Assessing Potential Additions to Strengthen the Quarterback Room

With the NFL Combine in the rearview mirror, the Detroit Lions’ focus now shifts to free agency. As the March 10 tampering period approaches, the front office must evaluate roster needs, including the quarterback position.

While the Lions already have three quarterbacks under contract—starter Jared Goff, second-year prospect Hendon Hooker, and backup Jake Fromm—experience beyond Goff is limited. Hooker and Fromm have taken just a handful of snaps at the professional level, leaving room for potential reinforcements.

With several intriguing quarterbacks hitting the market, Detroit must decide whether to stick with their current depth chart or bring in a veteran presence to provide insurance behind Goff. Here’s a look at three free-agent options who could fit the Lions’ needs in 2025.

1. Trey Lance (Dallas Cowboys) – A High-Upside Project

2024 Stats: 4 games (1 start), 25-of-41 passing for 266 yards, 1 INT, 11 carries for 41 yards

Trey Lance’s name has sparked mixed reactions since he was selected third overall in the 2021 NFL Draft, but his connection to the Lions’ new coaching staff could make him a viable option in Detroit. Tight ends coach Tyler Roehl was Lance’s offensive coordinator at North Dakota State, a relationship that could help the 24-year-old quarterback find a fresh start.

Despite a rough start to his NFL career, plagued by injuries and limited playing time, Lance remains a physically gifted athlete with room to grow. While his accuracy and arm strength remain concerns, he has been praised for his work ethic and football IQ.

Dallas declined his fifth-year option, making him an unrestricted free agent. His market value is projected at just $2.1 million per year—an affordable price tag for a developmental quarterback. If the Lions can bring him in at that number, he could serve as a third-stringer behind Goff and Hooker while continuing to refine his game.

2. Zach Wilson (Denver Broncos) – A Familiar Face for Detroit’s OC

2024 Stats: Did not play

Once heralded as the future of the New York Jets, Zach Wilson’s NFL journey has taken an unexpected turn. After being traded to Denver, he spent the 2024 season as a third-string quarterback behind Bo Nix and did not see a single snap.

However, Wilson’s past connection with Detroit’s new offensive coordinator, John Morton—who worked as Denver’s passing game coordinator last season—could make him a logical addition. At just 25 years old, he still has starting experience, having made 33 career starts in the NFL.

Wilson’s play style has some similarities to Goff’s: he operates best in the pocket and thrives in play-action situations. However, his struggles with accuracy and decision-making have held him back from becoming a reliable starter. While Detroit isn’t looking for a starting quarterback, Wilson’s experience could make him a strong competitor for the backup role.

Spotrac projects Wilson’s market value at around $3.3 million per year—higher than Lance’s but still reasonable for a veteran backup with starting experience. If the Lions are looking for an immediate No. 2 behind Goff, Wilson could be their guy.

3. Kyle Trask (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) – A Reliable Sideline Presence

2024 Stats: 4 games (0 starts), 1-of-1 passing for 5 yards, 5 kneeldowns

Kyle Trask has spent the last four seasons in Tampa Bay as a backup to Tom Brady and Baker Mayfield. His actual game reps have been minimal, but his presence as a film-study asset and sideline analyst has made him valuable to the Buccaneers.

Trask is a traditional pocket passer with solid accuracy and a good understanding of defensive schemes. However, he struggles under pressure and lacks the physical tools to be a game-changing quarterback.

If signed, Trask would be direct competition for Jake Fromm for the third-string role. His expected price tag is around $1.5 million per year, making him a low-cost addition for depth purposes.

Final Thoughts: Who Should the Lions Target?

Detroit’s decision will depend on what they value most in a backup quarterback. If they want an athletic, high-upside project, Trey Lance could be the best choice. If they prefer a more experienced passer with ties to the new offensive system, Zach Wilson makes sense. Meanwhile, Kyle Trask offers a stable and affordable option for a third-string role.

With free agency approaching, the Lions’ front office will need to weigh their options carefully to ensure they have the right mix of talent, experience, and potential behind Goff in 2025.