How the Detroit Lions Might Address Key Positions This Offseason: Breaking Down CB, OL, and More
As the NFL offseason kicks into gear, the Detroit Lions find themselves in an exciting position. After a strong season in 2024 that saw them make significant strides both offensively and defensively, the Lions are looking to further solidify their roster in hopes of making a deep playoff run in the coming years. However, there are key positions that need addressing this offseason in order for Detroit to take the next step—most notably cornerback (CB), offensive line (OL), and a few other areas of need.
Let’s break down these positions and how the Lions might approach filling the gaps.
Cornerback (CB): Strengthening the Secondary
The cornerback position is arguably the Lions’ most pressing need this offseason. While the team has some promising pieces in their secondary, they’ve struggled at times to consistently lock down opposing wide receivers, especially against high-powered passing attacks. The lack of a true No. 1 cornerback has been a noticeable weakness, and upgrading this position is key for Detroit if they want to improve their defense.
Free Agency Options:
The free agent market could present a few solid options for the Lions to bring in a veteran presence at cornerback. Some of the top free agent corners this year include Jamel Dean (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), James Bradberry (Philadelphia Eagles), and Marcus Peters (Baltimore Ravens). These players bring not only skill and consistency but also leadership that could help solidify the back end of Detroit’s defense.
Signing a proven cornerback in free agency would allow the Lions to avoid reaching for a corner in the draft and provide a reliable starter to pair with the developing talent already on the roster. While it’s a competitive market, Detroit has the cap space and the motivation to make a splash.
NFL Draft Strategy:
The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature a deep class of cornerbacks, with names like Kool-Aid McKinstry (Alabama) and Kelee Ringo (Georgia) drawing interest from teams in need of immediate help in the secondary. Detroit might target a cornerback in the first or second round to secure a future starter and build depth behind their veteran cornerbacks.
If the Lions decide to go for a cornerback in the draft, they could prioritize athleticism and ball skills, as the NFC North boasts a number of potent receivers who can pose a challenge throughout the season. The right rookie could help give the Lions’ defense the edge they need to compete with some of the league’s best offenses.
Offensive Line (OL): Protecting Goff and Opening Running Lanes
While the Lions’ offensive line has been one of the team’s strengths in recent years, there are areas for improvement that could help them take their offense to the next level. Quarterback Jared Goff is more effective when he has time in the pocket to survey the field, and the team’s running game, led by Jamaal Williams and David Montgomery, needs consistent push upfront to thrive. The Lions are still looking to build a more dominant offensive line, particularly in the interior.
Free Agency Options:
In terms of free agents, Mike McGlinchey (San Francisco 49ers) and Ben Powers (Baltimore Ravens) could help improve the Lions’ offensive line, especially in areas where they have been lacking. McGlinchey is an experienced right tackle who has excelled at creating space in the running game and could solidify the Lions’ offensive front. Powers, a versatile guard, could help Detroit strengthen the interior of the line and provide protection for Goff.
Signing a high-caliber player in free agency would provide an instant upgrade and solidify the trenches, where the Lions are looking to dominate in the NFC North.
NFL Draft Strategy:
The 2025 draft is expected to feature several talented offensive linemen, and Detroit could look to add youth and depth to their line. If the Lions decide to go the draft route, they could target Peter Skoronski (Northwestern) or Paris Johnson Jr. (Ohio State), both of whom are top-tier prospects who could immediately contribute on the offensive line.
Detroit may consider adding a versatile interior offensive lineman to help improve the pass protection and run-blocking game. With Goff in his prime and the team having a solid running back rotation, it’s crucial for the Lions to invest in a line that can protect their assets and allow the offense to fully thrive.
Defensive Line: A Push for More Pressure
While Detroit’s defensive line showed flashes of dominance, it remains an area that needs more consistency, particularly in terms of generating a consistent pass rush. While players like Aidan Hutchinson have been impactful, the Lions need more help to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Adding depth to the defensive line and ensuring they have enough talent to rotate and maintain fresh legs throughout the season will be vital to their success in 2025.
Free Agency Options:
The Lions could explore the free-agent market for a veteran pass rusher to complement Hutchinson. Players like Jadeveon Clowney (Cleveland Browns) or Frank Clark (Kansas City Chiefs) could bring a wealth of experience and the ability to get after the quarterback. Adding a veteran edge rusher could be an efficient way to immediately bolster the pass rush and help Detroit’s defense get off the field quicker.
NFL Draft Strategy:
If the Lions choose to draft a defensive lineman, they could target an interior defensive lineman like Bryan Bresee (Clemson) or Jalen Carter (Georgia) who can create pressure from the middle and collapse the pocket. A talented defensive lineman can complement Hutchinson and make Detroit’s defensive front far more dangerous.
Linebacker (LB): Filling the Gaps
The linebacker position is another spot where Detroit could look to improve. The Lions have some solid players in their linebacker corps, but the group as a whole still lacks a true game-changing presence. Having a linebacker capable of stopping the run, covering tight ends, and providing leadership is something the team will likely prioritize this offseason.
Free Agency Options:
The Lions could look at some of the more experienced linebackers available in free agency. Bobby Wagner (Los Angeles Rams) or Tremaine Edmunds (Buffalo Bills) could be the kind of playmakers who could immediately improve the linebacker unit and bring veteran leadership to a young defense.
NFL Draft Strategy:
In the draft, players like Trenton Simpson (Clemson) or Jack Campbell (Iowa) could be options in the first or second round. Both of these linebackers have the athleticism and instinct to become impactful starters who could help Detroit shore up its defense, particularly in coverage situations.