If the Dolphins were to hire Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard as its next head coach, Detroit would receive 2026 NFL draft compensation.

The Detroit Lions will enter the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear identity and an equally clear list of priorities. Rather than chasing splashy skill-position players or forcing need-based reaches, Detroit is in prime position to prioritize building up the trenches, along with its depth and long-term sustainability at multiple positions.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is widely expected to be the first pick in April's NFL draft, and the Detroit Lions probably don't have any shot at landing the draft's best offensive tackle, Miami's Francis Mauigoa, with their first-round pick, No. 17 overall, either.

Free agency, the scouting combine and the 2026 NFL Draft highlight the NFL's offseason events, with the Lions aiming to be active participants to improve their roster for the 2026 season. There are key positions on Detroit's offensive and defensive line to upgrade, with the Lions having several options to make those upgrades.

For the Detroit Lions, there is now another organization that could have an offensive coordinator vacancy or an opportunity Mike McDaniel could find appealing as a head coach. Following a disappointing and controversial loss to the Denver Broncos, the decision has been made by the Buffalo Bills to fire head coach Sean McDermott.

Does Lions offensive coordinator candidate Mike McDaniel hold the current NFL jobs "domino effect" in his hands?