The 2026 NFL draft is literally hours away, NFL analysts and experts are releasing their final draft projections. When it comes to the Detroit Lions, these predictions keep bringing up one player for the team’s No. 17 selection.
Dan Campbell, Brad Holmes and the Lions have obvious holes to fill in the 2026 draft, and that’s why many projections are pointing to the same player. For one, they need offensive tackle help, and that’s really their biggest roster gap. The Detroit Lions could also use a superstar edge to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, but you know Holmes isn’t interested in that position as much, for whatever reason.
The 2026 NFL draft is set for Thursday, April 23, in Pittsburgh. It airs at 8 p.m. EDT live on ESPN, ABC and the ESPN App. So, who will the Detroit Lions take early on?
Detroit Lions Fill Big Need in Lineup in Last 2026 Mock Drafts
Jordan Reid of ESPN has released his seven-round mock with all 32 teams’ picks in the draft. For the Detroit Lions, he has the team going with a popular name for the No. 17 selection: Monroe Freeling, an offensive tackle out of Georgia.
“All-Pro Penei Sewell’s ability to play both tackle spots gives the Lions options on which offensive tackle they could take to replace released longtime starter Taylor Decker,” Reid notes in the piece. “Freeling isn’t as polished as some of his counterparts in this class, but his upside is through the roof because of his balanced base, length and continued ascension.”
He also says that Freeling reminds him of Kolton Miller early in his career. That’s not a bad thing. “There are rough stretches with Freeling’s hand placement and strike timing, but his range in pass protection and ability to operate in space excite scouts,” Reid adds.
From one draft projection to another, it’s like Deja Vu, and I don’t mean the song. In Rob Rang’s final draft prediction released on Wednesday, April 22, he also has the Lions going with Freeling.
“Sure, All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell can handle the switch to left tackle, but if arguably the best blindside blocker of this class happens to be available, GM Brad Holmes shouldn’t overthink things,” he says.
He adds, “Freeling is only a one-year starter, but his 6-foot-7, 315-pound frame (with 34-inch arms) and impressive lateral agility are traits worth betting on.”
What Makes This Offensive Tackle the Right Fit for the Detroit Lions?
So, what makes Freeling a good fit for the Detroit Lions? For one, it’s simply his position. Let’s be real: The Lions need tackle help. Whoever is available by pick No. 17 at tackle will suit the team’s needs.
But, aside from just his position, Freeling also has the potential to become an elite tackle. He’s only a one-year starter, but he has the physique and God-given talents that would make for a solid NFL player. While the Detroit Lions should also take care of their edge needs in the draft, snagging Freeling is the best move to do first.
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