football

ESPN picks Detroit Lions' top three NFL draft needs

Yahoo Sports

ESPN shared its picks for the top NFL draft needs for the Detroit Lions.

There's all sorts of thoughts about which direction the Detroit Lions should go with its first-round 2026 NFL draft pick at No. 17 overall. In addition to pick No.

17, the Lions also own one day-two pick with their second-round selection (No. 50 overall). The Lions have seven other day-three picks .

While Detroit really needs to nail its first two picks, the Lions have more needs than just two position groups. ESPN took a stab at the Lions' three biggest needs in the draft : OL, edge, CB. After struggling to adapt to new faces on the line last season and the release of veteran left tackle Taylor Decker , Detroit can benefit from drafting an O-lineman early.

Adding an edge rusher to pair with Pro Bowl player Aidan Hutchinson would also be smart, as Al-Quadin Muhammad signed with Tampa Bay. Plus, the Lions' cornerback room was plagued by injuries the past couple of seasons. - Eric Woodyard, ESPN The Lions drafting an offensive tackle replacement for Taylor Decker has been a popular mock.