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Detroit Lions 2026 Draft Class: Rookie Impact
Jul 6, 2026Ryan McCrystalSharp Football Analysis
Getting things ready
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The following is an excerpt from Warren Sharp's 2026 Football Preview . In addition to Warren's deep, detailed write-up on all 32 NFL teams, each chapter features page after page of full-color charts, stats, and heatmaps, as well as draft class analysis from Ryan McCrystal. Click here for a full FREE chapter from the 2026 Football Preview . Every team is excited about their incoming class of rookies, but how will those new players affect each team in 2026? Let's look at the Detroit Lions, breaking down the most likely instant-impact rookies from their class while also providing some insight into why certain early picks may not see the field. Detroit Lions 2026 Draft Class: Which Rookies Will Make an Impact? The Lions backed themselves into a corner by releasing left tackle Taylor Decker and failing to add a competent short-term replacement in free agency, which led to the selection of Blake Miller (first round). Fortunately for Detroit, Miller was still on the board because most of the linemen who were drafted in the first round are developmental prospects and likely not ready to help a contending team. Miller was a four-year starter at right tackle for Clemson and is expected to line up there for Detroit as well, pushing Penei Sewell to the left side. During his time at Clemson, Miller made steady progress and became a high-level pass protector by his senior year. Take a look at where his blown-block rate in pass protection ranks compared to all tackles over the last four seasons: Freshman: 29th percentile Sophomore: 37th percentile Junior: 74th percentile Senior: 96th percentile That consistent growth is likely an indication of a high floor for Miller’s production, even if he lacks the elite upside of some of the offensive tackle prospects in this class. Derrick Moore (second round) falls into a similar category as Miller. He probably lacks an elite ceiling, but his production and ability to contribute immediately fit perfectly in Detroit. Moore will likely compete with free agent addition D.J. Wonnum for a starting job and will certainly be a part of the rotation. In 2025, Moore generated a 19.4% pressure rate when lined up on the edge, ranked third among power-conference pass rushers. Moore will be joined in the defense by his Michigan teammate Jimmy Rolder (fourth round). As a rookie, Rolder will mostly see action on special teams, but Malcolm Rodriguez is in the final year of his contract, so a starting job is likely to open in 2027. Like Rodriguez, Rolder is more reliable against the run 一 he had an impressive 8% missed tackle rate last year 一 and there is a good chance he steps into that role next year. Keith Abney II (fifth round) is a diminutive outside corner, and his lack of length shows up in his inability to consistently get his hands on the ball. Based on route-adjusted data, Abney generated a ball-hawk rate just 4.8% above expected last year. He did make plays when he had the opportunities, catching 5 interceptions during his two years as a starter. Kendrick Law (fifth round) spent three years at Alabama, struggling to get on the field before finally playing as a senior at Kentucky. He lined up in the slot for Kentucky, where the Wildcats fed him a steady diet of quick throws to allow for his playmaking ability after the catch. Law generated 25% more yards after catch than expected based on route-adjusted numbers. Don’t expect a huge role for Law as a rookie, but his skill set is well-suited to replace Kalif Raymond, wh…