Mock Draft Roundup: Lions Target Cornerback Help at No. 17 in 2026 NFL Draft
Detroit Lions mock drafts are zeroing in on cornerback help with the No. 17 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
It’s time for the sixth edition of the Detroit Lions OnSI mock draft roundup for the 2026 NFL Draft, and one trend is becoming clear: analysts believe Detroit will focus on upgrading its cornerbacks room in the first round.
Over the past week, multiple draft experts have projected the Lions to select a defensive back at No. 17 overall, signaling a growing belief that Brad Holmes will prioritize secondary help after the team’s defensive struggles in 2025.
Here’s a look at the players currently being mocked to Detroit and what analysts are saying about each prospect.
CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Delane is currently being mocked to the Lions by several draft analysts.
As Renner explains:
“Mansoor Delane was the best man-coverage corner in college football this fall, and the Lions are one of the most man-heavy defenses in the NFL. While Detroit has young corners like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw, neither has yet proven himself as a long-term solution.”
CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina
Cisse is another popular projection for Detroit.
Wilson writes:
“Cisse is a versatile corner who can lock down receivers in press-man coverage and showcases elite athleticism. His explosive closing speed and elite change-of-direction ability make him dangerous both in coverage and against the run. He’s one of the best run-defending cornerbacks in this draft class.”
DT Peter Woods, Clemson
Some analysts believe Detroit could still prioritize the defensive interior.
Infante notes:
“Few expected the level of regression the Lions experienced in 2025. While they added Tyleik Williams last year, the defensive line still needs long-term answers. That was one reason they missed the playoffs.”
Woods is described as an explosive defensive tackle with refined hands, high football IQ, and strong two-gap ability against the run, while also providing interior pass rush value.
IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Ioane has emerged as a surprise first-round candidate for Detroit.
Silva writes:
“Brad Holmes has never been afraid to ignore positional value, drafting a running back and linebacker in Round 1 in 2023. Ioane (6-foot-4, 336 pounds) is viewed as the top interior offensive lineman in this class and allowed only four pressures in 2025, per PFF. There will be a spot for him regardless of how the offensive line shakes out.”
EDGE Zion Young, Missouri
EDGE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
EDGE Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Pass rush help remains on the table for Detroit.
Miller explains regarding Faulk:
“The Lions have often been projected to take pass rushers to draw attention away from Aidan Hutchinson. Faulk’s size (6-foot-6, 285 pounds) and inside-outside versatility would give Detroit another disruptive option. His sack numbers dipped in 2025, but many evaluators still see him as an ideal hybrid defensive lineman.”
OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
Freeling is viewed as a potential long-term replacement for Taylor Decker.
Melo writes:
“Freeling is raw but has ideal length and athleticism. The Lions would be a strong landing spot as he develops into a future starting tackle.”
CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
Another defensive back option with scheme versatility.
Edholm notes:
“Terrell projects inside, and his play style fits what the Lions value on defense. With Brian Branch coming off a torn Achilles, the Lions must continue adding defensive depth and talent.”
OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
Lomu offers positional flexibility along the offensive line.
Bianchi explains:
“Lomu fits as a future replacement for Taylor Decker, but some evaluators believe he can also play guard. That versatility could allow him to contribute as a rookie while developing at tackle.”
Lions Mock Draft Outlook
The latest 2026 NFL mock draft projections suggest Detroit will focus on one of three premium needs:
Cornerback
Defensive line
Offensive line
With multiple cornerbacks being mocked to Detroit, the early consensus points toward Brad Holmes targeting a long-term answer in the secondary with the No. 17 overall pick.
As draft season continues, expect Detroit’s projected targets to shift — but the emphasis on defense is becoming harder to ignore.
