The Detroit Lions traded up on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft to select Derrick Moore at No. 44. The pick drew attention not only for football reasons, but also for his personal story and strong connection to Michigan.

After the draft, Moore spoke on a call with local media about his connection to Michigan. He also talked about why the move to Detroit means a lot to him.

“For a lot of people who don’t know my story really well, freshman year, I moved my mom up to Michigan with me, so I really don’t have to go anywhere far,” Moore said. “So it just makes everything good for me, and my mom and I are already comfortable, and we just love Detroit and everything.”

One important part of Moore’s background is his family situation. Moore did not have a proper father figure growing up since his father had been incarcerated for a long time. He is very close to his mother, who raised him and encouraged his football career from a young age.

Because of this, he often speaks about responsibility and supporting his family through football. This is also why moving with his mother to Michigan and building a stable life there has been a key part of his journey.

“I would say for me, it definitely means a lot,” Moore said. “Somebody who’s just really familiar with the area, pretty much grew up in and loves the area, and I’m just excited just to be back. I feel like Detroit is my second home.”

Moore is coming off a strong 2025 season with the Michigan Wolverines, where he totaled 10 sacks after improving from four the year before. It also marked his first full season as a starter.

The Lions saw not just a player, but a person with strong personal motivation when they picked Derrick Moore. After the draft, the Lions GM shared what they expect from Derrick Moore after the trade-up.

Holmes Sets Clear Expectations and Role for Derrick Moore in Detroit

After the pick, Detroit GM Brad Holmes made it clear the team is focused on growth, not instant pressure, as they bring in Derrick Moore. Holmes elaborated on what the rookie edge rusher needs to do in Detroit and how the team plans to use him.

When asked if they wanted Moore to fill in for Al-Quadin, Holmes disagreed.

“Yeah, look, he just needs to come in and be who he is. You know, that's not the reason why we drafted him,” Holmes said. “[It's not like] he has to replace Q's production. And no, it's not that. Like, if he does, great. We do expect that he can become that player, to meet that kind of production in time.”

Over his college career, Moore played 53 games and started 23. He was a three-time All-Big Ten selection and served as a team captain in 2025. His rise made him one of the top edge rushers in the draft class.

According to Holmes, Moore is a rookie who will add more sacks, more pressure, and more plays that disrupt the quarterback over time.

While expectations are there, Detroit is focused on letting him develop step by step and add value to the defense over time.

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Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit