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A detailed view of a Detroit Lions helmet on the field before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on November 12, 2023 in Inglewood, California.

When evaluating whether the Detroit Lions are a good franchise for college players to go to, especially prospects entering the NFL Draft, there are a few key things to assess. These include player development, coaching stability, recent draft success, and opportunities for younger players to make an impact both on the field and in the locker rooms.

In recent years, the Lions have shown both progress and challenges, so a balanced take is necessary to determine the fit of the franchise when it comes to recruiting collegiate prospects. Here are some determinants of the fit in Detroit with eligible collegiate players.

Development and Coaching Stability
Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions.

GettyThe Detroit Lions have announced major coaching news for the 2026-27 NFL season, following months of changes.

For multiple seasons, the Detroit Lions have been led by head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes. The two figureheads of Lions leadership have created continuity that many younger prospects can view as a positive for the franchise.

Stability matters given that younger players, particularly those coming out of collegiate programs, are able to better flourish when there are consistent coaching philosophies and program continuity. Since Detroit emphasizes toughness, physicality, and versatility in its roster construction – all of which are traits that are able to assist players in carving out longterm roles – players drafted into the program are able to find identity and purpose within the team even if they aren’t top draft picks upon their entrance.

Player Opportunity

GettyAmon-Ra St. Brown #14 of the Detroit Lions plays against the Dallas Cowboys at Ford Field on December 04, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

The Detroit Lions have a roster that blends young stars like Penei Sewell and Amon-Ra St. Brown with veterans and more senior, experienced players. This means that collegiate players entering Detroit from university football programs can learn from established talent and compete for snaps.

Where Detroit particularly shines is in giving mid-round and later draft picks a real shot at success. The Lions often allow players to compete on special teams early on in their professional careers, and encourages them to grow into starting roles. This is a pathway that many young players can benefit from as they are able to productively and effectively grow into their NFL careers starting early on.

2026 Draft Prospects Who Fit With the Culture of the Detroit Lions

Overall, the Detroit Lions are a good landing spot for draft prospects coming out of college programs. Based on scheme, roster needs, and team philosophies – or a combination of all factors – here are some potential collegiate prospects for the upcoming NFL Draft who could fit with the Detroit Lions franchise – as sourced from mock drafts, scouting previews, and the initial days of the NFL Scouting Combine.

Offensive Line Prospects

Kadyn Proctor (OT, Alabama)

Francis Mauigoa (OT, Miami)

Spencer Fano (OT, Utah)

 

Defensive Prospects

T.J. Parker (EDGE, Clemson)

Cashius Howell (EDGE, Texas A&M)

Avieon Terrell (CB, Clemson)

Peter Woods (DT, Clemson)

 

Skills Positions & Quarterbacks

Sam Leavitt (QB, Arizona State/LSU)

Oscar Delp (TE, Georgia)

 

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