Free Press sports writer Dave Birkett predicts the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, and why the Detroit Lions could grab a prized offensive lineman.

As the first round arrives, here's a final look at the experts' predictions for the Detroit Lions' first-round NFL draft pick.

The Lions go trenches, trenches, and more trenches over the next two days of the 2026 NFL Draft One day of the 2026 NFL Draft is down, and now it’s time for day two. There are still a lot of picks left to be made.

The Detroit Lions are being viewed across the league as a trade-up threat in the 2026 NFL Draft, with reports confirming they’ve already started making calls and targeting offensive tackle early.

After Taylor Decker's departure, the Lions seem to have found a player capable of starting on Day 1. As it stands, the Lions hold one Day Two selection at 50th overall. After being projected to work the phones during day one,

The Detroit Lions have needs all across the defense as they enter the 2026 NFL Draft. Detroit needs to add pass-rush ability opposite Aidan Hutchinson, both inside and on the edge. The Lions also have had attrition along the offensive line and could add depth there early in the weekend.

The Detroit Lions will make pick No. 17 selection of the first round. A full list of the Lions' selections is below and will be updated with pick-by-pick analysis through the weekend. DETROIT -- The 2026 NFL draft has begun in Pittsburgh.

The Detroit Lions enter the 2026 NFL Draft with nine draft selections, starting with pick No. 17 on Thursday in the first round.