After some key departures, the Detroit Lions have some glaring needs ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. Finding another starting-caliber offensive tackle is certainly one of them, even with Penei Sewell switching from right to left tackle. Another potential need involves strengthening the team's running back room after trading David Montgomery to the Texans.
While some will argue that the arrival of free agent signee Isiah Pacheco makes up for the loss of Montgomery, the Lions love to run the football, and they want more than two reliable backs. Another solution could come in the NFL Draft, where the Lions have nine selections.
Recently, ESPN's NFL analyst Ben Solak suggested that Notre Dame backup RB Jadarion Price is a "dream fit" for the Lions, where he would play second fiddle to Jahmir Gibbs, just like he did with the Fighting Irish behind star RB Jeremiah Love.
"But teams that already have a receiving back that they want to avoid over 300 carries over the course of a season should prioritize Price. He would be a great running mate for Bucky Irving in Tampa Bay or Tony Pollard in Tennessee, but the dream landing spot is with Jahmir Gibbs in Detroit. Price, who ran for 674 yards and 11 touchdowns last season Thee is a reliable singles and doubles hitter, and pairing him with a home run threat like Gibbs will bring out the best in him.
ESPN's Ben Solak on Jadarion Price/Detroit Lions
The Lions clearly won't spend the 17th overall pick on a running back this year. However, Price could be their next pick, at No. 50 overall. But then again, the Lions probably won't want to take on another major challenge to return when they've already invested heavily in keeping Gibbs as their starter for the foreseeable future.
Solak calls Price a "difficult projection" because he is not known as a strong pass-blocker or pass-catcher, meaning his best asset is as a rusher.
Price may not be available by the time the Lions are on the clock with the 118th overall pick, but there's no doubt he could be a difference-maker in Detroit, or wherever he lands.
RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition
