The Detroit Lions are already appearing in early 2026 NFL mock drafts, and analysts believe the team could be preparing for life after veteran left tackle Taylor Decker. While Detroit remains focused on the current playoff push, draft experts are looking ahead to the long-term future of the offensive line — and the left tackle position stands out as a major need.

After nearly a decade protecting the blind side, Decker will be approaching his mid-30s by next season, making retirement a realistic topic of discussion. At the same time, former developmental prospect Giovanni Manu has yet to firmly lock down a starting role, increasing pressure on the Lions to find a long-term solution through the draft.

Dane Brugler’s 2026 Mock Draft Links Lions to Kadyn Proctor

In his latest 2026 NFL mock draft, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler projects the Lions selecting 17th overall, a position that suggests Detroit could be viewed as a fringe playoff team rather than a true Super Bowl contender.

With that pick, Brugler has the Lions selecting Alabama left tackle Kadyn Proctor, one of the most physically imposing offensive line prospects in the class. Listed at nearly 360 pounds, Proctor combines elite size with rare movement skills, making him a strong schematic fit in Detroit’s power-based rushing attack.

Lions general manager Brad Holmes has consistently targeted battle-tested SEC prospects, and Proctor fits that trend perfectly. Recent draft picks, including guard Miles Frazier, highlight Detroit’s preference for physical linemen who have excelled against top competition.

Why Kadyn Proctor Makes Sense for the Detroit Lions

Drafting Proctor would address multiple roster needs for Detroit while strengthening the team’s foundation along the offensive line. The Lions have dealt with pass-protection inconsistencies in recent seasons, and long-term uncertainty at left tackle makes this position one of the highest priorities heading into the 2026 draft cycle.

If selected, Proctor would give the Lions:

A future starting left tackle

Immediate depth across the offensive line

Insurance for a potential Taylor Decker retirement

Another cornerstone player for Detroit’s championship window

Holmes has built the Lions through the trenches, and this projection reflects his pattern of valuing offensive line strength over flashy skill-position picks.

Detroit Lions Draft Strategy Focuses on the Offensive Line

The Lions’ identity under head coach Dan Campbell has been shaped by dominant line play. Protecting quarterback Jared Goff and creating running lanes for Jahmyr Gibbs remains the heartbeat of Detroit’s offensive system.

Selecting a physically dominant, athletic lineman like Kadyn Proctor would directly support that vision.

While the Lions’ final draft position will depend on how the season finishes, one thing is clear: Detroit is already being projected to invest heavily in the offensive line, and Kadyn Proctor is emerging as a name closely connected to the franchise in early 2026 mock drafts.