The Detroit Lions are no longer a rebuilding team — they’re firmly in Super Bowl contention. That changes how general manager Brad Holmes approaches free agency.
Instead of searching for developmental players, the Lions are now looking for impact additions who can push the roster over the top. Detroit already has a strong core built around stars like Aidan Hutchinson, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Penei Sewell, but there are still areas that could use upgrades.
Here’s a free agency big board highlighting the top five potential targets at every key position of need for Detroit.
EDGE Rusher Targets
Finding help opposite Hutchinson remains one of Detroit’s biggest priorities.
Top Targets
Josh Sweat – Elite pressure generator who could immediately boost Detroit’s pass rush.
Chase Young – High-upside pass rusher if the Lions want a swing-for-the-fences signing.
Brian Burns – Explosive edge defender who could form a terrifying duo with Hutchinson.
Josh Uche – A situational pass-rush specialist who could thrive in Detroit’s scheme.
Za’Darius Smith – Veteran presence who still produces pressure consistently.
Adding a reliable edge defender would make life much easier for Hutchinson, who often faces double teams.
Cornerback Targets
Detroit improved defensively last season, but the secondary still needs depth and consistency.
Top Targets
Jaylon Johnson – A shutdown corner capable of transforming the Lions’ secondary.
L’Jarius Sneed – Physical, versatile defensive back with championship experience.
Kendall Fuller – Reliable veteran who excels in coverage and leadership.
Awuzie Chidobe – Experienced corner with strong man-coverage ability.
Adoree’ Jackson – Athletic defender who could add speed to Detroit’s secondary.
A true No. 1 corner would allow the Lions defense to become much more aggressive.
Defensive Line (Interior) Targets
Stopping the run and collapsing the pocket from the interior remains another focus area.
Top Targets
Chris Jones – A dream signing who would instantly dominate the middle of Detroit’s defensive line.
Christian Wilkins – Powerful interior defender with strong pass-rush ability.
Leonard Williams – Proven veteran who can disrupt both run and pass plays.
Grover Stewart – Elite run stopper who could strengthen Detroit’s defensive front.
DJ Reader – Physical interior presence capable of anchoring the defensive line.
Adding interior pressure would make Detroit’s entire defense more dangerous.
Offensive Line Depth
The Lions’ offensive line is one of the league’s best, but injuries can quickly change that.
Top Targets
Tyron Smith – Veteran tackle who could provide elite protection if healthy.
Jonah Williams – Young offensive lineman with positional flexibility.
Connor Williams – Athletic interior lineman who excels in pass protection.
Kevin Zeitler – Experienced guard who brings toughness and reliability.
Lloyd Cushenberry – Strong center option if Detroit ever needs interior help.
Protecting quarterback Jared Goff remains critical to the offense’s success.
Wide Receiver Depth
Detroit already has a star receiver in St. Brown, but another weapon could elevate the offense even further.
Top Targets
Tee Higgins – Big-bodied receiver who would give Detroit a true outside threat.
Mike Evans – Elite veteran playmaker who could dominate in the red zone.
Calvin Ridley – Explosive route runner capable of stretching the field.
Marquise Brown – Speed threat who could add a deep-ball dimension.
Tyler Boyd – Reliable slot receiver who excels on third downs.
Another playmaker alongside St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs could make Detroit’s offense nearly unstoppable.
Final Thoughts
The Lions have built one of the most exciting rosters in football, but free agency could determine whether they become legitimate Super Bowl favorites.
If Brad Holmes targets the right players at the right positions, Detroit could strengthen the few remaining weaknesses on the roster and take another major step forward.
For a team that’s already knocking on the door of a championship, the right offseason moves could finally push the Lions all the way through it. 🦁🔥
The Ultimate Lions Free Agency Big Board: Top 5 Fits at Every Position
