The Detroit Lions enter May with one of the NFL’s most complete rosters. After an impressive 15-2 season despite constant injuries, the team looks primed for a Super Bowl push. But as any contender knows, depth matters — especially when injuries strike. Fortunately for Detroit, several high-impact free agents are still available who could help fill critical gaps.
Here’s a look at three free agents the Lions should target before the 2025 season kicks off:
1. DE Za’Darius Smith
This one feels like unfinished business. Smith, who came to Detroit at last season’s trade deadline, didn’t have ideal circumstances — stepping into a depleted defense and being asked to produce immediately. Still, he finished the year with nine sacks overall (four in Detroit) and ranked 21st out of 211 edge rushers in pass rushing per PFF. Pairing Smith next to Aidan Hutchinson full-time would give Detroit one of the NFL’s most dangerous pass-rushing duos. A reunion makes perfect sense.
2. S Justin Simmons
At 31, Simmons could be the veteran insurance Detroit’s secondary needs. When injuries hit the cornerback room, Brian Branch often shifts to corner — leaving a hole at safety. Behind Kerby Joseph and Branch, depth is thin. Simmons, who had two interceptions and seven pass deflections last year with Atlanta, would be a dependable plug-in option. His market value sits around $5.7 million for one year, and Detroit could benefit from his experience and versatility.
3. LB Eric Kendricks
Linebacker was the Lions’ Achilles heel last season when injuries hit hard. Kendricks, a longtime Vikings standout, quietly had one of his best years in 2024 with 138 tackles. PFF ranked him 12th among 189 linebackers in pass rush and 33rd in run defense. At age 33, he could provide excellent rotational depth and leadership — and at around $6.7 million for a year, his value fits both the need and the budget.
The Lions are already built to contend — but adding these three veterans would help make sure they can weather the inevitable bumps along the road to February.
These 3 Signings Could Complete the Lions’ Super Bowl Roster
