By Blessing 
Could the Lions Be Eyeing Key Additions Ahead of Training Camp?
The Detroit Lions enter the 2025 season with one of the most balanced rosters in the league. But even with all their progress, there’s still room to bolster certain spots before training camp kicks off.
No NFL team is ever truly complete, and Detroit might benefit from adding a few seasoned veterans—either to strengthen depth or spark some healthy competition. With that in mind, Lions Wire recently spotlighted several free agents who could make a meaningful impact if brought on board.
Two notable names leading that list are Za’Darius Smith, a proven defensive end, and Brandon Scherff, a veteran offensive lineman. Both have been repeatedly linked to Detroit throughout the offseason, and both fill positions where experience could make all the difference.
Following Frank Ragnow’s retirement and the possibility of Graham Glasgow sliding over to center, the Lions suddenly find themselves in need of reliable depth at guard. That’s where someone like Scherff could be a game-changer. With Detroit’s current options at guard—including Christian Mahogany and Tate Ratledge—lacking substantial NFL experience, Scherff’s presence could provide much-needed stability.
As Jeff Risdon put it:
> “The veteran guard remains a durable bedrock presence at guard. While he’s no longer the perennial Pro Bowler he was in his Washington heyday, the 33-year-old Scherff still played strong all-around ball in Jacksonville the last few seasons. He’d be a natural plug-and-play replacement for Kevin Zeitler at right guard.”
On the defensive side, Matt Judon could be a compelling option. Although 2024 wasn’t his best year with Atlanta, his track record shows he’s capable of elite production when healthy.
Risdon noted:
> “Judon bagged 15.5 sacks playing OLB for New England in 2022 and was leading the NFL in sacks in 2023 before suffering a torn biceps in Week 4. The Detroit native didn’t click in Atlanta in 2024 (no one did!), but if he’s got a late-career rebound in him, Judon’s length and craftiness at EDGE are exactly what the Lions covet at the position.”
Beyond Smith, Scherff, and Judon, other names like tight end Gerald Everett and cornerback Mike Hilton were also mentioned as potential fits.
With camp around the corner, it remains to be seen whether the Lions will make a splash. But with proven talent still available, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Detroit make one more key move to strengthen their already solid foundation.