By Moses Joshua 
Detroit’s path forward starts up front, and a new mock draft makes it clear the franchise understands exactly what its quarterback needs to thrive long term.
As the NFL continues to evolve, one truth remains unchanged in Detroit: Jared Goff’s success is tied directly to the men protecting him. While skill-position talent often dominates draft conversations, the Lions’ latest three-round mock draft paints a different picture—one focused squarely on the trenches and the future of the offensive line.
With uncertainty looming and few reliable options on the 2026 free-agent market, Detroit appears poised to lean on scouting, development, and draft capital to safeguard its franchise quarterback.
The Warning Signs Along the Offensive Line
The Lions’ offensive line has long been a strength, but cracks are beginning to show beneath the surface. Taylor Decker’s recent comments about his future have raised eyebrows, and while nothing is imminent, Detroit would be negligent not to prepare for life after its veteran left tackle.
At the same time, interior consistency remains elusive. Outside of Penei Sewell and rookie Tate Ratledge, few linemen feel like guaranteed long-term starters heading into next season. That reality makes offensive line reinforcements less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
Complicating matters further, Detroit does not hold a third-round pick in 2026 after trading up for Isaac TeSlaa, making early-round selections even more critical.
A Two-Pronged Plan to Protect Jared Goff
In this three-round mock draft, created using NFL Mock Draft Simulator, Detroit addresses both tackle and guard—arguably the two most pressing needs for Goff’s longevity.
The headliner is Alabama offensive tackle Proctor, a prospect who immediately steps in as a potential answer at left tackle should Decker’s hints turn into reality. Proctor’s résumé speaks loudly: just one sack allowed this season, along with three quarterback hits and minimal overall pressure surrendered. His polish, size, and pass-blocking efficiency make him a natural fit in Detroit’s system.
Even if Decker returns for another year, Proctor wouldn’t be rushed. Instead, he’d benefit from learning behind a proven veteran while positioning himself as the future blindside protector. Given the current depth—headlined by Dan Skipper and Giovanni Manu—Detroit clearly needs a long-term upgrade.
Fixing the Interior: A Much-Needed Answer at Left Guard
The second key addition comes on the interior with Pregnon, a powerful guard prospect who brings both experience and reliability. After starting every game at left guard during his time with USC, Pregnon allowed zero sacks in 2024, showcasing the kind of stability Detroit has struggled to find.
The Lions have cycled through multiple options at left guard—Christian Mahogany, Miles Frazier, Kayode Awosika, and Trystan Colon—but none have seized the role convincingly. Pregnon changes that conversation.
Widely regarded as one of the top interior offensive line prospects in the class, Pregnon offers Detroit something it hasn’t found internally: a legitimate building block. Rather than hoping for development breakthroughs, this pick signals a clear commitment to upgrading the position with premium talent.
Why This Approach Matters More Than Ever
Jared Goff isn’t a quarterback who thrives on chaos. He’s at his best when protected, decisive, and operating within structure. Detroit’s recent offensive success has mirrored the health and cohesion of its line—and when that protection falters, everything else follows.
This mock draft doesn’t chase headlines or highlight reels. Instead, it invests in durability, sustainability, and foresight. By reinforcing both the edge and the interior, the Lions give themselves flexibility, insurance against retirement or regression, and—most importantly—a cleaner pocket for their quarterback.
If Detroit truly wants to extend its competitive window, this is how it starts. Not with flash, but with foundation.