Detroit Lions Eye Kadyn Proctor as Taylor Decker’s Potential Successor in Dane Brugler’s 2026 Mock Draft
As the 2026 draft season ramps up, the Detroit Lions are already appearing in early projections. While the team is focused on its current playoff push, analysts are looking ahead, and one of the key questions is the future of the left tackle spot.
Taylor Decker has been a cornerstone of Detroit’s offensive line for nearly a decade, but with his 33rd birthday approaching next season, retirement is a realistic possibility. Add in the fact that Giovanni Manu hasn’t consistently established himself in his first two seasons, and it’s understandable that draft experts see the Lions addressing the position sooner rather than later.
Brugler Projects Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor to Detroit
In his early 2026 mock draft, The Athletic’s Dane Brugler has Detroit picking 17th overall. That selection reflects national expectations of the Lions as a fringe playoff team that could just miss the postseason this year.
Brugler links Detroit with Alabama left tackle Kadyn Proctor, one of the top prospects in next year’s draft class. Weighing in at 360 pounds, Proctor pairs immense size with mobility and surprising athleticism — traits that align perfectly with what Detroit values in offensive linemen.
Brad Holmes has shown a clear preference for SEC talent during his time in Detroit, including recent picks like guard Miles Frazier, who made his NFL debut against Dallas. Proctor fits that pattern: experienced, versatile, and well-suited for NFL power schemes.
Brugler even joked about how easily the pick could be sold in Detroit’s draft room.
“Proctor would be an easy sell in the Detroit war room — just show Dan Campbell clips of the 360-pounder catching screens and lining up in the backfield,” Brugler said. “Half-joking, but Proctor could be the heir apparent at left tackle while providing immediate depth at guard.”
And honestly, he has a point — a 360-pound athlete dominating the field would excite just about any coach.
Why Proctor Makes Sense for Detroit
Even with talent across the offensive line, the Lions have faced consistency issues, particularly in pass protection. Injuries, rotations, and uncertainty at left tackle beyond 2025 all point to a need for long-term stability.
Adding Proctor could provide Detroit with:
A future left tackle starter
Immediate guard depth
Insurance in case Decker retires
Another young piece for their championship window
Holmes rarely drafts purely for need, but he recognizes the importance of strengthening the trenches.
Detroit’s Identity Is Built Up Front
Investing a first-round pick in an offensive lineman may not grab headlines, but it fits Detroit’s identity. This team relies on controlling the line of scrimmage, protecting Jared Goff, and creating running lanes for Jahmyr Gibbs.
A 360-pound, athletic lineman like Proctor aligns perfectly with that vision. Whether the Lions end up with the 17th pick remains to be seen, but it’s clear they are thinking long-term about their offensive line, and Proctor is already on their radar.
