Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have shaped the Detroit Lions into a competitive team largely through smart drafting and uncovering value throughout the board. Over the past several years, Detroit has struck gold with later selections such as Amon-Ra St. Brown and Kerby Joseph. Finding contributors outside the early rounds has played a major role in the team’s rise.

Now the Lions may need to repeat that formula. Despite the roster’s strength, there are still a few spots that could use reinforcement. One of those areas is the interior of the defensive line. Even though Tyleik Williams is expected to take on a larger role this season, Detroit lost both D. J. Reader and Roy Lopez, leaving the depth chart thinner than ideal.

Fortunately, Holmes could address that concern later in the draft. Tim Keenan from Alabama Crimson Tide is a prospect who could round out Detroit’s defensive tackle group without requiring a high draft pick.

Detroit already invested heavily in the position during the 2025 draft when it selected Williams in the first round. The move was designed to prepare for the upcoming need along the interior defensive line. While Williams saw limited action as a rookie, he is expected to step into a starting role this year. Still, the Lions may hesitate to spend another early pick on the same position, making additional depth behind Williams and Alim McNeill a priority.

That’s where Keenan could come in. The Alabama defender might not have eye-popping production compared with some prospects in the class, but his physical profile gives him the tools to contribute at the professional level. With a sturdy build and strong base, he’s capable of holding up against blockers on the inside.

Keenan also flashes quickness when firing off the line, allowing him to challenge offensive linemen early in plays. Standing about 6-foot-1 and weighing roughly 327 pounds, he has the versatility to line up as a nose tackle or operate as a 3-technique along the defensive front.

Not everyone is convinced about his long-term upside, however. Some evaluators believe his shorter arms and average athletic traits could limit how dominant he becomes in the NFL. Draft analyst Lance Zierlein has noted that Keenan’s lack of length can make it harder for him to control the point of attack when trying to disengage from blockers.

For Detroit, though, he wouldn’t need to become a star. What the Lions really require is a dependable rotational lineman who can provide snaps and keep the starting unit fresh throughout games. In that role, Keenan could strengthen the team’s interior depth without forcing Holmes to spend significant draft capital.