Lions free agency tracker: Depth a concern for team ravaged by injuries last seasonLions free agency tracker: Depth a concern for team ravaged by injuries last season

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Lions free agency tracker: Depth a concern for team ravaged by injuries last season

The Detroit Lions entered the 2025 offseason with a clear goal: strengthen their roster depth after a season plagued by injuries. Despite a strong playoff run in 2024, the team struggled with key losses throughout the year, especially in the secondary and along the defensive line. This offseason, Detroit’s front office focused on adding reinforcements across the board while retaining key contributors. Here’s a look at their most significant moves in free agency.

Cornerback Overhaul

One of the Lions’ biggest weaknesses in 2024 was their secondary, as injuries and inconsistent play hampered the defense. In response, the team aggressively pursued upgrades in free agency:

  • D.J. Reed (CB) – The Lions signed Reed to a three-year, $48 million contract to replace Carlton Davis, who departed for the New England Patriots. Reed brings valuable experience from his time with the New York Jets and Seattle Seahawks.
  • Rock Ya-Sin (CB) – Another addition to the secondary, Ya-Sin provides depth and special teams contributions after a stint with the San Francisco 49ers.
  • Avonte Maddox (CB) – Maddox’s versatility allows him to play both outside and in the slot, further improving Detroit’s secondary depth.

Defensive Line Reinforcements

The Lions struggled at times to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2024. To address this, they made several key signings:

  • Levi Onwuzurike (DT) – After a career-best season with 28 tackles and 1.5 sacks, Onwuzurike was re-signed on a one-year, $5.5 million deal.
  • Roy Lopez (DT) – Added to bolster the interior defensive line and improve run-stopping efficiency.
  • Marcus Davenport (DE) – Re-signed after injuries limited his production in 2024, Detroit is betting on his upside as a pass rusher.
  • Al-Quadin Muhammad (DE) – The former Chicago Bears lineman provides rotational depth at defensive end.
  • Pat O’Connor (DT) – Re-signed to maintain depth in the trenches.

Linebacker and Special Teams Additions

Depth at linebacker was another area of focus for the Lions:

  • Anthony Pittman (LB) – Re-signed for his special teams contributions and rotational role on defense.
  • Grant Stuard (LB) – Signed to strengthen Detroit’s special teams unit and provide additional linebacker depth.
  • Derrick Barnes (LB) – Extended his contract through 2027, ensuring stability at the position.

Offensive Signings

While the Lions’ offense was one of the league’s best in 2024, the team still made key moves to retain and add talent:

  • Tim Patrick (WR) – Re-signed after posting 33 receptions for 394 yards and three touchdowns in 2024.
  • Kenny Yeboah (TE) – Signed to provide depth behind star tight end Sam LaPorta.
  • Craig Reynolds (RB) – Re-signed to maintain running back depth behind Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.
  • Shane Zylstra (TE) – Re-signed to ensure depth at tight end.
  • Kyle Allen (QB) – Signed from the Pittsburgh Steelers to serve as a backup quarterback option.

Key Departures

While the Lions added talent, they also lost some key players:

  • Carlton Davis (CB) – Signed with the New England Patriots on a three-year, $54 million deal.
  • Kevin Zeitler (OG) – Signed with the Tennessee Titans, leaving a vacancy on the offensive line.
  • Za’Darius Smith (DE) – Released after being acquired from the Cleveland Browns in 2024.
  • Jalen Reeves-Maybin (LB) – Released to create cap space and allow younger linebackers to step up.

Detroit’s approach in free agency demonstrates a clear commitment to addressing the depth issues that plagued them in 2024. By revamping their cornerback room, adding defensive line depth, and retaining key offensive contributors, the Lions have positioned themselves as legitimate contenders in the NFC. If their new additions can stay healthy, Detroit should have a more resilient and competitive roster heading into the 2025 season.

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