Detroit Lions Shake Up Draft Plans in Post-Combine Mock with Bold Trade

Detroit Lions Shake Up Draft Plans in Post-Combine Mock with Bold Trade

Detroit Targets the Trenches with Aggressive Draft Strategy

The Detroit Lions are no strangers to bold moves, and their latest post-combine mock draft scenario is no exception. With an eye on both their offensive and defensive lines, the Lions shake things up with a blockbuster trade, adding another first-round pick to bolster their roster.

Let’s break down this aggressive approach and what it could mean for Detroit’s future.

Lions Swing a Big Trade to Secure Another First-Rounder

Instead of standing pat, the Lions opt to package their 2026 first-round pick along with several late-round selections to strike a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The trade lands them the 19th overall pick, giving Detroit two first-round selections this year.

Trade Details:

• Lions receive: Pick 19, Pick 158
• Buccaneers receive: Picks 101, 198, 230, and Detroit’s 2026 first-round pick

This move signals Detroit’s intent to invest in immediate-impact talent while addressing long-term needs in the trenches.

Round 1, Pick 19 — Tyler Booker, IOL, Alabama

The Lions use their newly acquired pick to shore up the offensive line with Tyler Booker, a physical and aggressive interior lineman from Alabama.

With veteran Kevin Zeitler’s future uncertain and Graham Glasgow struggling at times last season, Booker provides a powerful presence who can compete for a starting role from day one. His tenacity and run-blocking ability make him an ideal fit for Detroit’s hard-nosed style.

Round 1, Pick 28 — Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo

After strengthening the offensive line, the Lions turn their attention to the defensive side, selecting Darius Alexander from Toledo.

A rising prospect, Alexander brings quickness and pass-rushing prowess to Detroit’s front. With key defensive linemen like Levi Onwuzurike potentially leaving in free agency, adding a disruptive force in the trenches is a smart investment.

Round 2, Pick 60 — Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas

Pass rush depth is a priority, and Landon Jackson provides just that. The Arkansas standout is an explosive athlete with a knack for setting the edge and pressuring quarterbacks.

He’ll slot in as a complementary pass rusher alongside Aidan Hutchinson, giving Detroit a dynamic duo to terrorize opposing offenses.

Round 4, Pick 133 — Chris Paul Jr., LB, Ole Miss

With Derrick Barnes hitting free agency, Detroit needs reinforcements at linebacker. Enter Chris Paul Jr., one of the most reliable tacklers in college football.

Paul’s versatility in coverage and special teams value makes him a seamless addition to Detroit’s defensive unit.

Round 5, Pick 158 — Jalen Travis, OT, Iowa State

The Lions double down on offensive line depth with Jalen Travis, a towering 6’8”, 339-pound tackle.

A standout pass protector at Iowa State, Travis has the raw tools to develop into a long-term asset. If he polishes his run-blocking skills, Detroit may have found a late-round gem.

Round 7, Pick 246 — Isaac TeSlaa, WR, Arkansas

To round out the draft, the Lions take a flier on Isaac TeSlaa, a physically gifted receiver with local ties.

After dominating at Division II Hillsdale, TeSlaa transferred to Arkansas, flashing big-play ability. At 6’4” with a 4.43 40-yard dash, he has the speed and size Detroit loves in its receivers.

Lions Make a Statement with This Draft Strategy

By sacrificing a future first-rounder, the Lions are making it clear they believe they’re in win-now mode. Their focus on building the trenches and adding pass-rush firepower shows a commitment to long-term success.

With young talent joining an already strong roster, Detroit’s aggressive approach could pay huge dividends as they look to dominate the NFC in 2025 and beyond.