Full Breakdown
Detroit Lions Complete 2026 Draft, Adding Seven Players Across Six Positions
4/28/2026, 9:18:22 AM
Draft Philosophy
GM Brad Holmes said the Lions rely on film evaluation, not height-weight-speed metrics. The “HWS” hoodies at the draft symbolized this. Staff targeted toughness, resilience and football IQ to match Coach Dan Campbell’s identity.
Key Selections
OT Blake Miller (Clemson, #17) brings 54 starts, a 9.90 RAS and will compete with Larry Borom. Derrick Moore (Michigan) lacks an RAS after a hamstring injury. Jimmy Rolder (Michigan State) posted a 9.53 RAS. CB Keith Abney II (Arizona State) earned a 6.51 RAS. Kendrick Law (Iowa State) recorded a 9.60 RAS. DTs Skyler Gill-Howard and Tyre West (Texas A&M). West was the HWS “Pick of the Year.”
Official Statements
Holmes praised the three-day evaluation, saying the picks fit Coach Dan Campbell’s criteria. He highlighted Miller’s development and reaffirmed the Lions’ film-driven scouting over raw metrics. Kelvin Sheppard noted the draft adds depth.
Fan Reactions
Fans gave the draft a B+, praising the first two picks but noting the lack of selections. Some warned that later-round prospects like Rolder were off their radar and will face steep competition.
Roster Impact
Draft addresses injuries to starters Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph. Miller will vie for a starting tackle spot; Abney competes for nickel or outside corner roles. The class’s profile fits the Lions’ “tough” brand.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Moore’s testing was unavailable, so his RAS is missing. Branch’s and Joseph’s return timeline is unspecified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We've probably been watching Blake for about 3 years now and he literally has gotten better every single year. That's what makes you really excited about a player like that, that actually has a high floor. I don't see any reason why he won't continue to get better.” — Brad Holmes, General Manager, Detroit Lions
- “It’s just a line through height, weight, speed,” — Brad Holmes, General Manager, Detroit Lions
- “Man, the wait doesn’t even matter, man. I’m just glad to be a Lion. It means everything — great program, great, great culture, great coaches, great, great people around. I’m just blessed to be here. Dropped a couple of tears.” — Keith Abney II, Cornerback, Detroit Lions
- “I’ll give it a grade A for the first two picks. Anything positive from rounds 4-7 is a cherry on top.” — Bishop West, Detroit Lions fan
What's Next
Training camp will decide starting roles for Miller, Abney and Law. The Lions will monitor Branch and Joseph’s recovery and await Terrion Arnold’s legal case.
