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Lions Draft CB Keith Abney II in Fifth Round

4/26/2026

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Summary

Keith Abney Drafted

Detroit Lions drafted cornerback Keith Abney II with the No. 157 pick in the fifth round on April 25 2026.
He allowed a 44.4% completion rate when targeted in 2025, recorded two interceptions that season and earned an 86.3 grade from Pro Football Focus.
He will compete for a nickelback spot behind Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed, a decision that analysts who projected him in the second or third round graded a B.

Summary

Lions Sign McCreary

The Lions signed veteran cornerback Roger McCreary in free agency as a top contender for the nickel role.
Amik Robertson left in free agency, leaving Detroit without a clear successor at nickel corner.
Injuries have limited backup Rakestraw Jr., weakening his chance to secure a starting spot.
Detroit’s roster strategy values versatility, viewing Abney as a depth player who can inject energy.

History

Historical Context

The Lions’ 2022 campaign, their first winning record (9-8) since 2017 under head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes, showed the value of late-round picks like 1997 fourth-rounder Matt Russell. Building on that trend, the 2026 draft of fifth-rounder Keith Abney II and the free-agent signing of cornerback Roger McCreary echo the team’s decade-long shift toward versatile defensive depth.

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Keith Abney Drafted

Detroit Lions drafted cornerback Keith Abney II with the No. 157 pick in the fifth round on April 25 2026.
He allowed a 44.4% completion rate when targeted in 2025, recorded two interceptions that season and earned an 86.3 grade from Pro Football Focus.
He will compete for a nickelback spot behind Terrion Arnold and D.J. Reed, a decision that analysts who projected him in the second or third round graded a B.

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