Top 12 2026 NFL Draft Prospects for Lions at National Championship
The College Football National Championship is scheduled for January 19, 2026, featuring the Indiana Hoosiers against the Miami Hurricanes. The game will commence at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcasted live on ESPN. Numerous standout players from this matchup have caught the attention of NFL teams, particularly the Detroit Lions, as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
Top NFL Draft Prospects for the Detroit Lions
The following players are anticipated to be drafted in 2026, highlighting potential fits for the Lions. Keep in mind that underclassmen have until January 23 to declare for the draft.
First-Round Prospects
- Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE (6-foot-2, 277, Junior)
- Francis Mauigoa, RT (6-foot-6, 325, Junior)
- Akheem Mesidor, EDGE (6-foot-2½, 273, Senior)
Bain and Mauigoa are top contenders who might be off the board before the Lions pick. Bain’s ability to stop the run and disrupt passing plays could make him an ideal complement to current Lions standout Aidan Hutchinson. Mauigoa’s versatility to play both tackle and guard is highly appealing, especially with Taylor Decker’s future uncertain. Mesidor, though slightly overlooked due to his age, presents a robust option for the Lions as another edge rusher.
Potential Day 2 and Day 3 Prospects
- Keionte Scott, DB/NB (5-foot-11, 195, Senior)
- Carson Beck, QB (6-foot-4, 220, Senior)
- Mark Fletcher Jr., RB (6-foot-2, 225, Junior)
- CJ Daniels, WR (6-foot-1½, 225, Senior)
- Keelan Marion, WR (6-foot-0, 195, Senior)
- Markel Bell, LT (6-foot-8, 345, Senior)
Scott possesses the agility and hitting ability necessary for a nickel cornerback. Beck may require a re-evaluation of the Lions’ quarterback strategy if they want to target him. Fletcher stands out as a powerful runner but has uncertainties regarding his future.
Additional Notable Prospects
- David Blay, DT (6-foot-3, 305, Senior) – Committed to East-West Shrine Game
- Jakobe Thomas, SAF (6-foot-1, 200, Senior) – Committed to Senior Bowl
- Fernando Mendoza, QB (6-foot-5, 225, Redshirt Junior)
Prospects like Thomas and Poyer have the skills suited for the Lions’ defensive schemes, while Mendoza is emerging as a leading quarterback talent. This year’s draft class offers valuable options across various positions, ensuring the Lions have numerous pathways to strengthen their roster.
Conclusion
As the NFL Draft approaches, the Lions will keenly observe standout talents during the National Championship. With both immediate needs and long-term visions in mind, these prospects will play significant roles in shaping the team’s future.
