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Detroit's 2026 training camp will feature a host of intriguing first-year players, but three rookies are trending towards an early impact for the Honolulu blue. Lions Nation should be keeping an eye on these key draft additions as the team shoots for another run at the NFC North title.
The No. 17 overall pick, Blake Miller out of Clemson, should be in play for the vacant right tackle spot after Taylor Decker's departure. With 2025 All-Pro Penei Sewell moving to the left side of the line, Miller's exceptional lateral quickness and explosiveness may give him the opportunity to compete for the starting role early on.
Miller started more than 50 straight games at Clemson, illustrating his durability and experience. While experts point to issues with leverage and hand usage, Miller's ability could make him the Day 1 starter on Hank Fraley's unit.
While he wasn't drafted in the first round, former Michigan WolverineDerrick Moore may have the highest ceiling of the class. The No. 44 overall selection is an edge prospect with notable length and technique. He specializes in targeting opposing quarterbacks with his ability to bull-rush rival tackles. The franchise traded up six spots to claim Moore, trading picks No. 50 and No. 128 to the New York Jets.
Moore's knack for generating pressure should net him situational snaps on clear passing downs. The grooming process for the 6-foot-4, 255-pound rusher should begin sooner rather than later as second-year defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard seeks to address long-term needs in the Lions' front seven. Moore could develop into a force opposite Aidan Hutchinson, giving offenses trouble on both sides of the line.
Last season, the secondary's struggles largely defined Detroit's season. Injuries decimated a group that allowed over 3,500 yards passing and 31 scores through the air. The Lions ranked in the bottom third of the league in both categories. With starters unavailable, the team had to rely on depth.
For this reason, fifth-round pick Keith Abney from Arizona State could provide instant viability in the slot. Possessing versatile coverage skills, Abney comes to the Motor City with a long track record of high-level production at the collegiate level.
During minicamp, the rookie took snaps with the second-team defense at two positions, a testament to how defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard views the first-year prospect.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like.
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: 3 most likely Detroit Lions rookies that could impact 2026 season
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OT Blake Miller
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The No. 17 overall pick, Blake Miller out of Clemson, should be in play for the vacant right tackle spot after Taylor Decker's departure. With 2025 All-Pro Penei Sewell moving to the left side of the line, Miller's exceptional lateral quickness and explosiveness may give him the opportunity to compete for the starting role early on.
Miller started more than 50 straight games at Clemson, illustrating his durability and experience. While experts point to issues with leverage and hand usage, Miller's ability could make him the Day 1 starter on Hank Fraley's unit.
EDGE Derrick Moore
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While he wasn't drafted in the first round, former Michigan WolverineDerrick Moore may have the highest ceiling of the class. The No. 44 overall selection is an edge prospect with notable length and technique. He specializes in targeting opposing quarterbacks with his ability to bull-rush rival tackles. The franchise traded up six spots to claim Moore, trading picks No. 50 and No. 128 to the New York Jets.
Moore's knack for generating pressure should net him situational snaps on clear passing downs. The grooming process for the 6-foot-4, 255-pound rusher should begin sooner rather than later as second-year defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard seeks to address long-term needs in the Lions' front seven. Moore could develop into a force opposite Aidan Hutchinson, giving offenses trouble on both sides of the line.
CB Keith Abney II
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Last season, the secondary's struggles largely defined Detroit's season. Injuries decimated a group that allowed over 3,500 yards passing and 31 scores through the air. The Lions ranked in the bottom third of the league in both categories. With starters unavailable, the team had to rely on depth.
For this reason, fifth-round pick Keith Abney from Arizona State could provide instant viability in the slot. Possessing versatile coverage skills, Abney comes to the Motor City with a long track record of high-level production at the collegiate level.
During minicamp, the rookie took snaps with the second-team defense at two positions, a testament to how defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard views the first-year prospect.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like.
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: 3 most likely Detroit Lions rookies that could impact 2026 season
Continue reading...
