Lions 53-man roster projection: Where Detroit stands after NFL Draft
The Detroit Lions only have a handful of open roster spots remaining after choosing seven rookies in the 2026 NFL Draft and adding nine more as UDFAs.
With the 2026 NFL Draft recently wrapped up and mandatory minicamp more than a month away, the Detroit Lions still have time to put the finishing touches on their roster. The unit, presently comprised of 87 players, includes 34 newcomers who were not with the Lions last season. Much can change between now and Detroit's season opener in September.
But in the interest of providing a look at where the Lions stand heading into the 2026 campaign, here's a predication of what their 53-man roster could look like coming out of training camp in a few months. We won't dive into the practice squad here, but that section of the team will allow for up to another 16 players to remain in Allen Park. Players added through free agency this offseason (not retentions) have their names italicized.
The same is true for Detroit's rookies, and the college program they most recently played for will be in parentheses. Quarterback (2) ā¶ Starter: Jared Goff ā¶ Reserve: Teddy Bridgewater ā¶ Other options: Luke Altmyer (Illinois) Goff, who ranks first in the NFL in passing yards (13,768) and touchdowns (101) since 2023, is entering his sixth season with the Lions, officially surpassing the five years he spent with the Los Angeles Rams (2016-20). Back for a third time as Goff's backup is Bridgewater, a highly respected veteran.
The Lions agreed to terms with Altmyer, 23, quickly after the draft's conclusion. He was 24-12 as a starter at Illinois. As a team captain in 2025, Altmyer completed 67.
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