Detroit Lions NFL Draft 2026: Best Available Day 3 Targets Include Kyle Louis, Jalon Kilgore
The Detroit Lions enter the final day of the 2026 NFL Draft with significant flexibility and six remaining selections to strengthen their roster.
Holding picks No. 118 (Round 4), No. 157 and 181 (Round 5), No. 205 and 213 (Round 6), and No. 222 (Round 7), general manager Brad Holmes has the draft capital to either add depth or make aggressive moves up the board.
“I know we still have a lot of picks tomorrow,” Holmes said. “But I still feel like we have enough ammo to still make a little bit of hay tomorrow as well.”
With several intriguing prospects still available, here are the best fits for Detroit heading into Day 3.
Top Detroit Lions Day 3 Targets in 2026 NFL Draft
Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh
Kyle Louis stands out as one of the most versatile defenders remaining. A hybrid linebacker/defensive back, he excels in pass coverage and can operate in a big nickel role.
Recorded 50 pressures over the last two seasons
Strong instincts and blitzing ability
Potential replacement for Alex Anzalone
Louis fits perfectly with Detroit’s defensive flexibility and could carve out an immediate role.
Jalon Kilgore, S, South Carolina
Jalon Kilgore offers elite athleticism and positional versatility as a safety/nickel hybrid.
Eight career interceptions
Physical in run support
High-upside developmental prospect
Kilgore’s ability to move around the secondary makes him a strong scheme fit for the Lions’ defense.
Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State
If Detroit looks to double down on pass rush, Dani Dennis-Sutton brings elite traits.
Back-to-back 8.5-sack seasons
Outstanding combine testing
High ceiling with room to develop
He could become a rotational edge rusher early with long-term starting potential.
Keionte Scott, DB, Miami
A true nickel defender, Keionte Scott plays with aggression and speed.
Reported 4.33 speed
Strong blitzer and run defender
Immediate impact potential in the slot
Scott’s versatility could give Detroit a plug-and-play contributor.
Keyshaun Elliott, LB, Arizona State
Elliott brings size, instincts, and strong football character.
Effective run defender
Needs development in coverage
High-value Day 3 option
He fits the Lions’ culture and could outperform his draft position.
Kaleb Elarms-Orr, LB, TCU
One of the more athletic linebackers available, Elarms-Orr offers range and speed.
Explosive sideline-to-sideline ability
High motor and pursuit skills
Developmental upside with starter potential
Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma
Halton provides interior pass-rush juice as a three-technique defensive tackle.
Quick, disruptive interior presence
Ideal for passing downs
Limited length may impact run defense
Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State
Abney is an undersized but competitive corner with versatility.
Can play inside and outside
Strong instincts and toughness
Developmental starter potential
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
McCoy carries first-round talent but comes with injury concerns.
Missed 2025 season (ACL injury)
Pre-injury top-10 potential
High-risk, high-reward selection
Harold Perkins, LB, LSU
Once viewed as a first-round prospect, Perkins’ stock dropped due to injury and role changes.
Elite athletic traits
Undersized for edge, still developing at LB
Could thrive in the right system
Other Notable Fits for Detroit Lions
Kaytron Allen (RB, Penn State): Powerful runner with rotational upside
Bryce Boettcher (LB, Oregon): Special teams contributor with defensive depth value
Dallen Bentley (TE, Utah): Athletic receiving tight end
Charles Demmings (CB, Stephen F. Austin): Developmental outside corner
Ephesians Prysock (CB, Washington): Rare size-speed combination
Max Llewellyn (EDGE, Iowa): Situational pass rusher
Final Thoughts
With multiple picks remaining, the Detroit Lions are well-positioned to find value on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft. Players like Kyle Louis and Jalon Kilgore offer the versatility and upside that fit Detroit’s defensive identity, while prospects like Dani Dennis-Sutton provide long-term impact potential.
Don’t be surprised if Brad Holmes packages picks to move up—because if history has shown anything, the Lions aren’t afraid to be aggressive when they see “their guy.”
