5 Super Bowl LIX Free Agents Who Could Be on the Lions’ Radar
With Super Bowl LIX in the rearview mirror, the Detroit Lions are shifting their focus to the 2025 offseason. The Lions are in a solid position, sitting top-10 in the league in cap space. However, as they look to get over the playoff hump, they’ll need to make smart moves in free agency. Known for being calculated spenders, the Lions will target players who not only fill specific needs but also align with the team’s culture and overall direction.
For the Lions, having just played in the Super Bowl can be a compelling factor when evaluating free agents. That playoff pedigree might give certain players an edge, especially if they’ve shown they can contribute at the highest level. So, who from the Super Bowl LIX teams could pique Detroit’s interest? Here are five players to keep an eye on as the Lions plan their next moves:
1. Jack Driscoll (Eagles OG/OT)
Driscoll’s name might not be on everyone’s radar due to his absence from the Super Bowl, thanks to an ankle injury that put him on IR before the playoffs. However, over the course of his five seasons with the Eagles, Driscoll has shown he can be a versatile piece on the offensive line. He’s made starts at both tackle spots and at right guard, making him a valuable depth option.
While he hasn’t started much in 2024, he could provide the Lions with a solid backup option capable of filling in at multiple positions when needed. The Lions have a strong offensive line but adding another capable backup who can step into various roles would only strengthen their depth. Driscoll’s ability to provide flexibility and depth makes him a low-risk, high-reward candidate for Detroit.
2. Darius Slay (Eagles CB)
Although Slay’s name has been floated around the league for some time, his history with the Lions makes him an interesting candidate for a return. The 32-year-old cornerback has been an integral part of the Eagles’ secondary, playing a crucial role in their defensive success. With the Lions looking to improve their pass defense, a reunion with Slay could provide a veteran presence in the secondary, helping guide younger players like Jeff Okudah.
Slay’s familiarity with Detroit’s culture and the experience he brings from the Eagles’ Super Bowl run could be a perfect match for a defense aiming to take the next step. With his leadership and playmaking ability, Slay could be just the type of veteran the Lions need to elevate their defense.
3. Brennan Scarlett (Chiefs EDGE)
The Chiefs’ defense has been one of the more underrated units in recent years, and Brennan Scarlett has quietly been a contributor as an edge rusher. With the Lions struggling to generate pressure outside of Aidan Hutchinson, adding a rotational pass rusher like Scarlett could help Detroit’s defensive line. While Scarlett may not be a marquee name, his ability to contribute as a situational rusher could fit well with the Lions’ defense.
Scarlett’s experience with a Super Bowl-winning team would bring a fresh mindset to the Lions’ defensive unit, especially if they want to continue to build on the foundation Hutchinson has set. Given the Lions’ need for more pass-rushing depth, Scarlett’s proven ability to affect the quarterback could make him a valuable addition.
4. Jarran Reed (Chiefs DT)
Reed has been a reliable defensive tackle for the Chiefs, contributing both as a run-stopper and a pass rusher. The Lions have a solid defensive line but could use more depth and versatility, particularly against the run. Reed’s ability to clog up running lanes and his strong play in the trenches make him an appealing option.
Adding Reed would provide the Lions with a veteran presence next to players like Levi Onwuzurike, helping shore up their interior defensive line. His experience in big games, including a Super Bowl appearance, could make him an ideal fit for a Lions team looking to build on its defensive success and improve its depth up front.
5. Jerick McKinnon (Chiefs RB)
The Lions are already deep at running back with the likes of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs, but adding a veteran like McKinnon could offer them even more flexibility. McKinnon is an excellent receiving back, capable of creating mismatches in the passing game. His role in Kansas City’s offense has been invaluable, and he’s proven to be a reliable playmaker when called upon.
For the Lions, McKinnon could bring a change-of-pace option in their backfield, offering a dual-threat presence both as a runner and receiver. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways would give Detroit’s offense another weapon, and his experience in playoff atmospheres would be invaluable as the Lions continue to build for the future.
These five players from the Super Bowl LIX teams all bring different skill sets to the table, but each of them could provide significant value to the Detroit Lions in free agency. Whether it’s adding depth to the offensive line, bolstering the defensive line, or enhancing the backfield, these free agents offer a mix of experience, versatility, and leadership that aligns with Detroit’s long-term goals.
From the Super Bowl to the Motor City? 5 Free Agents the Lions Could Target
