By Sunday 
Detroit’s Offseason Plans Take Shape with Smart Free Agent Fits
As free agency looms, the Detroit Lions are fine-tuning their approach to roster building for the 2025 season. General manager Brad Holmes has never been one to chase after the biggest names on the market, instead prioritizing players who fit the team’s culture and long-term vision.
With this philosophy in mind, radio hosts Scott “Gator” Anderson and Doug Karsch of 97.1 The Ticket recently discussed two potential free agent targets who could seamlessly integrate into Detroit’s roster: wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and cornerback Paulson Adebo.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine: A Reliable Red-Zone Target
Westbrook-Ikhine may not be a household name, but his production with the Tennessee Titans speaks for itself. In 2024, he recorded 32 receptions for 497 yards and nine touchdowns—impressive numbers considering the Titans’ struggles at quarterback.
Karsch believes Westbrook-Ikhine’s size and skill set make him an ideal fit for Detroit’s offense.
“This guy was the third wide receiver on his previous team. He did get in the end zone quite a bit, and he is a free agent and he is big,” Karsch explained. “He’s a 6-2 receiver… They didn’t have great quarterback play. I think he could be a perfect third receiver here, and he’s down the list of available wide receivers in free agency.”
With the Lions’ affinity for bigger-bodied receivers who can contribute in multiple ways, Westbrook-Ikhine could provide much-needed depth and red-zone reliability behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.
Paulson Adebo: A Holmes-Style Defensive Addition
On the defensive side, Paulson Adebo could be another strong fit. The 6’1”, 200-pound cornerback has been a key piece of the New Orleans Saints’ secondary but is coming off a broken femur that ended his 2024 season in Week 7. While his injury history might deter some teams, Anderson believes Adebo’s age and talent level make him a classic Brad Holmes acquisition.
“If they’re not gonna re-sign Carlton Davis, as he may price himself out of it, there’s a player from the Saints, Paulson Adebo,” Anderson suggested. “He’s good-sized, 6-1, 200 pounds. And tell me this doesn’t scream Brad Holmes—he’s coming off a broken femur in Week 7, right? But this is a guy who’s been an excellent corner, and he’s only gonna be 26 years old entering the year.”
Adebo’s physical style and ability to play man coverage could make him a valuable addition to the Lions’ young secondary. If Detroit is looking for a cost-effective way to bolster their cornerback depth, he could be a prime candidate.
Smart, Low-Risk Moves for the Lions
Rather than pursuing high-priced free agents, Detroit seems poised to target players who fit specific roles within their system. Westbrook-Ikhine and Adebo may not make headlines, but their skill sets align with the Lions’ roster needs.
With free agency approaching, Brad Holmes and his staff will have key decisions to make. If history is any indication, Detroit will focus on value-driven signings that complement their already formidable roster.