The Detroit Lions have officially locked in their future, announcing that all seven members of their 2026 draft class have signed their rookie contracts. This marks a significant milestone for the team, as every pick from April's NFL Draft is now under contract and ready to contribute to the Lions' growing momentum.
Leading the charge is first-round offensive tackle Blake Miller, selected with the No. 17 overall pick out of Clemson. Miller inked a four-year deal worth $21.3 million, which includes a fifth-year club option—a standard feature for first-round selections. According to Spotrac, a trusted salary-cap resource, rookie contract values are predetermined based on draft position, but players still negotiate finer details like guaranteed money and signing bonuses. For Miller, that means a fully guaranteed contract, a perk that's become the norm for most first-round picks.
Interestingly, the Lions avoided the contract holdouts that plagued some teams last offseason. In 2025, the Houston Texans set a precedent by giving second-round wide receiver Jayden Higgins a fully guaranteed deal, sparking a trend that extended through the No. 40 overall pick. That caused delays for players like Lions second-rounder Tate Ratledge, who didn't sign until mid-July. But this year, Detroit's front office moved swiftly. Edge defender Derrick Moore, taken No. 44 overall in the second round, has already agreed to a four-year, $11.4 million contract that's fully guaranteed, per KPRC's Aaron Wilson. It's a sign of the team's commitment to building a cohesive roster without distractions.
The full breakdown of the Lions' rookie class is as follows:
▶ Round 1 (No. 17 overall): Blake Miller, OT, Clemson — Four years, $21.9 million (plus fifth-year option)
▶ Round 2 (No. 44): Derrick Moore, Edge, Michigan — Four years, $11.4 million
▶ Round 4 (No. 118): Jimmy Rolder, LB, Michigan — Four years, $5.4 million
▶ Round 5 (No. 157): Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State — Four years, $4.7 million
With all seven rookies now signed, the Lions can focus on integrating these fresh talents into their system. This class, highlighted by Miller's imposing presence on the offensive line and Moore's edge-rushing potential, adds depth to a roster that NFL.com recently ranked as one of the league's "most complete." For fans, it's a clear signal that Detroit is building for sustained success—one contract at a time.