Detroit Lions’ Current Roster and Needs

The Detroit Lions have made significant strides in recent years, positioning themselves as a team on the rise. After years of mediocrity, the 2023 season showed promise, with Detroit finishing 9-8 and just missing out on a playoff spot. Under head coach Dan Campbell, the Lions have developed a physical, tough, and resilient identity, but there are still areas to improve in order to compete for a division title and playoff victories in 2025 and beyond.

Strengths:

1. Offensive Line: The Lions boast one of the league’s best offensive lines, with Pro Bowlers like Frank Ragnow and Penei Sewell anchoring the unit. The ability to control the line of scrimmage and provide protection for quarterback Jared Goff has been a critical factor in Detroit’s offensive success.
2. Running Game: With D’Andre Swift, Jahmyr Gibbs, and the emergence of rookie running back Craig Reynolds, the Lions’ backfield is set to give opposing defenses fits. Their ground game can complement the passing attack, making Detroit a more balanced offense.
3. Receiving Corps: With Amon-Ra St. Brown leading the charge and Jameson Williams’ potential, the Lions have exciting talent at wide receiver. However, depth is an area that could be addressed through free agency.

Weaknesses:

1. Defensive Line: The defensive line, while solid at times, lacks the dominance needed to disrupt elite quarterbacks. They need a consistent pass-rushing threat to complement standout players like Aidan Hutchinson.
2. Cornerback: The Lions’ secondary has had ups and downs, and while Jeff Okudah has shown flashes, the team could use a lockdown corner or additional depth at this position.
3. Linebacker: Though not a glaring weakness, the linebacker corps could use more playmaking ability to complement the defensive line and secondary.
4. Depth at Key Positions: Detroit has a solid starting lineup, but depth, especially at positions like wide receiver, cornerback, and defensive line, remains a concern for the long term.

1. Defensive Line: Pass Rusher

Detroit’s pass rush, while improved with the arrival of Aidan Hutchinson, still lacks a consistent partner on the opposite side. Adding another edge rusher would give Hutchinson the ability to thrive without drawing double-teams on every play. A strong pass rush is critical for defensive success in the NFL.

Free Agent Fit: Frank Clark (Edge Rusher)

• Why Clark Fits: Frank Clark, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Kansas City Chiefs, has been a consistently productive pass rusher in the league. Despite his age (31), Clark remains a force against the pass and run. The Lions could benefit from his leadership and ability to provide immediate pressure off the edge, taking some of the burden off Hutchinson.
• Contract Considerations: Clark likely won’t command top-tier money at this stage in his career, making him a low-risk, high-reward option.

Free Agent Fit: Yannick Ngakoue (Edge Rusher)

• Why Ngakoue Fits: Ngakoue has long been a highly effective pass rusher, consistently putting up double-digit sack numbers. He has bounced around the league, but his ability to generate pressure has remained consistent. His quickness and ability to rush the passer could complement Hutchinson, forming a dynamic duo for the Lions.
• Contract Considerations: Ngakoue’s market could be soft due to his recent travels, so Detroit may be able to land him on a reasonable contract, giving them a proven edge rusher at a relatively low cost.

2. Cornerback: Shutdown Corner

The Lions have been in search of a top-tier cornerback for some time. Though Okudah shows promise, the team needs a more consistent, shutdown option. Adding a veteran cornerback would help solidify the secondary and make the Lions’ defense much more dangerous.

Free Agent Fit: Marcus Peters (Cornerback)

• Why Peters Fits: Peters is a former All-Pro and a playmaker who can make interceptions and disrupt opposing quarterbacks. He would bring leadership to a young secondary and allow Okudah to develop into a solid No. 2 corner. Peters has experience in a variety of defensive schemes, making him a good fit for the Lions’ defense.
• Contract Considerations: Though Peters is coming off an injury, his experience and talent could allow the Lions to sign him at a reasonable price, especially with the market softening.

Free Agent Fit: James Bradberry (Cornerback)

• Why Bradberry Fits: James Bradberry was a key part of the Eagles’ Super Bowl run in 2022 and has been a standout corner throughout his career. Though he’s 31, his skills remain high-level, and his physicality would mesh well with the Lions’ aggressive style. A veteran presence like Bradberry would be a massive upgrade for Detroit’s secondary.
• Contract Considerations: Bradberry would likely demand a higher salary due to his reputation and recent success, but Detroit could make it work if they structure the contract to be front-loaded.

3. Linebacker: Playmaker in the Middle

The linebacker position for the Lions is solid, but adding a dynamic playmaker would elevate their defense. The Lions need someone who can cover ground, make tackles, and potentially disrupt plays with sacks or interceptions.

Free Agent Fit: Bobby Wagner (Linebacker)

• Why Wagner Fits: Bobby Wagner is one of the most respected linebackers in the league. Though he’s nearing the end of his career, he remains a high-impact player who can provide leadership, strong coverage, and tackle efficiency. A one- or two-year deal could give the Lions a stabilizing force in the middle of their defense.
• Contract Considerations: Wagner might be willing to take a shorter contract with a contender like the Lions. His wealth of experience could be invaluable to Detroit’s younger players.

Free Agent Fit: Lavonte David (Linebacker)

• Why David Fits: Lavonte David has been one of the NFL’s best linebackers for over a decade. His ability to cover, tackle, and make plays in the middle of the field would bring a much-needed presence to Detroit’s defense. Although David is 33 years old, his football IQ and leadership are invaluable assets.
• Contract Considerations: A veteran’s minimum or short-term deal could work for David, and Detroit could offer him the opportunity to finish his career on a competitive team.

4. Wide Receiver: Depth and Experience

The Lions are solid at wide receiver with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, but adding depth and experience could help elevate the group. An experienced slot receiver or a deep-threat option would help diversify the offense and give Jared Goff more weapons.

Free Agent Fit: Jarvis Landry (Wide Receiver)

• Why Landry Fits: Landry is a veteran slot receiver with a strong catch radius and excellent route-running skills. His experience would be invaluable to a Lions team looking to make a playoff push. He could also help Goff move the chains on crucial third downs.
• Contract Considerations: Landry is coming off an injury-riddled season, but if healthy, he could be a low-cost, high-value addition to the Lions’ receiving corps.

Free Agent Fit: Odell Beckham Jr. (Wide Receiver)

• Why Beckham Fits: Odell Beckham Jr. is a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field and create mismatches with his speed and ball skills. Adding Beckham to the mix would give the Lions another elite receiving weapon alongside St. Brown and Williams.
• Contract Considerations: Beckham would likely demand a higher price, but a one- or two-year deal could make him a viable option for Detroit. The risk could pay off if Beckham stays healthy.

The Detroit Lions are a team on the rise, and with some well-timed moves in free agency, they could quickly become a legitimate contender in the NFC. Adding playmakers to their defensive line, secondary, linebacker corps, and receiving corps would provide the depth and experience they need to compete at a higher level.

In particular, players like Frank Clark, Marcus Peters, Bobby Wagner, and Jarvis Landry would offer a mix of leadership and talent that could propel the Lions into playoff contention. Given their relatively healthy cap space and the team’s upward trajectory, the Lions should be active in pursuing these free-agent fits.

With these additions, Detroit could address its remaining weaknesses and make a strong push for both division and playoff success in 2025 and beyond.