about injuries to safety Brian Branch could prompt a different focus. Terrell, who has experience across the secondary and excels at run-stopping, adds versatility, but the need for offensive line reinforcement may take precedence.

Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri
Mocked by: NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein

Zion Young has emerged as a new name in this week’s mock drafts. Described by Zierlein as a “bully deluxe,” Young recorded 6.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss last season. With his size and high energy, he fits the mold of players Holmes has previously targeted, making him an intriguing option for the Lions.

Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami (Fl.)
Mocked by: PFF’s Trevor Sikkema

Mesidor, a six-year college player, had a breakout season in 2025 with 12.5 sacks and a 20.8% pass-rush win rate, ranking as one of the top edge rushers in the draft. His ability to provide a powerful presence opposite Aidan Hutchinson could enhance the Lions' defensive effectiveness.

Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
Mocked by: ESPN’s Matt Miller, Dallas Morning News

Faulk offers intriguing versatility with his size and strong pass-rushing technique, although his production dipped last season. Rated as one of the top prospects, he could add depth to the Lions’ defensive line.

Peter Woods, DL, Clemson
Mocked by: Bleacher Report, Pro Football Network

Woods, who played across the defensive line, boasts a 10.1% run-stop rate. Although the Lions recently invested in an interior defender, his talent may warrant consideration if he falls to the 17th overall pick.

As the NFL Draft approaches, the Lions have critical decisions to make. While many analysts suggest bolstering their offensive line is a priority, other positions, including edge rusher and cornerback, may also require attention. The coming weeks will reveal how the Lions prioritize their needs, particularly following the scouting combine, where player evaluations often shift significantly.