Lions’ 2026 NFL Draft: Top 12 Prospects to Watch in Championship

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

The College Football National Championship is set for Monday, January 19, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET, featuring the Indiana Hoosiers against the Miami Hurricanes. Both teams boast impressive talent that will catch the attention of NFL scouts, particularly the Detroit Lions, as they prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Lions’ 2026 NFL Draft: Top 12 Prospects to Watch

The upcoming draft presents several players who fit the Lions’ needs. The following prospects could either be drafted or signed as priority free agents. Notably, underclassmen have until January 23 to declare for the draft or return to college.

First-Round Candidates

Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE (Junior, 6-foot-2, 277 lbs)
Francis Mauigoa, RT (Junior, 6-foot-6, 325 lbs)
Akheem Mesidor, EDGE (Senior, 6-foot-2 1/2, 273 lbs)

Bain and Mauigoa are top candidates that may be selected before the Lions’ turn arrives. Bain could complement Aidan Hutchinson as an immediate starter, showcasing skills against the run and in pass rushing. Mauigoa is a versatile offensive tackle, also able to transition inside, enhancing his appeal for teams, especially if Taylor Decker considers retirement.

Mesidor, while overlooked for his age, remains a fitting option for the Lions due to his exceptional skills. He has confirmed attendance at the Senior Bowl, providing him a platform to connect with NFL franchises.

Other Notable Prospects

Keionte Scott, DB/NB (Senior, 5-foot-11, 195 lbs)
Carson Beck, QB (Senior, 6-foot-4, 220 lbs)
Mark Fletcher Jr., RB (Junior, 6-foot-2, 225 lbs)
CJ Daniels, WR (Senior, 6-foot-1 1/2, 225 lbs)
Keelan Marion, WR (Senior, 6-foot-0, 195 lbs)

Scott plays aggressively, showing potential as a nickel corner. His ability to impact plays can elevate his draft stock, while Beck may require a strategic shift in the Lions’ quarterback plans. Fletcher stands out as a powerful runner, but rumors indicate he might return to school.

Defensive and Offensive Line Prospects

Markel Bell, LT (Senior, 6-foot-8, 345 lbs)
Anez Cooper, RG (Senior, 6-foot-6, 347 lbs)
James Brockermeyer, C (Senior, 6-foot-3, 295 lbs)

Bell and Cooper present significant size and skill for the Lions to consider, especially as they look to deepen their offensive line options. Brockermeyer’s background may also align well with the team’s requirements.

Potential Day 3 Picks

Carter Smith, LT (Redshirt Junior, 6-foot-5, 313 lbs)
D’Angelo Ponds, CB/NB (Junior, 5-foot-9, 173 lbs)

Smith’s toughness makes him a candidate for a starting role, while Ponds brings an aggressive playing style that could surprise many in the draft process.

In summary, the Lions have a wealth of promising prospects to evaluate from the National Championship players, setting the stage for a dynamic 2026 NFL Draft.