Were the Detroit Lions Targeting Reuben Bain Jr. in 2026 NFL Draft?

The Detroit Lions may have left the 2026 NFL Draft with a strong class, but new details suggest they were aggressively trying to make something much bigger happen. According to multiple reports , Detroit was not content to sit back and let the board fall. Instead, Brad Holmes and his front office were working the phones, exploring a move up the draft board that could have changed the entire complexion of their haul.

And now, a clear name is emerging as a possible target. Detroit Lions trade-up attempt gains clarity In the days following the draft, word surfaced that the Lions were among the teams attempting to trade up to the No. 13 overall pick, which was ultimately controlled by the Los Angeles Rams.

The interest was real, but the deal never materialized. Reports indicate that offers presented to the Rams were considered underwhelming, and with the draft board thinning quicker than expected, the opportunity slipped away. Dallas eventually jumped into that spot, selecting Ohio State safety Caleb Downs.

Still, the key takeaway is simple. Detroit was hunting. League insiders had already identified the Lions as a potential trade-up team leading into the draft.