The Detroit Lions strengthened their roster by adding talent and competition during the 2026 NFL Draft. While the new additions improve the team’s overall depth, they also create tougher competition for several players already on the roster.

According to Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit, not every Lions player benefited from the team’s latest draft moves. In fact, a few veterans and young players may now face an uphill battle heading into training camp.

Here are three Lions players Reisman identified as potential “losers” following Detroit’s 2026 draft class.

Giovanni Manu Faces Roster Fight After Blake Miller Pick

The Lions’ first-round selection of offensive tackle Blake Miller could make life difficult for Giovanni Manu.

Manu was previously viewed as a developmental lineman who could eventually grow into a reliable swing tackle. However, Detroit’s investment in Miller—along with the team’s confidence in veteran tackle Larry Borom—has changed the outlook.

Instead of competing for a clear backup role, Manu may now be fighting to secure a spot as the team’s fourth offensive tackle (OT4). Carrying four tackles on the active roster isn’t guaranteed, meaning Manu must prove he deserves a place on the final 53-man roster.

Dominic Lovett Under Pressure After Kendrick Law Drafted

Wide receiver Dominic Lovett enters his second season with little margin for error.

Detroit selected wide receiver Kendrick Law in the fifth round, adding another versatile option to the receiving corps. Law’s ability to contribute on special teams and as a returner could quickly give him an edge.

Reisman noted that Law could compete for roles like gunner on special teams, an area where Lovett has yet to establish himself. After a quiet rookie season, Lovett now faces a legitimate battle to secure a roster spot.

Mekhi Wingo Running Out of Time in Detroit

For defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo, the message from Detroit’s draft moves is clear: this season could determine his future with the team.

Wingo has played just 235 total snaps across two seasons, including only 59 snaps last year. Meanwhile, the Lions added defensive lineman Skyler Gill-Howard, a player with similar traits and upside.

Reisman described the move as direct competition for Wingo’s role. The opportunity is still there, but Wingo must show significant improvement in training camp and preseason to maintain his spot in the defensive line rotation.

Lions Draft Class Creates Real Competition

Every draft class reshapes an NFL roster, and the Lions’ 2026 selections are no different. Detroit’s front office continues to build depth and competition at multiple positions.

As Reisman emphasized, players like Manu, Lovett, and Wingo now face a simple challenge:

 Compete, produce, and prove their value—or risk being replaced on a rapidly improving roster.

For the Detroit Lions, that’s the cost of building a stronger team.