While the Detroit Lions had an eventful free agency, there's still one spot that could use some help: the offensive line. And according to Daniel Jeremiah of the NFL Network, the Motown team is eyeing drafting offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor in the upcoming NFL Draft as their No. 17 pick in the roster.  

“I was told, they loved Proctor by the way,” Jeremiah said, while interacting with Mina Kimes on The Mina Kimes Show.

Proctor is a massive 6ft 7in tall offensive tackle from the Alabama Crimson Tide, and is one of the top draft prospects rated as 6.45 for the 2026 NFL Draft. He sits on a Pro Football Focus grade of 85.4, having played 878 snaps in the last season. His 81.8 pass block grade ranks 32nd among 632 tackles. Add in an 81.6 run block grade, and it strengthens the ground game.

Moreover, with the exit of Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow, the O-line needs reinforcements.

Last season, Jared Goff was sacked for a career-high 38 sacks. Even then, he managed 4564 passing yards and 34 touchdowns, the second best across the league. With good pass protection, Goff can take the Lions to the playoffs.

But while the upside is clear, there are still a few questions the Lions have to consider.

The Browns Are Also Looking At Proctor

Well, it's no secret that the Browns need offensive line reinforcements, and they were looking at Kadyn Proctor as a potential addition to the team.

In that case, there's one backup option the team can look at: Monroe Freeling. The George Bulldogs star is another highly rated O-lineman.

Moreover, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. pointed to the Lions as the favorites to pick him.

"Regardless of which side Penei Sewell plays next season, the Lions need a long-term answer at the other offensive tackle spot. Freeling started just 17 games in college, but he's long and quick, and his ceiling is high."

For all Lions updates, follow the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar