The Detroit Lions once again sparked debate among fans after their selections on Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft. Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller and Michigan edge rusher Derrick Moore both project as potential starters, but many analysts believe Detroit selected the duo slightly earlier than their projected draft value.

However, the Lions appeared to find better value on Day 3 of the draft. Detroit added offensive weapon Kendrick Law in the fifth round while focusing heavily on defense with linebacker Jimmy Rolder in the fourth round, cornerback Keith Abney II in the fifth round, and defensive lineman Tyre West in the seventh round.

Those selections immediately create competition for several veterans already on the roster. Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, defensive back Roger McCreary, and edge rusher Payton Turner could all find themselves battling to keep their roster spots as Detroit reshapes its depth chart.

Day 3 Picks Could Shake Up Lions Depth Chart

Abney could end up being one of Detroit’s biggest steals in the entire draft. Many draft observers expected him to be selected as early as the second round, making his Day 3 availability a surprise.

With McCreary entering the season on a short-term contract after an unsuccessful stint with the Los Angeles Rams, Abney has a realistic opportunity to compete for the nickel corner role. He may also challenge former second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr., who has struggled with injuries.

Rolder also brings immediate competition at linebacker. While there are questions about his pass coverage ability, he is widely regarded as a highly instinctive run defender who thrives between the tackles. That skill set could create pressure on Rodriguez as Detroit evaluates its long-term options at linebacker.

Meanwhile, West provides depth on the defensive line with his physical run defense and intriguing pass-rush potential. With Turner missing the entire 2025 season due to injury, his roster spot could become less secure than originally expected.

Under general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions have built a reputation for identifying immediate contributors in the draft. If Detroit’s late-round picks develop into productive role players, several established veterans could find themselves fighting to remain on the final 53-man roster.

Detroit Lions’ Day 3 Draft Steals Could Put Multiple Veterans on the Roster Bubble

The Detroit Lions created mixed reactions after their first-round strategy in the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Clemson tackle Blake Miller and trading up for Michigan edge rusher Derrick Moore. While both players have starter potential, critics questioned whether Detroit reached slightly for each prospect.

But the real value for Detroit may have come later in the draft.

The Lions added wide receiver Kendrick Law in the fifth round before reinforcing the defense with linebacker Jimmy Rolder, cornerback Keith Abney II, and defensive lineman Tyre West.

Those additions could significantly reshape Detroit’s defensive depth chart. Veterans such as Malcolm Rodriguez, Roger McCreary, and Payton Turner may now face serious competition for roster spots entering training camp.

Abney, in particular, stands out as a potential steal after sliding to Day 3 despite being projected by many analysts as a second-round talent. With McCreary on a short-term deal following his time with the Los Angeles Rams, Abney could quickly push for the nickel corner position.

Rolder’s instincts as a run defender may also challenge Rodriguez for snaps, while West’s versatility along the defensive line could threaten Turner’s place on the roster after his injury-plagued 2025 season.

If general manager Brad Holmes continues his track record of finding contributors late in the draft, Detroit’s Day 3 selections could become some of the most important additions to the roster this offseason.