Chargers edge Khalil MackScott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Detroit’s defense was repeatedly impacted by injuries this season. Even if the Lions are healthy and retain most of their free agents, though, they could afford to add more talent to that side of the ball.
The Lions ended the regular season ranked 22nd in yards per carry allowed, 23rd in net yards per pass attempt allowed and 20th in total yards allowed.
Adding another edge-rusher could be the top priority. Detroit needed edge-rushing help even before Aidan Hutchinson’s injury, and while it did land Za’Darius Smith at the trade deadline, there’s room for another sack artist.
Expect the Lions to consider free agents like Azeez Ojulari, Khalil Mack, Josh Sweat and Haason Reddick. If a pass-rusher like Myles Garrett, Maxx Crosby or Trey Hendrickson becomes available in a trade, for whatever reason, Holmes will probably pounce.
Cornerbacks like D.J. Reed, Charvarius Ward, Asante Samuel Jr., Byron Murphy and Stephon Gilmore will probably be on Detroit’s radar as well. Only the Jacksonville Jaguars and Baltimore Ravens surrendered more passing yards in 2024 than Detroit.
The defense could do with a bit more depth along the defensive line. It’s not a massive need, but adding a defender like Milton Williams or Osawaru Odighizuwa would help round out Detroit’s front.
Offensively, the Lions don’t need much. They could look to replace Zeitler with a younger guard, like Trey Smith or Trevor Penning. A bit more receiving depth wouldn’t hurt, even if Detroit re-signs Tim Patrick.
Holmes won’t chase the top receivers early in free agency, though complementary pass-catchers like Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Nelson Agholor should interest him.
The Lions probably won’t go after every big name in 2025 free agency because their draft-and-develop strategy is working. However, they’ll likely have a few more difference-makers in tow heading into the draft.
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