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Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft: 3 Late-Round Steals to Watch
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- Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Draft: 3 Late-Round Steals to Watch
(Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times)
Finding value on Day 3 of the NFL Draft has become a staple of how the Detroit Lions build their roster under general manager Brad Holmes. With limited early-round capital in 2026, hitting on late-round prospects could once again define Detroit's success. Here are three late-round value players who would be excellent fits for the Lions' scheme, culture, and roster needs.
1. Pat Coogan, C, Indiana
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If there's one thing Detroit prioritizes, it's depth and versatility along the offensive line—and Pat Coogan fits that mold perfectly. A projected sixth-round pick, Coogan brings experience at center and guard, along with strong leadership traits developed across multiple college programs.
For a Lions team navigating transition on the interior offensive line, Coogan could compete immediately for a backup role while developing into a potential starter. His intelligence and positional flexibility are exactly what offensive line coach Hank Fraley values. Detroit's offense is built on physicality and cohesion up front, and Coogan's profile aligns with that identity.
More importantly, the Lions have consistently invested in offensive line depth late in the draft, understanding that injuries and rotation are inevitable. Coogan may not be flashy, but he's the type of pick that quietly pays off over time.
2. Kaleb Proctor, DL, Southeastern Louisiana
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Every year, the Lions take swings on developmental defensive linemen—and Kaleb Proctor fits that trend perfectly. A likely sixth-round selection, Proctor brings intriguing upside after producing 16.5 career sacks at the college level.
At 6-foot-3 with a disruptive interior presence, Proctor has shown flashes as a penetrating defensive tackle. His performance in pre-draft settings, including all-star events, has helped boost his stock as a high-upside late-round target.
Detroit's defensive philosophy under Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard revolves around building waves of defensive linemen. With potential turnover along the interior defensive line, adding a player like Proctor gives the Lions a cost-controlled option who can develop behind veterans.
He may not contribute heavily right away, but Proctor has the traits to eventually carve out a rotational role—and those are exactly the types of players Detroit has turned into contributors in recent years.
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3. Max Bredeson, TE/FB, Michigan
Few prospects scream "Lions football" more than Max Bredeson. A projected fifth-round pick, Bredeson is a versatile tight end/fullback hybrid who thrives as a blocker. He posted an elite 85.2 run-blocking grade in 2025, showcasing his value in the ground game.
Detroit's offense leans heavily on physicality, whether it's pounding the ball with running backs or using multiple tight end sets. Bredeson's ability to line up as a traditional tight end, H-back, or even fullback makes him a perfect chess piece in Drew Petzing system.
Beyond the scheme fit, Bredeson brings the type of toughness and unselfishness that defines the Lions' culture. He won't fill the stat sheet, but he'll do the dirty work—clearing lanes, picking up blitzes, and setting the tone physically.
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Players like Bredeson often outperform their draft position because of how clearly their role translates to the NFL. In Detroit, that role is already waiting.
Final Thoughts
The Lions don't need every late-round pick to become a star—they just need contributors. That's how sustainable contenders are built.
Pat Coogan offers stability and versatility on the offensive line. Kaleb Proctor brings developmental upside along the defensive front. Max Bredeson delivers a perfect culture and scheme fit in a physical offense.
If Brad Holmes can land even two of these types of players, Detroit will once again prove why it's one of the best drafting teams in the NFL.
