The Detroit Lions' Undrafted Free Agent (UDFA) class of 2026 is a diverse group, with varying levels of talent and potential. This year, the Lions have taken a calculated risk on several players, with the goal of finding hidden gems among the undrafted. Here's a breakdown of each UDFA's chances of making the roster, ranked from highest to lowest probability, along with personal commentary and analysis.
DT Aidan Keanaaina, Cal
Aidan Keanaaina is a strong contender for a spot on the 53-man roster. With a guaranteed contract of $267,500, he stands out as one of the few UDFAs to secure such a significant amount. His 320-pound frame and the team's lack of investment in a nose tackle this offseason make him a visible route to the roster. The loss of DJ Reader and Roy Lopez in free agency further emphasizes the need for defensive talent, and Keanaaina's presence could be a welcome addition.
LB Erick Hunter, Morgan State
Erick Hunter brings a high-end athletic profile and a strong motor to the table. His $175,000 guaranteed contract is a positive sign, and his high-end athleticism could land him a special teams role early on. With relatively thin depth at linebacker, Hunter has a realistic path to the roster. However, adjusting to the NFL level of play will be a challenge, but his potential is undeniable.
EDGE Anthony Lucas, USC
Anthony Lucas is a fascinating prospect. Ranked 160th on the Consensus Big Board, he is projected as a fifth-round talent. The Lions are taking a calculated risk on his NFL size (6-foot-5, 256 pounds). While his career at USC may not have lived up to expectations, Detroit is banking on his potential. Lucas' ranking among NFL UDFAs is a strong indicator of his talent, and his versatility could be a valuable asset.
QB Luke Altmyer, Illinois
Luke Altmyer's path to the roster is less certain. With a $0 guaranteed contract and a 242nd ranking on the Big Board, he is running unopposed for the QB3 spot. Altmyer's reputation as a smart quarterback with mobility is a positive, but the Lions' preference for carrying only two quarterbacks on the roster may be a hurdle. His development as a backup could be a valuable asset, but making the 53-man roster is a challenging prospect.
TE Miles Kitselman, Tennessee
Miles Kitselman has an intriguing path to the roster. While the Lions are likely set with their top three tight ends, Kitselman's chance to justify a TE4 spot is real. His balanced workload at Tennessee, both in blocking and receiving, makes him a versatile prospect. With limited competition, he has the opportunity to grow into a player capable of filling various tight end roles.
EDGE Eric O'Neill, Rutgers
Eric O'Neill's 2024 season at James Madison was impressive, with 52 tackles, 13 sacks, and 18.5 tackles for loss. However, his performance at Rutgers the previous season was less stellar. O'Neill's climb from community college to a D1 school is a testament to his potential for further development. Given his impressive numbers at James Madison, the Lions are taking a chance on his ability to continue improving.
CB De'Shawn Rucker, USF
De'Shawn Rucker's chances of making the roster are slim. With a $0 guaranteed contract and a 646th ranking on the Big Board, he is a long shot. Rucker's fast speed and versatility at both outside and nickel positions are positive attributes, but his inability to crack the starting lineup at Tennessee is a concern. His potential remains untapped, but the competition in the NFL is fierce.
DB Aamaris Brown, UNLV
Aamaris Brown's 5-foot-9, 197-pound frame and inside/outside versatility make him an intriguing prospect. With a $0 guaranteed contract and a 724th ranking, he is a long shot. Brown's 'dawg' attitude is a positive, but his performance against NFL receivers will be a crucial test. The Lions are taking a risk on his potential, but the competition is fierce.
OL Melvin Priestly, Illinois
Melvin Priestly's path to the roster is uncertain. With a $0 guaranteed contract and a 821st ranking, he is a long shot. The Lions' heavy investment in tackle and guard positions leaves little room for Priestly unless he excels in the summer. His former Illini position and projected role are unclear, but his potential remains untapped.
In summary, the Detroit Lions' UDFA class is a mix of calculated risks and long shots. While some players have a higher probability of making the roster, all have the potential to contribute in their own unique ways. The Lions' strategy of investing in a few key positions while taking chances on others could pay off, but only time will tell.
