Maro Itoje took England to a record victory over Wales, but it was not enough to snatch the crown of the six nations.
England scored 10 attempts in a rushed exhibition, but France's victory over Scotland meant that the trophy was raised in Paris.
The Itoje team ended second in the classification, its best ending since 2020, and coach Steve Borthwick backed his pattern to lead the lions this summer.
“Maro has been absolutely exceptional,” said Borthwick. 'He directs with the example every day and has intensified his game.
'This campaign has improved in many areas and has given an example. He is an experienced player in the test level and the lions.
'I have full confidence in Maro's ability to lead the lions in case Andy (Farrell) asked him.
Maro Itoje captained England for a 68-14 record victory over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday
Saracens Lock Iteje (left) scored the first of England's 10 attempts at the Principality stadium
After Saturday's great victory, Itoje was praised by the chief coach of England Steve Borthwick
'We, as a coaching team, talk about part of our role to get as many players in that plane as possible. Our job is to help them do that. Kevin Sinfield proposed it.
“Hopefully there are many players from England in that Lions tour in a couple of months.”
England finished the competition with four victories of five, with its only defeat at the hands of Ireland in the first round.
Speaking after one of his most impressive victories as a chief coach, Borthwick added: 'You can see the growth of the team. For a period there, obtaining the victories, we were falling a little short. Little by little, the team has attached to the process and enjoyed the process of improving.
'I know I enjoy the process of improving. I am really happy with the players, and the followers, who were phenomenal today, who are seeing the fruits of their work in the field.
The rookie not 8 Henry Pollock scored two attempts in his debut, completing the tournament with brilliant praise of the situation itoje: 'Henry has been with the team now for a while. He was with us in our first camp in Girona, then he left and played a couple of games for children under 20 years.
'It is always a revealing story for a young player: it is absolutely annoying when he is on the other side, an absolute plague. I am delighted that I could have a chance, and when he entered, he played very well.