Lions 'equally high' on filling EDGE need in NFL draft's first round

[ASFN Admin]

With the 2026 NFL draft now less than two weeks away, final intel is swirling.

ESPN shared its latest batch of NFL draft intel on Friday. According to ESPN's Eric Woodyard and Matt Miller, don't expect the Detroit Lions to be solely focused on offensive tackle with its first-round pick at No. 17.

Asked if he thought the Lions would focus on offensive or defensive line early in the draft, Woodyard picked the defensive line.

Defensive line. When free agency opened, the Lions were aggressive in revamping the offensive line by adding Panthers center Cade Mays, ex-Dolphins lineman Larry Borom and veteran guard Ben Bartch. So, it wouldn't be surprising for Detroit to try to strengthen its defensive line early in the draft, particularly with a young, promising player to pair with Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson. That is a top priority after losing Al-Quadin Muhammad to the Buccaneers following his breakout 2025 season. - Eric Woodyard, ESPN

Miller backed that assessment up based on his intel from around the league.

The release of Taylor Decker prompted many to assume Detroit would go offensive tackle in Round 1, but like Eric, I've heard the Lions are equally high on filling their edge rusher need. With only two picks in the top 117, the Lions should be expected to go tackle and edge rusher with those selections. - Matt Miller, ESPN

At this point, it would be a surprise if the Lions don't go offensive tackle or EDGE with their first two picks in either combination.

Whichever direction the Lions head first at pick No. 17, it seems more and more clear that Detroit will then scoop up the other need at pick No. 50.

And with this report from ESPN, an EDGE to pair with Aidan Hutchinson is absolutely in play at pick No. 17.

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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Lions 'equally high' on filling EDGE need in NFL draft's first round

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