The Detroit Lions need to bounce back after one of the most disappointing seasons in recent history. And while all eyes might be on the offense, Kelvin Sheppard's defense will also have to be much better in 2026.
For that matter, Lions general manager Brad Holmes shook up the secondary. He let Amik Robertson walk away and replaced him with Roger McCreary to address their concerns in the slot. However, that didn't stop there.
The Lions took Arizona State star Keith Abney II in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. And while he spent most of his collegiate career playing outside, Holmes believes he could also be suited to play nickel.
Keith Abney II might be the Lions' starting nickel
"I think he can do both," Holmes said. "I'm not pigeon-holing him or putting him in a box that he's a nickel only. He's got enough good tape out there, vs. some really good wide receivers, of him playing on the outside. But I do think from a projection standpoint, I do think he can play inside as well. I just think that's a bonus."
Abney is one of the most intriguing Day 3 selections in this class. He might be one of the steals of the draft, given his never-ending energy and great instincts. He's not the biggest guy, which can hurt his chances to succeed, but he plays much bigger than his size.
Of course, that also might bode a bit of a concern for him if the Lions intend to play him inside. He might be able to hold his own against slot receivers and some running backs, but he may struggle against bigger and more physical tight ends.
From a skill perspective, though, there's no reason he can't be a Day 1 contributor. McCreary is far from a superstar, and the Lions would be highly motivated to give their rookie extended opportunities to showcase his skills.
The good thing about landing Abney is that they have options. They no longer have to be held hostage to Terrion Arnold's miscues, and they shouldn't hesitate to bench him if he struggles again in Year 3.
Stakes have never been higher for Dan Campbell. The Lions must play the best guys, regardless of how much money they're making or their draft pedigree. There's no more wiggle room or margin for error in Detroit, and if Abney is the best guy for the job, they just have to find a way to get him on the field.
Abney has a great nose for the ball and brings contagious energy to the table. And even though size and discipline are legitimate concerns, his ability to disrupt pass catchers' rhythm right at the catch point will grant him opportunities in Detroit.
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