Brad Holmes likes what he’s built along the defensive line, especially at tackle. Between Alim McNeill, DJ Reader, and the solid rotation of Levi Onwuzurike, Pat O’Connor, and Roy Lopez, Detroit’s interior looks pretty well stocked. But with McNeill recovering from a late-season ACL tear and several contracts expiring after 2025, adding a young stud at DT during this loaded draft makes a lot of sense.
This year’s defensive tackle class is arguably the deepest it’s been in a decade. Holmes might not have it at the top of his draft priority list, but if the right guy falls, don’t be surprised to see the Lions pull the trigger.
A few names to keep an eye on: Walter Nolen (Ole Miss) brings elite explosiveness and run-stopping chops. Derrick Harmon (Oregon) is a pressure machine with an 86.3 pass-rush grade. Kenneth Grant (Michigan) offers rare size and versatility, while T.J. Sanders (South Carolina) shows three-down potential with consistent production. And Joshua Farmer (Florida State) is a tough, physical run defender with upside across multiple schemes.
Detroit may not need a defensive tackle early—but the smart money says Holmes won’t pass on the right one if he’s there.
Lions May Be Set at DT—But These Draft Prospects Could Still Be in Play
