Pride of Detroit
The Detroit Lions’ offense is loaded with talented skill players, but their offensive line is the engine that makes everything run. That engine looks like it’s headed for a tune-up after an inconsistent performance in 2025 and two starters contemplating retirement. NFL Draft analysts are starting to embrace this concept, and you see the results in recent mock drafts.
Of the 23 mock drafts we examined this week, 12 projected the Lions to take an offensive lineman in the first round. Fortunately for the Lions, this year’s offensive line prospects appear to line up well with their draft position; they currently hold the No. 17 pick.
If you’re not familiar with how this mock draft roundup series operates, each week we collect data from the latest mock drafts published over the last seven days and compile them (with links to the original pieces) in one easy-to-access article. In addition to providing Lions fans with the names of prospects being paired with Detroit, we also offer commentary that highlights trends, player fits, and the team’s overall philosophy.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at which NFL Draft prospects are being mocked to the Lions (who hold the No. 17 overall pick) this week.
Francis Mauigoa, RT, Miami (6-foot-6, 325)
Source: Mex Chadwick (PFF), Nicholas Rome (Saturday Blitz), Paul Guillemette (Draft Countdown), Nicholas Rome (Saturday Blitz), Steve Bradshaw (TWSN)
“The Lions would be wise to address their offensive line this offseason, especially with longtime left tackle Taylor Decker contemplating retirement. Detroit gets a potential steal here in Mauigoa. His 86.4 PFF pass-blocking grade is sixth among all FBS tackles this year, while his 78.4 PFF run-blocking grade is 20th. Mauigoa has played right tackle his entire career, but either he or Penei Sewell is capable of switching to the left side.” — Chadwick
Spencer Fano, RT, Utah (6-foot-5, 300)
Source: Justin Melo (The Draft Network)
“Detroit Lions offensive tackle Taylor Decker is weighing retirement this offseason. The offensive line must be prepared for his potential departure. The offense missed Ben Johnson in 2025. Spencer Fano is a fluid mover in space with short-area athleticism. In this scenario, Fano would transition to left tackle.” — Melo
Ioane Vega, LG, Penn State (6-foot-4, 335)
Source: Charles McDonald and Nate Davis (Yahoo Sports), Jacob Infante (Pro Football Network), Denny (Mock Draft Database)
“The Lions aren’t far from getting back to being NFC contenders, but they’ll need to get a bit more talented on their offensive line to have a more consistent offense to close out seasons and games. Ioane has the size and athleticism that head coach Dan Campbell has grown to covet in his offensive linemen and fits Detroit’s bruising style of play.” — McDonald
Kadyn Procter, LT, Alabama (6-foot-7, 360)
Source: Alec Elijah (Pro Football Network), Ayrton Ostly (USA Today)
“Kadyn Proctor’s sheer size immediately alters the math for the Detroit Lions. Despite his massive build at 6-foot-7, Proctor’s lateral quickness stands out, covering...
