Keldric Faulk — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 2.0

Faulk has impressive size, can play in odd or even fronts and is still filling out his frame. The upside trumps the unremarkable 2025 production.

Frequent readers of mock drafts know that the Lions are often projected to use high picks on pass-rushing defensive linemen to draw attention away from Aidan Hutchinson. They've resisted that urge in recent drafts, picking run-stopping defensive tackle Tyleik Williams in the first round last year. But this could be the time for the Lions to finally add a defensive end with the talent to draw attention from both interior linemen and offensive tackles.

Faulk has the versatility to play inside or outside at 6-foot-6, 285 pounds, and the power he generates would keep offensive lines honest. His two sacks last season were a disappointment after a seven-sack campaign in 2024, but Faulk has fans around the league who see him as an ideal hybrid defensive lineman.

First, Faulk just turned 20 in September. Second, he's unofficially 6-foot-6 and 288 pounds, and he is already near-elite as a run defender. The power and athleticism with which he plays make it an easy projection to see him as a dominant pass rusher down the road. Maybe it doesn't happen until, say, Year 2 in the league, but when it all comes together, it's going to be scary.

One of these years, the Bengals will figure out the trenches. For now, though, defensive line remains an area of need.

Faulk, one of the youngest prospects in the class, is a freaky talent at 6 feet 6 and 285 pounds. He could help solve a few different problems in Cincy.

The void left by the trade of Micah Parsons might prompt the Cowboys to load up on pass rushers in the offseason. Faulk is a bit of a project as a pure QB hunter, but his explosive traits could intrigue a coaching staff that believes in a draft-and-develop philosophy.

Faulk is a tough evaluation. He has great size and is a smooth athlete, but I'd like to see him play with a little more urgency. The upside is tremendous.