Best Remaining Outside Linebacker Free Agent Available for the Detroit Lions

As the NFL offseason progresses, the Detroit Lions are looking to bolster their roster, particularly in areas that could provide immediate impact on both the defense and special teams. One of the most critical positions in modern NFL defenses is the outside linebacker (OLB), and the Lions have a key opportunity to address this position as they move closer to the 2025 season. While the Lions have already made some strides to improve their defense, adding a top-tier outside linebacker could elevate their pass rush and defensive versatility.

In this article, we’ll analyze the current state of the Lions’ outside linebacker corps and examine the best remaining OLB free agents who could help solidify their defense. With key additions already made in free agency and the draft, bringing in a solid veteran at the OLB position could be a game-changer for the team’s defense, which will have to face elite quarterbacks and offenses in the NFC North and beyond.

Detroit Lions’ Outside Linebacker Corps in 2025

Before diving into the available free agents, it’s important to take stock of the current situation on the Lions’ depth chart. As of 2025, the Lions have made several notable moves in their linebacker room. They have developed a solid base with young talent but still have areas where they could use reinforcements.

Key Players on the Lions’ Current Outside Linebacker Depth Chart:

1. Aidan Hutchinson – Hutchinson, one of the most promising pass rushers in the NFL, has quickly become a leader on the Lions’ defense. As the team’s primary edge rusher, Hutchinson’s ability to collapse the pocket and generate pressure on the quarterback has been crucial to the Lions’ defensive success.
2. James Houston – Houston had a breakout season in his rookie year, showcasing his pass-rushing ability as an outside linebacker. His explosiveness off the edge made him an exciting prospect, but he will need to continue to develop in the run game and his overall defensive skill set.
3. Alex Anzalone – While Anzalone primarily plays inside linebacker, his versatility allows him to step outside in certain defensive packages. His experience and leadership will be essential in guiding younger players in the linebacking corps.
4. Malcolm Rodriguez – Rodriguez was drafted by the Lions as a promising linebacker, though he is still considered a work in progress. While not an OLB per se, Rodriguez provides solid depth and could be a factor in certain defensive schemes.
5. Derrick Barnes – A young linebacker who has shown flashes of potential, Barnes is another option for the Lions’ linebacking group. His development will be crucial for the Lions as they look for long-term answers at linebacker.

While the Lions have some talented pieces on their defense, the outside linebacker position still lacks a true veteran presence who can be counted on to bring consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and provide stability in the pass rush. With Aidan Hutchinson drawing much of the attention from opposing offenses, having another dynamic outside linebacker could free him up for more one-on-one situations and help improve the pass rush overall.

Why the Lions Need Another Outside Linebacker

Despite their improvements over the past couple of years, the Detroit Lions’ defense still ranks in the middle of the pack in several categories. The team finished 2024 with a solid defensive unit, but one area that remained inconsistent was the pass rush. Although Aidan Hutchinson’s stellar play has kept opposing offensive lines busy, the Lions’ inability to generate pressure on a consistent basis from the opposite side or from the second level of the defense can be exploited by teams with elite offensive lines.

Adding a top-notch OLB could:

• Increase Pass Rush Versatility: A second outside linebacker who can generate pressure will force opposing quarterbacks to worry about more than just Hutchinson.
• Create Matchup Problems: The Lions’ defensive coordinator can be more creative in their playcalling, utilizing different alignments and blitz packages that keep offensive lines guessing.
• Improve Run Defense: An athletic outside linebacker can be instrumental in setting the edge and stopping runs to the outside, something that’s been an area of concern for the Lions in recent seasons.
• Provide Depth: Injuries are inevitable, and having multiple reliable outside linebackers can ensure that the team isn’t forced to rely too heavily on unproven players or veterans past their prime.

Given the importance of this position, the Lions would be wise to target a free agent who can step in and contribute immediately.

Top Remaining Outside Linebacker Free Agents for the Lions

With the 2025 season approaching, there are several notable outside linebackers still available in free agency. Below are the top remaining options who could make a significant impact on the Lions’ defense.

1. Frank Clark

• Age: 31
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 255 lbs

Frank Clark is a proven pass rusher with a Super Bowl ring to his name, having played a critical role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ defense over the past several seasons. Clark is known for his ability to generate pressure in big moments and has been a consistent force on the edge. While he may no longer be in his prime, his leadership and ability to make an impact in the postseason make him an attractive veteran option for the Lions.

Clark’s skill set would complement Aidan Hutchinson’s perfectly, as Clark can be used in passing downs to disrupt quarterbacks while Hutchinson draws more attention. The veteran edge rusher’s ability to play against the run would also help the Lions shore up their defense. Given the need for experience and leadership in the linebacking corps, Clark would be a solid addition to the Detroit defense.

Why He Makes Sense for the Lions:

• Proven pass-rushing ability, including in high-pressure situations.
• Leadership and experience, particularly in the postseason.
• Can help mentor younger players like Hutchinson and Houston.

2. Justin Houston

• Age: 36
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 270 lbs

Justin Houston may be one of the oldest free agents available, but he is still a very effective pass rusher when healthy. Houston is coming off a solid season with the Baltimore Ravens, recording 9 sacks in 2024. Although he is in the twilight of his career, Houston’s ability to rush the passer and make plays in key moments is well documented. His experience could be invaluable for the Lions’ defense, especially with their young and emerging pass rushers.

While his best years are behind him, Houston would offer immediate impact as a situational pass rusher. The Lions could use him in passing-down situations, where his expertise in creating pressure would be a significant advantage. Adding Houston would also give the Lions a steady veteran presence to stabilize the edge-rushing unit.

Why He Makes Sense for the Lions:

• Consistent pass rusher with a track record of success.
• Ability to teach and mentor younger players.
• Excellent in passing situations and as a situational rusher.

3. Zach Allen

• Age: 28
• Height: 6’5″
• Weight: 280 lbs

Zach Allen is a versatile defensive player who has been a steady presence on the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive line. Though primarily known as a defensive end, Allen has the physical traits to transition to an outside linebacker role, especially in a 3-4 defensive scheme. His size, strength, and ability to play the run while rushing the passer make him an intriguing option for the Lions.

Allen is still in his prime, and his ability to rush from multiple positions on the field makes him a versatile option for Detroit’s defensive coordinator. If the Lions decide to run more hybrid fronts, Allen could be a great addition, offering flexibility and depth to their pass-rush unit.

Why He Makes Sense for the Lions:

• Physical traits make him a good fit as an outside linebacker.
• Versatility to play in multiple defensive alignments.
• High upside at just 28 years old.

4. Melvin Ingram

• Age: 35
• Height: 6’2″
• Weight: 250 lbs

Another veteran presence, Melvin Ingram, has been a solid pass rusher for most of his career. Though his age may be a concern, Ingram’s experience and ability to rush the quarterback remain high. He played a solid role for the Miami Dolphins in 2024, and while he may not be a full-time starter at this point in his career, his ability to contribute as a situational rusher could be valuable for the Lions.

Ingram’s leadership, high football IQ, and ability to bring consistent pressure on the quarterback make him a potential target for the Lions. Adding him to the roster would provide the defense with another experienced pass rusher and leadership in the linebacker room.

Why He Makes Sense for the Lions:

• Veteran leadership and excellent pass-rush skills.
• Can contribute in specific pass-rushing situations.
• Experience in high-stakes games, including the postseason.

The Detroit Lions have made significant improvements to their defense over the past few seasons, but they still need that extra edge to contend with some of the NFL’s top offenses. Adding a free-agent outside linebacker could provide the team with the depth and experience they need to elevate their defense to the next level. Whether it’s a proven veteran like Frank Clark or Justin Houston, or a younger player with untapped potential like Zach Allen, the Lions have several strong options available.

The key for Detroit is finding the right player who can complement Aidan Hutchinson, provide stability, and give the Lions a reliable pass-rushing threat from the outside. The right addition could make all the difference for the Lions’ defense in 2025 and beyond.