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Even though it remains summer-like across Michigan, the calendar has moved into October. We're now six weeks into the college football season, the halfway point for some teams.
That means it's time to start paying more attention to the next wave of NFL prospects toiling at the college level. Detroit Lions scouting personnel have been prominently studying and visiting schools and games across the country, doing the groundwork for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
I've finally seen enough film of enough players to have a better idea of some names that should hold some intrigue for the Lions next April. The focus is on positions of higher need, which include (in no specific order): defensive line, offensive line, linebacker and defensive back. Based on comments from head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes, I don't see the Lions being actively in the market for drafting a developmental-type of backup quarterback, so those are not part of the process here.
The players listed here are generally expected to be in the 20-75 overall draft range. It's still too early to have a firm gauge on draft stock, but we'll stick with the current consensus projections in most cases. That excludes players universally projected in the top 20, like Frances Mauigoa, Spencer Fano, Reuben Bain and T.J. Parker from the Lions conversation.
Listed in alphabetical order
Penn State keeps churning out pass rushers, with Chop Robinson and Abdul Carter each being first-rounders in the last two drafts. Dennis-Sutton could be next in line, though he's a different kind of Nittany Lion. He more fits what the Detroit Lions like in an EDGE--long-armed, power-to-speed, play the run on the way to the quarterback. Dennis-Sutton has stepped up his block-shedding ability and burst to the ball in 2025.
The 6-foot-5, 272-pounder is nothing close to the twitchy athlete of his PSU predecessors. That makes him more likely to be available in the range the Lions are picking in the second round, which could be a sweet spot for addressing DE in 2026 for Detroit.
Just picture this behemoth playing next to Tate Ratledge along the Lions' line...
Iowa's right tackle plays exactly how you would expect someone with that aesthetic to play: physical, relentless, crafty and maybe a little extra after the whistle. Dunker is a snowplow in the run game with outstanding grip strength and shoulder torque. I believe he projects better to guard in the NFL, though he would certainly merit first-round consideration at right tackle, too. If Ratledge is indeed moving to center in 2026 and beyond, Dunker would be a ready-made starting right guard from the '26 Draft.
A native of American Samoa who began his college career at Washington State, Fa'Amoe is the first of two Wake Forest players on the list. The Lions have had scouting representation at almost every Wake game this year, and they've seen what "Lili" can do at right tackle.
Fa'Amoe looks better by the week. He played his best game for the Demon Deacons against North Carolina State, looking very agile and strong in pass protection. Even though he's from the same background as Penei Sewell, the style of play reminds me more of a different NFC North right tackle: Minnesota's Brian O'Neill. The hand placement and knee bend are, like O'Neill, sometimes an adventure in function over form. That's why Fa'Amoe looks like a Day 2 tackle a la O'Neill, the No. 62 overall pick back in the 2018 NFL Draft who has emerged as a very capable longtime NFL starter.
Of all the players listed here, Faulk is the one most likely to be off the board when the Lions are picking in the first round. He's got top-10 overall potential if he continues to thrive as a long and heavy (listed at 6-6/288) end who is at his best playing as a 5-tech or 7-tech. The Lions have a noted preference for bigger ends who can "crush the can", and that's Faulk in a nutshell. Faulk plays the run passionately, and his hustle never diminishes despite high snap counts. Very good player.
Not a player who is getting much attention yet, Ibirogba jumps off the Demon Deacons game film as someone the Dan Campbell Lions will really like in the draft process. He's a 6-foot-3, 296-pound hybrid tackle/end who can win with power or speed around either shoulder. Ibirogba started out at Georgetown (2-year starter) and didn't play much in his first season at Wake Forest. Strong shades of Levi Onwuzurike at his best from the still-growing body of work from Ibirogba in 2025. His long-arm inside rush is incredibly effective and next-level ready.
It's hard to argue with the production Kamara keeps putting on the field. He was dominant at James Madison before following coach Curt Cignetti to Indiana, and Kamara keeps making plays in the backfield for the top-10 Hoosiers.
If the Lions are in the market for a Day 2 replacement/competition for oft-injured Josh Paschal, Kamara can fit the bill. He's lacking ideal length at 6-1, but he has burst off the snap and can win with power or speed over either shoulder of the offensive tackle. Great finisher. Kamara might be a better football player than athlete (hips and ankles are relatively tight), which could limit his draft ceiling. He's also got a torn ACL in his history; insert snarky meme about Brad Holmes salivating here.
Kilgore fits in the Brian Branch mold of a coverage-oriented box safety who is at his best over the tight slot. In the Gamecocks' recent matchups with Kentucky and Missouri, Kilgore looked very at home in handling slot CB duties despite being over 200 pounds and at least 5-11 (he's listed at 6'1" but that looks generous). He plays physical enough in the run game and at attacking swing passes to get looks in the "Spur" role, which is more of the hybrid slot/LB role Branch often plays for the Lions. In limited looks at outside corner in his three seasons for South Carolina, Kilgore has shown promising instincts and ball recognition skills.
You're probably thinking, the Lions already have Branch and he's outstanding. Agreed. He's also due for a very lucrative contract extension in the coming year, one that the Lions might not be able to afford. Even if Detroit locks up Branch, he and Kilgore each have enough positional versatility to play together and really keep offenses guessing. I like that angle for DC Kelvin Sheppard. And much like Branch, a lack of track speed likely makes Kilgore fall later in the draft than he should.
Based on the current crop of mock drafts, Lew is the most common early projection to the Lions in the first round. It makes sense, as he's a natural center--a selection that would leave rookie Tate Ratledge at right guard long-term.
Lew is exceptionally crafty and physical in the pivot. His balance in pass protection and work in handling shaded interior rushers stand out. He's built quite similarly to recently retired Frank Ragnow, and is regarded for his high football IQ, too. I like the upside in working with Lions OL coach Hank Fraley, but Lew does need some technical refinement with his punch and second-level engagement. As a bonus, Lew won't turn 21 until just before his rookie season begins.
Lomu is Utah's left tackle, but he's (for now) considered the inferior of the Utes' first-round-caliber offensive tackles to right tackle Spencer Fano, who is an early candidate to be the first non-QB taken in 2026. Lomu is very athletic and fluid for a 6-foot-6, 306-pounder. He's young (20) and needs some seasoning and more functional use of his strength, which can come from playing less narrow--especially in the run game. High-ceiling NFL left tackle with very impressive traits. Lomu was my projection for the Lions in my first 2026 Mock Draft at Draft Wire.
Uiagalelei had a fantastic game in Oregon's win at Penn State, a game in which the Lions had multiple staffers in attendance. What they saw in that win from No. 10 is sure to tantalize Detroit.
The reigning Big 10 sack champ is straight from Lions central casting at 6-5, 272 pounds and naturally strong and quick. The power in his shoulders and his variety of polished pass rush moves are very appealing. Like Faulk, it would likely require an early playoff exit or a trade up for the Lions to snag Uiagalelei, at least it looks that way in early October. His upside and relentless motor could make that a real possibility.
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: 10 early prospects to know for the Lions for the 2026 NFL Draft
Continue reading...
That means it's time to start paying more attention to the next wave of NFL prospects toiling at the college level. Detroit Lions scouting personnel have been prominently studying and visiting schools and games across the country, doing the groundwork for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
I've finally seen enough film of enough players to have a better idea of some names that should hold some intrigue for the Lions next April. The focus is on positions of higher need, which include (in no specific order): defensive line, offensive line, linebacker and defensive back. Based on comments from head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes, I don't see the Lions being actively in the market for drafting a developmental-type of backup quarterback, so those are not part of the process here.
The players listed here are generally expected to be in the 20-75 overall draft range. It's still too early to have a firm gauge on draft stock, but we'll stick with the current consensus projections in most cases. That excludes players universally projected in the top 20, like Frances Mauigoa, Spencer Fano, Reuben Bain and T.J. Parker from the Lions conversation.
Listed in alphabetical order
Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE, Penn State
Penn State keeps churning out pass rushers, with Chop Robinson and Abdul Carter each being first-rounders in the last two drafts. Dennis-Sutton could be next in line, though he's a different kind of Nittany Lion. He more fits what the Detroit Lions like in an EDGE--long-armed, power-to-speed, play the run on the way to the quarterback. Dennis-Sutton has stepped up his block-shedding ability and burst to the ball in 2025.
The 6-foot-5, 272-pounder is nothing close to the twitchy athlete of his PSU predecessors. That makes him more likely to be available in the range the Lions are picking in the second round, which could be a sweet spot for addressing DE in 2026 for Detroit.
Gennings Dunker, OL, Iowa
Just picture this behemoth playing next to Tate Ratledge along the Lions' line...
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Iowa's right tackle plays exactly how you would expect someone with that aesthetic to play: physical, relentless, crafty and maybe a little extra after the whistle. Dunker is a snowplow in the run game with outstanding grip strength and shoulder torque. I believe he projects better to guard in the NFL, though he would certainly merit first-round consideration at right tackle, too. If Ratledge is indeed moving to center in 2026 and beyond, Dunker would be a ready-made starting right guard from the '26 Draft.
Fa'Alili Fa'Amoe, OL, Wake Forest
A native of American Samoa who began his college career at Washington State, Fa'Amoe is the first of two Wake Forest players on the list. The Lions have had scouting representation at almost every Wake game this year, and they've seen what "Lili" can do at right tackle.
Fa'Amoe looks better by the week. He played his best game for the Demon Deacons against North Carolina State, looking very agile and strong in pass protection. Even though he's from the same background as Penei Sewell, the style of play reminds me more of a different NFC North right tackle: Minnesota's Brian O'Neill. The hand placement and knee bend are, like O'Neill, sometimes an adventure in function over form. That's why Fa'Amoe looks like a Day 2 tackle a la O'Neill, the No. 62 overall pick back in the 2018 NFL Draft who has emerged as a very capable longtime NFL starter.
Keldric Faulk, DL, Auburn
Of all the players listed here, Faulk is the one most likely to be off the board when the Lions are picking in the first round. He's got top-10 overall potential if he continues to thrive as a long and heavy (listed at 6-6/288) end who is at his best playing as a 5-tech or 7-tech. The Lions have a noted preference for bigger ends who can "crush the can", and that's Faulk in a nutshell. Faulk plays the run passionately, and his hustle never diminishes despite high snap counts. Very good player.
Mateen Ibirogba, DL, Wake Forest
Not a player who is getting much attention yet, Ibirogba jumps off the Demon Deacons game film as someone the Dan Campbell Lions will really like in the draft process. He's a 6-foot-3, 296-pound hybrid tackle/end who can win with power or speed around either shoulder. Ibirogba started out at Georgetown (2-year starter) and didn't play much in his first season at Wake Forest. Strong shades of Levi Onwuzurike at his best from the still-growing body of work from Ibirogba in 2025. His long-arm inside rush is incredibly effective and next-level ready.
Mikail Kamara, EDGE, Indiana
It's hard to argue with the production Kamara keeps putting on the field. He was dominant at James Madison before following coach Curt Cignetti to Indiana, and Kamara keeps making plays in the backfield for the top-10 Hoosiers.
If the Lions are in the market for a Day 2 replacement/competition for oft-injured Josh Paschal, Kamara can fit the bill. He's lacking ideal length at 6-1, but he has burst off the snap and can win with power or speed over either shoulder of the offensive tackle. Great finisher. Kamara might be a better football player than athlete (hips and ankles are relatively tight), which could limit his draft ceiling. He's also got a torn ACL in his history; insert snarky meme about Brad Holmes salivating here.
Jalon Kilgore, DB, South Carolina
Kilgore fits in the Brian Branch mold of a coverage-oriented box safety who is at his best over the tight slot. In the Gamecocks' recent matchups with Kentucky and Missouri, Kilgore looked very at home in handling slot CB duties despite being over 200 pounds and at least 5-11 (he's listed at 6'1" but that looks generous). He plays physical enough in the run game and at attacking swing passes to get looks in the "Spur" role, which is more of the hybrid slot/LB role Branch often plays for the Lions. In limited looks at outside corner in his three seasons for South Carolina, Kilgore has shown promising instincts and ball recognition skills.
You're probably thinking, the Lions already have Branch and he's outstanding. Agreed. He's also due for a very lucrative contract extension in the coming year, one that the Lions might not be able to afford. Even if Detroit locks up Branch, he and Kilgore each have enough positional versatility to play together and really keep offenses guessing. I like that angle for DC Kelvin Sheppard. And much like Branch, a lack of track speed likely makes Kilgore fall later in the draft than he should.
Connor Lew, C, Auburn
Based on the current crop of mock drafts, Lew is the most common early projection to the Lions in the first round. It makes sense, as he's a natural center--a selection that would leave rookie Tate Ratledge at right guard long-term.
Lew is exceptionally crafty and physical in the pivot. His balance in pass protection and work in handling shaded interior rushers stand out. He's built quite similarly to recently retired Frank Ragnow, and is regarded for his high football IQ, too. I like the upside in working with Lions OL coach Hank Fraley, but Lew does need some technical refinement with his punch and second-level engagement. As a bonus, Lew won't turn 21 until just before his rookie season begins.
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Lomu is Utah's left tackle, but he's (for now) considered the inferior of the Utes' first-round-caliber offensive tackles to right tackle Spencer Fano, who is an early candidate to be the first non-QB taken in 2026. Lomu is very athletic and fluid for a 6-foot-6, 306-pounder. He's young (20) and needs some seasoning and more functional use of his strength, which can come from playing less narrow--especially in the run game. High-ceiling NFL left tackle with very impressive traits. Lomu was my projection for the Lions in my first 2026 Mock Draft at Draft Wire.
Matayo Uiagalelei, DE, Oregon
Uiagalelei had a fantastic game in Oregon's win at Penn State, a game in which the Lions had multiple staffers in attendance. What they saw in that win from No. 10 is sure to tantalize Detroit.
The reigning Big 10 sack champ is straight from Lions central casting at 6-5, 272 pounds and naturally strong and quick. The power in his shoulders and his variety of polished pass rush moves are very appealing. Like Faulk, it would likely require an early playoff exit or a trade up for the Lions to snag Uiagalelei, at least it looks that way in early October. His upside and relentless motor could make that a real possibility.
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: 10 early prospects to know for the Lions for the 2026 NFL Draft
Continue reading...
