Just days after the 2026 NFL Draft wrapped up, ESPN's Jordan Reid is already looking ahead—and his early projection for the Detroit Lions should feel familiar to fans who love a good trench battle. In his Way-Too-Early 2027 NFL Mock Draft, Reid has the Lions selecting Missouri guard Cayden Green with the No. 21 overall pick.

For a team that just made a statement by drafting tackle Blake Miller in the first round of the 2026 draft, this move signals the Lions aren't done fortifying their offensive line. Miller solidified the edge, but inside at guard, there's still a lingering question mark—one of the few spots on an otherwise loaded roster that carries long-term uncertainty.

Green, a 6-foot-5, 324-pound lineman out of Missouri, is built like a natural guard despite logging time at tackle in college. His physical profile fits perfectly with what general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell have prioritized: power, aggression, and a blue-collar mentality. Green's game is anchored by brute strength and explosive initial contact. He latches onto defenders and creates movement in the run game—something that would immediately translate to Detroit's identity as a smash-mouth, ground-and-pound offense.

In pass protection, Green flashes strong hands early in reps, but consistency remains a work in progress. His strike timing and overall polish are still developing, which is expected for a prospect this early in the cycle. He also dealt with a foot injury last season that limited his mobility at times. Evaluators will be watching closely to see how he responds and whether he regains his full movement skills.

The Lions have built one of the NFL's most respected offensive lines by consistently investing in the trenches. Even with a strong unit already in place, the front office has shown a willingness to stay ahead of potential needs rather than react to them. Projecting a guard in the first round a year out may seem aggressive, but it aligns perfectly with how this franchise operates. And if Cayden Green continues to develop, don't be surprised if this early projection starts gaining serious traction.