Defensive tackle tends to be one of Brad Holmes' favorite positions to scout. Last year, the Detroit Lions hit some gold by taking Tyleik Williams in the first round, with him developing into one of the better run defenders amongst rookies in 2025.
He, alongside Roy Lopez, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Aidan Hutchinson, DJ Reader, and Alim McNeill were a pretty strong defensive front. Of course, McNeill didn't end up having that explosive of a comeback from injury last year, and Reader wasn't nearly as impactful as expected with a larger role thanks to McNeill's absence.
It was Lopez and Williams who really stood out in Kelvin Sheppard's defense. That's what makes this year's free agency very interesting: if the Lions decide to let Reader walk but retain Lopez, or if they let both defenders walk, it indicates that the team is looking to the draft to address their new need for an additional starting tackle next to Williams for 2026 and beyond.
Lions' decision on Lopez, Reader could dictate draft strategy
It had been reported during the NFL Scouting Combine that Holmes and the Lions had been doing their homework on top defensive prospects, mostly edge rushers and linebackers. But, they also had some meetings with other defensive linemen, such as Tennessee Volunteers DL Tyre West. One of the event's biggest standout combine showings also came from a tackle, Zane Durant.
There is some serious firepower at that position in the draft overall, with Peter Woods leading the group that also includes Caleb Banks, Lee Hunter, and Kayden McDonald, amongst others.
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It'd be silly for the Lions to not consider loading up here if they let even one of Lopez or Reader walk, as they should be looking to add youth to the line next to Hutchinson and whoever their second edge is in 2026. If both walk, then it's basically a requirement.
Run stopping was a point of emphasis towards the end of the season for Sheppard and the Lions, as they couldn't execute very well against teams looking to pound the ground. Adding some competition to the defensive tackle room could be the boost Detroit needs to get back on track as a run stopping force, assuming the team has also addressed their major need for an additional pass rusher.