Detroit went 9-8 in 2025, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2022. The offensive line is in transition after Frank Ragnow's retirement, Taylor Decker's release, and Graham Glasgow's release.
| Round 1 | #17 |
| Round 2 | #50 |
| Round 4 | #118, #128 (from Texans) |
| Round 5 | #157, #181 |
| Round 6 | #205 (from Jaguars), #213 (from Seahawks) |
| Round 7 | #222 (from Browns) |
Traded David Montgomery to Houston for Juice Scruggs, 2026 4th-round pick (#128), and 2027 7th-round pick. Traded both 2026 3rd-round picks to Jacksonville in 2025 draft to move up for WR Isaac TeSlaa. Awarded 5th-round compensatory pick (#181).
Critical Needs
Al-Quadin Muhammad (11 sacks, 53 pressures in 2025) left for Tampa Bay, and Marcus Davenport was a complete bust who won't return.
Taylor Decker was released after 10 seasons, creating a massive hole at left tackle.
Important Needs
Alex Anzalone, the defensive captain, signed with Tampa Bay on a 2-year, $17M deal.
Both Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph ended 2025 on injured reserve, and their health status for 2026 carries uncertainty.
Amik Robertson left for Washington (2-year, $16M).
Depth Needs
Center was addressed by signing Cade Mays (3-year, $25M from Carolina), which was the team's biggest FA splash.
Roy Lopez left to return to Arizona, and D.J.
- Lost DE Al-Quadin Muhammad (UFA → Buccaneers) — dramatically increases EDGE need, was 2nd on team with 11 sacks
- Lost LB Alex Anzalone (UFA → Buccaneers, 2yr/$17M) — increases LB need, was defensive captain
- Lost CB Amik Robertson (UFA → Commanders, 2yr/$16M) — increases nickel CB need
- Lost DT Roy Lopez (UFA → Cardinals) — reduces DT depth, increases DT need
- Lost QB Kyle Allen (UFA → Bills) — replaced by re-signing Teddy Bridgewater
Detroit runs a 4-3 base defense under DC Kelvin Sheppard that is heavy on man coverage. Full scheme analysis →
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