2026 NFL Mock Draft: NFC North brings in some much-needed trench help
Detroit Lions (9-8) – Last in NFC North
Round 1, No. 17: Caleb Banks, DL, Florida
Banks is an athletic freak at defensive tackle, and is the type of player that will have Head Coach Dan Campbell pounding the table to select come April. He's 6'6", 300 pounds, and moves like a player significantly lighter than that. His run defense needs some work, but he would instantly improve the Detroit pass rush and work alongside star Aidan Hutchinson, as well as Al-Quadin Muhammad, if the front office is able to retain him.
Minnesota Vikings (9-8) – 3rd in NFC North
Round 1, No. 18: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
Another elite linebacker prospect, the Bulldogs' alumni basically called the plays for the Georgia defense in 2025. He communicates at a high level, plays sideline-to-sideline, and would be a lethal pairing with Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores. Minnesota has relied on a veteran core to lead their linebacker unit, especially with Ivan Pace Jr. taking a step back, and Allen could give them the playmaking profile that would truly take their defense to the next level.
Green Bay Packers (9-7-1) – 2nd in NFC North
N/A
Green Bay traded away their 1st round selection in the Micah Parsons deal, giving up the 20th overall pick to the Dallas Cowboys.
Chicago Bears (11-6) – 1st in NFC North
Round 1, No. 25: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
The Bears have completely overhauled their offensive line in the past few seasons, and Lomu could be the final piece to the puzzle. He's a complete prospect with the awareness and football IQ to survive on the blind side as a rookie, and he would give Chicago a chance to develop the franchise left tackle that they've been missing. Protecting Caleb Williams to the fullest extent should be at the forefront of the front office's offseason plans, and the Utah tackle might be able to fulfill that goal for years to come.