FINAL VERDICT: Last Detroit Lions Mock Draft REVEALS Monroe Freeling, Derrick Moore Solid Picks

On this final Mock Draft Monday episode of the 2026 NFL Draft cycle, Matt Derry of Locked On Lions breaks down the Lions' likely strategy at pick 17, emphasizing their urgent need for a right tackle if Panay Sewell moves to the left side. The episode centers on Jordan Reed's ESPN mock draft, which projects the Lions selecting Georgia tackle Monroe Freeling at 17 and Michigan edge rusher Derek Moore at 50. Derry analyzes the top tackle prospects—Spencer Fano, Monroe Freeling, Caden Proctor, Blake Miller, Max Ihanacher, and Caleb Lomu—highlighting Fano as the ideal but unlikely pick due to early selection. He also discusses the possibility of Brad Holmes trading down to acquire additional picks, especially if top tackles are gone. The episode further explores Keldrick Falk, an Auburn edge rusher with diminished production but strong physical traits, as a potential late-round target. A standout segment features NFL insider Mike Garofalo praising defensive coordinator Calvin Shepard, calling 2026 'the year of Kelvin Shepard,' signaling expectations for a more aggressive, commanding defense. Derry ties this to the Lions' offseason moves, including defensive back additions, and stresses that Shepard’s success hinges on health and performance from key players like Aleem McNeil and Kirby Joseph. The episode closes with sponsor plugs for Ethos life insurance, Indeed sponsored jobs, and Quo business communications. Key takeaways include: the Lions are likely to prioritize offensive tackle at 17, with Monroe Freeling as the top mock pick; a trade-down to gain extra picks is plausible; Derek Moore is a strong fit at 50 for edge rusher; Calvin Shepard’s 2026 season is expected to be pivotal for the defense; and the Lions’ success depends on health and continuity on defense. The overall sentiment is cautiously optimistic, with excitement around the draft and confidence in the team’s direction.