Detroit Lions set to pick 17th in 2026 draft: Recent history, best picks, last Lions' selection and potential prospect fits at that slot
The Detroit Lions’ spot in the 2026 draft order wasn’t determined until the final snap of the 2025 regular season.
When Baltimore Ravens rookie kicker Tyler Loop missed a 44-yard field goal as time expired, punching the Pittsburgh Steelers’ postseason ticket, it also locked Detroit into the 17th slot of April’s first round.
Will that actually be where the Lions select? Who knows. General manager Brad Holmes has shown a willingness to go up and get his guy in the past, trading up in the first round for both Jameson Williams and Terrion Arnold. The GM has also moved down the board, dropping from No. 6 to No. 12 in 2023 before snagging running back Jahmyr Gibbs.
Short of knowing the future, we can at least provide you with some history of the No. 17 pick.
Below, we’re going to explore the five most recent players selected at that spot, the five best players picked 17th overall during the Super Bowl era, the last player Detroit chose at that slot, and five early candidates who could help address a projected roster need this year.