For the fifth time in his six drafts as Detroit Lions general manager, Brad Holmes has made a trade in the second round.
With their offensive line set, the Detroit Lions opened Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft by focusing on defense, selecting Michigan defensive end Derrick Moore with the 44th overall pick of the draft in the second round.
The Lions moved up six spots in the 2026 NFL draft Friday, April 24, sending their second-round pick – No. 50 overall – as well as Pick No. 128 to the New York Jets for Pick No. 44.
Moore joins a defense that ranked 18th in total defense and 22nd in points allowed last season. He will rush opposite his fellow Michigan alum, Aidan Hutchinson.
The Lions opened the draft by taking Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller with the 17th pick of the first round. Miller is expected to compete for the starting right tackle job this fall on a line that could have new starters in four different positions.
All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell is expected to move to the left side, free agent addition Cade Mays takes over at center, Miller will compete with Larry Borom for the right tackle job and while the Lions return starting guards Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany they could have an open competition for the left guard spot.
The Lions do not have a third-round pick but have seven picks remaining on Day 3 of the draft: Two in Rounds 4, 5 and 6 and one in Round 7.
Dave Birkett covers the Lions for the Detroit Free Press. Contact him at dbirkett@freepress.com. Follow him on Bluesky, X and Instagram at @davebirkett.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Lions trade up, take DE Derrick Moore at No. 44 on Day 2 of 2026 NFL Draft