The Detroit Lions continue to explore veteran help for their pass rush ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, hosting free-agent edge rusher DeMarcus Walker for a visit last week, according to ESPN.
Walker, who started all 17 games for the Bears in 2024, has quietly carved out a solid career as a rotational pressure generator. Though not a sack machine—he’s posted 3.5 sacks in each of the past two seasons—he’s racked up 48 QB hits over the last three years and has logged 30+ pressures in four straight seasons. His most productive year came in 2022 with the Titans when he recorded seven sacks.
Detroit’s interest makes sense. Injuries hit the Lions’ defensive line hard down the stretch last year, with key players like Hutchinson, McNeill, Davenport, and Wingo all sidelined. While most of those names are expected back, the team is clearly looking to fortify its depth. Adding someone like Walker could also free up guys like Josh Paschal to shift inside more often—a move GM Brad Holmes hinted at during the NFL owners meetings.
The Lions may still target an EDGE early in the draft, but a move like this would help stabilize the rotation and add proven experience in the trenches.
Lions Host Veteran Pass Rusher DeMarcus Walker for Free Agent Visit
