NFC North Free Agency Recap: Lions Stay Focused on Retaining Core
The first wave of free agency is in the books, and the Detroit Lions stayed true to their roster-building philosophy—draft, develop, and re-sign. While other NFC North teams made splashy signings, Detroit focused on retaining key players and adding a few strategic pieces.
Lions’ Free Agency Moves
Key Re-Signings: LB Derrick Barnes, DT Levi Onwuzurike, DE Marcus Davenport, WR Tim Patrick, LB Anthony Pittman, LB Ezekiel Turner, DL Myles Adams
Notable Additions: CB D.J. Reed, DT Roy Lopez, LB Grant Stuard
Departures: CB Carlton Davis III, G Kevin Zeitler, S Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB Kindle Vildor
Adding Reed helps soften the loss of Davis, especially with Detroit’s young CB group now featuring Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr.. Re-signing Patrick solidifies the WR3 role, while new additions bring depth and competition to the defense.
With Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jared Goff, and Alim McNeill already locked in on big deals, the Lions are prioritizing extensions for Aidan Hutchinson and Kerby Joseph, with Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch not far behind.
Expect Detroit to target a veteran guard in the coming weeks while continuing to build through the draft.
Tracking the NFC North’s Biggest Moves in the Opening Days of Free Agency
