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As things stand right now, the Detroit Lions have only one quarterback under contract for the 2026 season: Jared Goff. And make no mistake, Goff will remain the franchise’s unquestioned starter for the foreseeable future. But behind him, the depth chart is wide open.
Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell will almost certainly add at least two quarterbacks this offseason. One will likely be a veteran free agent who can step in if needed. The other could very well come from the 2026 NFL Draft, especially on Day 3, where teams often take swings on developmental passers with upside.
Here are 10 quarterbacks the Lions should strongly consider as potential mid-to-late round options, based on performance, traits, and fit within Detroit’s offensive structure.
Carson Beck – Miami (FL)
A former top prospect with prototypical size (6’4”, 220), Beck has shown high-level processing and accuracy in past seasons, including an elite 2023 campaign. While his 2025 production dipped, the tools remain. In a developmental role behind Goff, Beck’s arm talent and experience in pro-style concepts would be intriguing.
Cade Klubnik – Clemson
Klubnik is an athletic, quick-release passer who rebounded with a strong 2024 and solid 2025. He’s comfortable working off play-action and on the move, which fits nicely with Detroit’s offensive identity. As a rhythm passer, he could thrive learning behind a timing-based quarterback like Goff.
Drew Allar – Penn State
Allar’s raw physical profile is hard to ignore at 6’5”, 235 pounds. While consistency and decision-making have been issues, the upside is still there. In a low-pressure developmental environment, Allar could be molded into a high-ceiling backup with starter traits.
Jalon Daniels – Kansas
Daniels brings toughness, mobility, and leadership. He’s not the biggest quarterback, but he’s a proven competitor who has thrived when healthy. His ability to create outside structure could give Detroit a change-of-pace option behind Goff.
Diego Pavia – Vanderbilt
One of the most efficient quarterbacks in college football in 2025, Pavia posted elite PFF grades and has a fearless playing style. While undersized, he’s a natural playmaker and could be an ideal high-end backup who can win games if called upon. That said, I don’t believe Pavia would fit the culture Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes have built in the Motor City.
Luke Altmyer – Illinois
Altmyer is a steady, experienced Big Ten quarterback who protects the football and operates well from the pocket. He may not have star upside, but he profiles as a reliable No. 2 who fits a system built on timing and play-action.
Sawyer Robertson – Baylor
Robertson offers good size and arm strength, though his career has been marked by inconsistency. With proper development and mechanical refinement, he could become a useful long-term project.
Taylen Green – Arkansas
At 6’6”, 235 pounds, Green is a physical specimen with dual-threat ability and strong efficiency in 2024–25. His mobility adds a dimension Detroit doesn’t currently have at the position.
Cole Payton – North Dakota State
One of the most productive quarterbacks in the nation by advanced metrics, Payton dominated in 2025 and has the size and athleticism NFL teams covet. Coming from a pro-style FCS program, he may be one of the best value picks on Day 3.
Tommy Castellanos – Florida State
Castellanos is a dynamic runner with improving passing touch. While shorter than most NFL quarterbacks, his creativity and competitive edge could make him a valuable developmental piece.
Why This Makes Sense for Detroit
With Goff entrenched as the starter, the Lions can afford to think long-term. Drafting a quarterback on Day 3 allows Detroit to:
- Develop a potential future starter
- Secure a low-cost backup
- Add a mobile or high-upside option to the room
- Protect against injuries without major cap investment
Brad Holmes has shown he values developmental upside and competition. One of these quarterbacks could be the next project that quietly pays off.
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Jeff Bilbrey
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