4 Lions who could be fighting for their roster spots after the 2026 NFL Draft

These four Lions players are going to have a rough time finding their spot on the roster this summer

Mike Payton — Detroit Lions Beat Writer
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Free agency is pretty much over for the Detroit Lions, although they say they will continue to be on the lookout, and the 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner.

At this point, it feels safe to look at the roster and discuss which players might have a hard time making it in 2026. Especially after the draft, when the Lions are expected to get deeper at their position. Let’s jump into it.

OT Gioavnni Manu

It’s not looking too good for Manu at this point. The Lions signed Larry Borom, and they’re expected to draft at least one more tackle in the draft, and probably in one of the high rounds. To make matters worse, Miles Fraizer has tackle ability, Devin Cochran is still in Detroit, and Mason Miller is here too. You can’t really move him to guard because a lot is going on there, as well. So where does he fit in?

TE Brock Wright

Wright is making a lot of money for a guy who we expect to be a TE3 for the Lions. Tyler Conklin is a better blocker and also brings an extra receiving threat to Detroit. The Lions may even draft a tight end this year, and then there’s Zach Horton and Thomas Gordon. There is going to be a lot of competition for Wright, and we’re not sure he does anything well enough to beat everyone out.

S Loren Strickland

This one is a real bummer because there is a player here who can play well on special teams, but the issue this past season was that the Lions couldn’t find a place to fit him in. What will the Lions do at the position in the draft? Do they feel they have enough? What about Dan Jackson? It’s hard to see where Strickland fits in.

RB Jacob Saylors

With Isiah Pacheco and Sione Vaki above him on the depth chart, there was still a spot for him as the Lions’ kick returner. But then they signed Greg Dortch, who has been one of the better kick returners in the league. This puts Saylors in a rough spot for sure.

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