SHOCKER: Detroit Lions FACE Critical Draft Decision—Will Brad Holmes CHOOSE a Game-Changing Tackle?

In this Thursday edition of Locked On Lions, hosts Matt Derry and Ross Jackson dive deep into the Detroit Lions' upcoming NFL Draft decision, focusing on their 17th overall pick and the critical choice between drafting a top-tier offensive tackle or an edge rusher. NFL draft expert Trevor Sykema joins the conversation, emphasizing that while the 2026 draft lacks a star-studded quarterback class, it offers strong depth at offensive line and edge rusher positions. Sykema strongly advocates for the Lions to select an offensive tackle at 17, highlighting Caden Proctor, Max Iannacher, and others as ideal fits for Detroit’s power-based, physical style under Dan Campbell. He argues that while edge rushers like TJ Parker and Jay Sean Barnum could be viable at pick 50, the gap between first-round and second-round tackles is too significant to wait. Sykema also discusses the potential of players like Vega Yohane and Jennings Dunker, though he cautions against drafting them at tackle. The episode wraps with a discussion of late-round sleepers and the Lions’ track record of drafting high-upside players, reinforcing the idea that Brad Holmes’ strategy is to take the best player available with positional flexibility. Key takeaways include: 1) The Lions should prioritize an offensive tackle at #17 due to the NFL’s lack of depth at that position; 2) Max Iannacher is the highest-ceiling tackle in the class and a top fit for Detroit’s power scheme; 3) Waiting until pick 50 for a tackle is a risky strategy due to the talent gap; 4) Edge rushers like Jay Sean Barnum and Derek Moore are strong second-round fits; 5) The Lions’ history of drafting high-upside, developmental players supports a 'best player available' approach. Overall, the episode builds anticipation for the draft with a clear narrative: Detroit must address its offensive line now to sustain long-term success.