The Detroit Lions have steadily improved their depth at cornerback over the past few seasons through a combination of draft picks and free-agent signings. Even so, because injuries are common at the position, general manager Brad Holmes will likely continue evaluating cornerbacks if one happens to be the best player available when Detroit is on the clock.
Strength of the 2026 cornerback class
This year’s cornerback group is considered both talented and deep. Several prospects could hear their names called within the top 10 selections, while many others project as potential starters who may still be available well into Day 2. Teams across the league are placing a premium on defensive backs who can move around the secondary and handle multiple responsibilities. This draft class appears to feature a number of intelligent defenders with strong ball skills who can line up either outside or in the slot.
Detroit’s current cornerback depth chart
The Lions currently have several options at the position, including D. J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Rock Ya-Sin, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Roger McCreary, Nick Whiteside and Khalil Dorsey.
Draft priority at cornerback
Cornerback does not appear to be among Detroit’s most pressing needs entering the draft. Still, if a highly rated prospect is available when the Lions pick early, the team would have little reason to pass on the chance to add more talent and competition to a position where they hope to see stronger production in 2026.
That said, the Lions are not in a position where they must select a cornerback to feel confident about the unit. The organization likely feels comfortable with the mix of experience and upside currently on the roster, particularly with players like Rakestraw—assuming he can remain healthy.
Five cornerback prospects who could fit Detroit
1. Mansoor Delane – LSU Tigers football
Height/Weight: 6-0, 187 pounds
40-yard dash: 4.38 seconds
Delane is known for his disciplined play, strong instincts, and advanced football intelligence. Over the past two seasons at Virginia Tech Hokies football and LSU, he recorded 18 pass breakups and six interceptions in 23 starts. His skill set suggests he could step in quickly as an outside starter while also having the versatility to handle slot duties.
2. Jermod McCoy – Tennessee Volunteers football
Height/Weight: 6-1, 188 pounds
40-yard dash: 4.38 seconds
McCoy missed the 2025 season after suffering a torn ACL, but his 2024 performance showcased elite potential. That year he collected four interceptions and broke up 13 passes. Although he still has areas of his coverage technique to refine, his size, athleticism, and speed make him a compelling prospect. He also contributes on special teams as a punt and kick returner.
3. Colton Hood – Tennessee Volunteers football
Height/Weight: 6-0, 193 pounds
40-yard dash: 4.44 seconds
Hood is viewed as one of the more well-rounded cornerbacks in the class. He has demonstrated effectiveness in both man and zone coverage and contributes against the run as well. His versatility allows him to fill several roles within a defensive scheme, and his aggressive style makes him a disruptive presence.
4. Avieon Terrell – Clemson Tigers football
Height/Weight: 5-11, 186 pounds
40-yard dash: 4.64 seconds
Terrell closed out his college career by starting 31 consecutive games. Across his final two seasons, he recorded 23 pass breakups and forced eight fumbles. While his 40-yard dash time may raise concerns for some teams, his on-field performance rarely reflected a lack of speed. Earlier in his athletic career, he posted impressive sprint times in track, including 10.97 seconds in the 100 meters and 22.09 seconds in the 200 meters.
5. Chris Johnson – San Diego State Aztecs football
Height/Weight: 6-0, 193 pounds
40-yard dash: 4.40 seconds
Johnson earned Mountain West Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors after producing 49 tackles, nine pass breakups, and four interceptions—two of which he returned for touchdowns. Opposing quarterbacks completed just 41.9 percent of passes thrown in his direction, highlighting his ability to stay tight in both man and zone coverage.
