The Detroit Lions are making moves to solidify their roster, signing three of their seven rookie draft picks to their first NFL contracts. This latest round of signings focuses heavily on the defensive line, signaling a clear commitment to building a formidable front.
Leading the pack is defensive end Derrick Moore, a second-round pick selected 44th overall. To land Moore, the Lions traded up six spots—a sign of how highly they value his potential. Coming off a standout season at Michigan where he recorded a career-high 10 sacks, Moore is expected to compete immediately for a rotational role at defensive end. His deal is reportedly worth around $11.5 million, including a $4.9 million signing bonus, and is fully guaranteed.
Joining Moore in the trenches are two later-round picks with something to prove. Defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard, taken in the sixth round (No. 205 overall), brings a gritty journey to the NFL. After starting his college career at Upper Iowa, he made stops at Northern Illinois and Texas Tech, where he started six games last fall. Despite missing the second half of the season with an ankle injury, his versatility makes him a candidate for a backup role. His contract is valued at approximately $4.65 million with a $267,928 signing bonus.
Rounding out the trio is seventh-round pick Tyre West (No. 222 overall), a defensive end from Tennessee. With 10 sacks over 48 college games, West will look to carve out a niche as a sub-package pass rusher. His deal is estimated at $4.55 million, including a $170,228 signing bonus.
The Lions' draft strategy this year was clear: after selecting Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller with their first-round pick (No. 17 overall), they used five of their final six selections to bolster the defense. All rookies sign slotted four-year contracts, with first-round picks having a fifth-year option. As training camp approaches, these new Lions will be eager to prove they belong—and fans will be watching closely to see which of these defensive prospects can make an immediate impact.