Top 12 Prospects to Watch at 2026 East-West Shrine Game for Lions

The East-West Shrine Game, a prestigious annual event, features top prospects for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Scheduled for January 27th at 7 p.m. ET, this game will be broadcast live on the NFL Network. It attracts interest from scouts seeking to evaluate the talents of potential draftees. While many players may opt to focus on the NFL Combine to avoid injury, several key prospects could catch the Detroit Lions’ attention during this showcase.

Top Prospects for the Detroit Lions

Here are the twelve prospects to keep an eye on during the 2026 East-West Shrine Game:

• Desmond Claiborne, RB/KR, Wake Forest (5’9″, 187 lbs)

  Claiborne demonstrates impressive contact balance and agility. His vision and speed make him a potential game-changer.

• Kaden Wetjen, Slot WR/KR, Iowa (5’9″, 195 lbs)

  Wetjen, a standout returner and the two-time Jet Award winner, could fill the WR4 and kick returner role effectively.

• Eli Heidenreich, FB/H-Back/Slot, Navy (6’0″, 200 lbs)

  Versatility defines Heidenreich, who can line up at multiple positions and make significant special teams contributions.

• Max Bredeson, FB/H-Back, Michigan (6’2″, 250 lbs)

  Bredeson is a top blocker with great versatility, ideal for the anticipated 13 personnel in Detroit’s offense.

• Eli Raridon, TE, Notre Dame (6’6″, 244 lbs)

  Stepping into a starting role, Raridon’s ability to catch and run is complemented by his blocking skills, despite some inconsistencies.

• Brian Parker, OT/C, Duke (6’5″, 306 lbs)

  Parker shows promise as an interior offensive lineman, boasting strength and movement skills that can adapt at the NFL level.

• Kaleb Proctor, DL, SE Louisiana (6’2″, 275 lbs)

  Proctor’s impressive first step and active hands could see him filling a crucial 4i-technique role in Detroit’s defense.

• Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF (6’4″, 247 lbs)

  Lawrence’s dynamic presence and quickness make him an appealing prospect for generating pressure off the edge.

• Harold Perkins, WILL, LSU (6’0.5″, 222 lbs)

  Adds unique athletic ability and potential roles for off-ball play, showcasing valuable versatility for NFL teams.

• Lander Barton, MIKE/SAM, Utah (6’4″, 233 lbs)

  Barton combines balance and instincts, with potential as both a rookie contributor and future starter for the Lions.

• Cole Wisniewski, SAF/LB, Texas Tech (6’3.5″, 214 lbs)

  Experience and versatility position Wisniewski as a key player for a modern defensive scheme, emphasizing solid instincts.

• Bishop Fitzgerald, SAF, USC (5’11”, 205 lbs)

  A three-year starter, Fitzgerald’s interception record makes him a desirable candidate for Detroit’s secondary needs.

The East-West Shrine Game not only showcases talent but also raises funds for Shriners Children’s, emphasizing its importance beyond football. As teams prepare for the draft, the Lions will undoubtedly be on the lookout for players who can contribute meaningfully next season.