By Blessing 
As training camp approaches, the Detroit Lions may not be done fine-tuning their roster—particularly when it comes to adding experienced depth. While the team returns with a high-powered offense that led the league in scoring last season, and several key defenders are expected back from injury, there’s still room to bring in savvy veterans who could make a difference.
General Manager Brad Holmes has already built a strong foundation, but there’s still an opportunity to solidify weak spots before camp kicks off. Two free agents, in particular, stand out as potential contributors who could raise the floor—and possibly the ceiling—of this Lions squad.
WR Keenan Allen
Last season, Keenan Allen found himself in unfamiliar territory after being traded to the Chicago Bears following an impressive career with the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite catching passes from a rookie quarterback in Caleb Williams, Allen still managed to post a respectable 70 receptions for 744 yards. However, he was released before free agency officially began, and now he’s still looking for his next landing spot.
For the Lions, Allen could be an ideal fit as a reliable veteran presence in a youthful receiving room led by Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. Adding Allen to the mix would not only provide quarterback Jared Goff with another sure-handed target, but also bring invaluable experience to a team with serious postseason ambitions.
While Allen may not be the game-breaking deep threat he once was, his production hasn’t completely fallen off. Just two seasons ago, he hauled in 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven touchdowns in his final campaign with the Chargers. His route-running, football IQ, and calm under pressure could be a major asset, especially in crucial third-down or red zone situations.
He might not be the Lions’ WR1 or WR2, but as a third option or even a steady locker room presence, Allen brings more than stats—he brings leadership.
OL Brandon Scherff
On the other side of the ball, the Lions’ offensive line is in a bit of a transition. With veteran guard Kevin Zeitler heading to the Tennessee Titans and longtime center Frank Ragnow announcing his retirement, the interior of Detroit’s offensive line is thinner than it’s been in years.
That’s where Brandon Scherff enters the conversation.
A five-time Pro Bowler and a 2020 First-Team All-Pro selection, Scherff has quietly remained one of the NFL’s more consistent and durable linemen. He’s played every game over the last three seasons and has adapted well across different systems and teams.
Although he hasn’t been selected for the Pro Bowl since 2021, his level of play has remained steady. If signed, Scherff could bring immediate stability to a unit now tasked with protecting one of the league’s most efficient offenses.
With Graham Glasgow likely stepping in at center, the Lions could use a reliable veteran next to him. Having a proven presence like Scherff could help smooth the transition for younger linemen and keep Detroit’s offensive engine humming.
In a year with big expectations, these two seasoned pros could be exactly what the Lions need to make a deep run.