The Detroit Lions added some fresh talent to their defense during the 2026 NFL Draft by picking Skyler Gill-Howard in the sixth round. While adding a new player is usually exciting news, this move puts current defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo in a very difficult position.

Because both men play similar roles, many believe the Lions brought in Gill-Howard specifically to take Wingo's place on the team. 

“With the addition of Gill-Howard, fellow defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo’s roster spot could be in jeopardy for the 2026 season.” Vito Chirco from Sports Illustrated reported.

The Lions signed Mekhi Wingo in 2024 for a 4-year, $42 million contract. However, since being drafted, he has struggled to find his footing in Detroit. His rookie year was cut short by a painful knee injury during the Thanksgiving game. 

He only participated in 59 plays throughout the entire year. After two seasons of low production and the addition of a DT, the team may potentially seem ready to move in a different direction. With Gill-Howard now entering the mix as direct competition, the 2026 season will be a make-or-break moment for Wingo. 

The pressure is now higher than ever for Wingo to prove he belongs on the roster. 

Lions GM Gives His Take On Drafting Gill-Howard

The Lions added Skyler Gill-Howard in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Taken at pick No. 205, Gill-Howard brings a unique background to the Motor City. And the Lions GM Brad Holmes had nothing but praise for the young tackle’s relentless work ethic and speed, noting, 

“Gill-Howard showed pretty consistent tape in terms of his motor. He’s 100 miles per hour. He’s not the biggest guy, but he’s quick, he’s relentless, he’s instinctive, and he can win quick.” 

Gill-Howard originally played as a linebacker at Northern Illinois. To make the move to the defensive line, he famously gained 50 pounds, but kept the speed and quickness from his days as a linebacker. He finished his college career with 52 tackles and five sacks, proving that he can disrupt the backfield even without the massive size of a typical tackle. 

On the field, Gill-Howard is best known for his ability to explode toward the quarterback the moment the ball is snapped. Because he is naturally lower to the ground (6’1”) than most opponents, he has great leverage, allowing him to hold his spot against much larger players. 

Do you think he can replace Mekhi Wingo in the upcoming season?

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi