In free agency, the Detroit Lions might target defensive lineman, right guards, and cornerbacks.

As the Detroit Lions gear up for the upcoming NFL season, free agency remains a crucial period for bolstering the team and addressing positional needs. The Lions have shown tremendous growth under head coach Dan Campbell, but their journey is far from complete. With several gaps on their roster, Detroit will likely focus on key positions during free agency, particularly defensive line, right guard, and cornerback. Let’s delve into each of these positions and analyze potential targets for the Lions.

Defensive Line

The defensive line is one of the most important units for the Detroit Lions as they seek to become a more consistent and formidable team on defense. Detroit’s defense showed improvement in 2023, but consistency has been an issue, especially when it comes to generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks and stopping the run. A lack of a dominant pass rusher has hampered the team for years, and it’s likely that Detroit will target free agents who can make an immediate impact along the defensive front.

1. Javon Hargrave (DT, San Francisco 49ers)

One of the top defensive tackles available in free agency, Hargrave would bring a significant boost to the Lions’ defensive line. Hargrave, who had a career year with the 49ers in 2023, has proven he can be a dominant force both as a pass rusher and a run stopper. His versatility, strong technique, and ability to disrupt plays would fit well into Detroit’s defensive scheme.

With a projected contract worth a high price tag, the Lions may face competition for Hargrave’s services, but if they are serious about upgrading their defensive line, Hargrave would be a standout addition. Pairing him with a young player like Aidan Hutchinson would create a dynamic duo capable of wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks.

2. Daron Payne (DT, Washington Commanders)

Another powerful and disruptive interior defender, Daron Payne is entering free agency after a stellar season with the Washington Commanders. Payne has been a mainstay on Washington’s defensive front and would provide Detroit with a physical presence in the middle of the line. The Lions need someone who can clog running lanes while also applying pressure on quarterbacks, and Payne’s ability to do both makes him an ideal target.

Though Payne could also command a hefty contract, Detroit’s defensive needs make him a legitimate option. His skill set would complement Hutchinson on the edge and provide the Lions with a more balanced defensive line.

3. Fletcher Cox (DT, Philadelphia Eagles)

While not in his prime anymore, Cox is still a very effective player and could bring veteran leadership to a relatively young defensive line. Known for his ability to control the line of scrimmage and generate pass rush, Cox would provide Detroit with a seasoned anchor in the middle. His experience in big games, especially during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, would add value to a Lions team looking to make playoff pushes in the future.

While Cox may not be a long-term solution, his impact could be immediate, and his presence might help develop younger players on the defensive line.

Right Guard

The offensive line has been an area of strength for the Detroit Lions in recent seasons. However, while the left side of the line, featuring tackles Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell, is strong, the right guard spot has been a revolving door. Improving this position would provide Jared Goff with more protection in the pocket and help open up running lanes for the talented backfield, which includes David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Free agency could provide the Lions with the perfect opportunity to solidify this position.

1. Ben Powers (OG, Denver Broncos)

Ben Powers would be one of the top targets for the Lions in free agency if they are looking to shore up the right guard position. Powers had a solid season with the Denver Broncos, showcasing strong pass protection and run-blocking skills. His toughness and versatility make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ scheme. Additionally, Powers has experience playing in various offensive systems, which could help him acclimate quickly to Detroit’s offense.

Powers’ ability to anchor against powerful defensive linemen while also being nimble enough to pull and create lanes for the running game would make him a massive upgrade over the current options at right guard. He may come at a significant cost, but his long-term potential is evident.

2. Isaiah Wynn (OG, New England Patriots)

Isaiah Wynn has had a bit of a rollercoaster career with the New England Patriots but has shown flashes of being a high-quality offensive lineman when healthy. While injuries have been an issue for Wynn in recent seasons, when on the field, he’s displayed solid pass protection skills and decent run blocking. Wynn would bring a level of versatility to Detroit, as he’s played both tackle and guard throughout his career.

Though injury concerns could temper his price tag, the Lions may find value in taking a chance on Wynn, especially if they can get him on a short-term contract. If healthy, Wynn has the ability to stabilize the right guard position and provide much-needed stability along the offensive line.

3. Nate Davis (OG, Tennessee Titans)

Nate Davis is another solid option for the Lions at right guard. Davis, who has spent his entire career with the Tennessee Titans, has been known for his physicality and ability to move defenders off the ball. While Davis may not have the same level of pass protection proficiency as some other top guards, he’s excellent in the run game, which fits Detroit’s identity as a team that prides itself on ground-and-pound football.

Davis would be an affordable option compared to other top guards and could be a perfect fit for the Lions’ scheme. His addition would improve the Lions’ offensive line and give Detroit an even stronger presence in the run game, complementing their talented backfield.

Cornerbacks

The cornerback position is another area where the Detroit Lions need to improve. While the team has a solid group of defensive backs, consistency has been an issue, particularly when it comes to coverage against top-tier wide receivers. With Detroit’s pass rush still developing, solidifying the secondary could help take the defense to the next level. Free agency offers several opportunities to address this need, and the Lions will likely pursue one or more cornerbacks to improve the back end of their defense.

1. Jamel Dean (CB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Jamel Dean is one of the top cornerbacks available in free agency, and he could be an excellent fit for the Detroit Lions. Known for his size, athleticism, and ability to cover both fast and physical receivers, Dean is a reliable option in man and zone coverage. His skill set would allow the Lions to match him against top wide receivers, and his playmaking ability would provide a much-needed boost to Detroit’s secondary.

Dean’s physicality and ball skills make him a standout corner, and his ability to stay on the field and play consistently would be invaluable for a team looking to contend for playoff spots. While he may be one of the more expensive options available, his skill set and fit within the Lions’ defensive scheme make him a worthy investment.

2. James Bradberry (CB, Philadelphia Eagles)

Bradberry, who had a productive 2023 season with the Philadelphia Eagles, is another cornerback that could be of interest to the Lions. Known for his ability to win in contested situations, his size, and his exceptional ball skills, Bradberry would provide Detroit with a veteran presence in the secondary. While Bradberry may not be as young as some of the other cornerbacks available, his experience and ability to play at a high level would benefit the Lions in the short and long term.

Bradberry could also help mentor younger cornerbacks on the roster and elevate the entire secondary. Given his experience in big games with the Eagles, he could be the type of leader that Detroit needs to take the next step in its rebuild.

3. Byron Murphy Jr. (CB, Arizona Cardinals)

Byron Murphy Jr. is a versatile cornerback who can play both inside and outside. Murphy has consistently shown his ability to be a lockdown defender and disrupt plays in the passing game. He is particularly strong in zone coverage but can also match up with wide receivers in man-to-man situations. His ability to adjust to various defensive schemes would make him a valuable asset to the Lions’ defense.

Murphy’s ability to create turnovers and break up passes would significantly improve the Lions’ secondary. If Detroit is looking for a younger option who can make an immediate impact, Murphy would be a strong addition.

As the Detroit Lions continue to build their roster for a future playoff run, targeting key positions in free agency is crucial. The defensive line, right guard, and cornerback positions all represent areas where the Lions need to improve, and there are several high-quality free agents who could make an immediate impact.

Whether it’s adding a dominant defensive lineman like Javon Hargrave or Daron Payne, upgrading the offensive line with a player like Ben Powers or Nate Davis, or improving the secondary with a player like Jamel Dean or Byron Murphy Jr., the Lions have the opportunity to strengthen their roster and improve on their upward trajectory. With smart decisions in free agency, Detroit could be well on its way to becoming a perennial contender in the NFC.