By Mmesoma 
With the 2025 NFL season just around the corner, the Detroit Lions are looking to build on last year’s success and take the next step toward championship contention. But as sharp-eyed general manager Brad Holmes has shown in recent years, the best franchises plan ahead—and that means keeping an eye on the 2026 NFL Draft.
While it’s still early in the college football cycle, several prospects are already making waves across the nation, and the Lions’ scouting department is undoubtedly watching. Whether Detroit ends up picking late in the first round again or considers moving up to grab a top-tier talent, these five early standouts could be wearing the Honolulu blue in 2026.
1. Caleb Burton – WR, Texas
The Lions are still solid at wide receiver, but adding another explosive playmaker could take their offense to the next level. Burton, a former five-star recruit, is finally breaking out in Austin. With elite route-running and deceptive speed, he profiles as a versatile threat who could line up anywhere on the field—exactly the kind of weapon Jared Goff (or his successor) would love.
2. Deontae Blake – EDGE, Alabama
Even with Aidan Hutchinson anchoring the defensive line, you can never have too many elite pass-rushers. Blake, a relentless edge presence with long arms and first-step explosiveness, is drawing early comps to Brian Burns. Alabama’s track record with defensive talent speaks for itself, and Blake looks poised to be the next in line.
3. Tyrese Johnson – CB, Florida State
The Lions have made strides in their secondary, but depth and long-term talent at corner remain a concern. Johnson is a physical cornerback with elite instincts and the ability to shadow top receivers. His 6’2” frame and ball skills would give Detroit another building block in the back end of its defense.
4. Ethan Rourke – QB, Oregon
Though Jared Goff has provided stability under center, the Lions could be in the market for a developmental quarterback with upside. Rourke, a dual-threat standout at Oregon, has flashed big-play ability and poise under pressure. He’s raw but promising—similar to how Jalen Hurts looked early at Oklahoma.
5. Javion Grant – OT, Penn State
You can never underestimate the value of offensive line talent, especially with Taylor Decker approaching the back end of his career. Grant is a mountain of a man with smooth footwork and violent hands, making him a potential successor at left tackle or a flexible option to dominate the right side.
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Looking Ahead
It’s still a long way until the 2026 NFL Draft, and much will change between now and then. But for a franchise like the Lions, who’ve found success through shrewd drafting and calculated roster building, early scouting could make all the difference. As the college football season kicks off this fall, fans in Detroit might want to start watching a few new Saturday stars—one of them could be the next great Lion.