Daily DLP: Rookie expectations for Lions 2026 Draft class Detroit Lions Podcast

Can Blake Miller make the Detroit Lions' Week 1 starting lineup at right tackle?
Week 1 is possible, but the baton passes by Week 5. That's the expectation. Blake Miller profiles as the right-side version of Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker, mostly steady with an occasional rookie hiccup.

How big is Derrick Moore’s Year 1 role opposite Aidan Hutchinson?
He plays a lot, even if he does not start Week 1. Moore will push for snaps opposite Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, with Detroit Lions edge rusher DJ Wonnum offering baseline run defense and Detroit Lions edge rusher Payton Turner starting if healthy.
Moore’s versatility from Michigan translates and his impact will be steady instead of streaky. The depth is better, so rotation trims the top-end stat ceiling, but Moore’s down-to-down consistency earns meaningful work immediately.
Will Jimmy Rolder jump Malcolm Rodriguez for LB3 snaps?
He can, if the coverage he showed in minicamp holds. Detroit Lions linebacker Jimmy Rolder is competing with Detroit Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez for the third linebacker role behind the top duo, with special teams also in the mix.
Michael Grey stressed that Rolder’s Michigan tape did not feature standout coverage, but in minicamp he showed range and zone feel, and he is a reliable tackler and a smart run defender. Detroit will not live in three-linebacker sets, so this is about quality rotational downs plus teams work. Expect Rolder to push hard through camp, with the door open if the coverage gains are real.
What is Keith Abney’s path to snaps, and which defensive rookies stick?
Detroit Lions cornerback Keith Abney forces the issue. Pick 157, he challenges for slot work while also fitting outside thanks to his traits. As Michael Grey said, the question is special teams, which often dictates early roles for Day 3 corners. If injuries or underperformance hit, Abney is ready for inside or outside reps. Competition also includes Detroit Lions cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Detroit Lions cornerback Khalil Dorsey.
Up front, Detroit Lions defensive lineman Tyler Lacy is a safe 53-man bet, which squeezes Detroit Lions defensive lineman Tyre West toward the practice squad as a longer-term project. Skyler Gill-Howard brings real pass-rush juice and is battling Mekhi Wingo for the same interior role. Detroit Lions wide receiver Kendrick Law, a developmental return and special teams candidate, is out for the year.

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