As the NFL’s legal tampering period looms just days away, the Detroit Lions are reportedly finalizing their strategy for free agency. With plenty of cap space to work with, the Lions are positioned to make moves, although general manager Brad Holmes has typically favored adding supplementary pieces rather than splashing out on major signings.
Detroit’s defense remains a key area for improvement if the team hopes to take the next step toward a potential championship run. This makes the Lions a likely player in the pursuit of some of the top defensive free agents this year.
Here are 10 defensive players that could be a good fit for the Detroit Lions as they enter the 2025 free-agent market.
EDGE Khalil Mack
Khalil Mack’s market will be closely watched as free agency kicks off. After posting six sacks in 17 games last season, Mack’s performance still has some question marks, especially with him turning 34 this year. However, two seasons ago, he posted a career-high 17 sacks for the Chargers. While Mack might not be the same dominant force he once was, he could still provide valuable experience and leadership for the Lions. Detroit has struggled to find a reliable complement to Aidan Hutchinson on the edge, and Mack could be a low-risk, high-reward option on a short-term deal.
DT Tershawn Wharton
After a breakout 2024 season, Tershawn Wharton could be a key player on the Lions’ radar. With 6.5 sacks last season, Wharton proved he can rush the passer effectively from the interior. If he doesn’t land the big contract he’s likely seeking, Detroit could offer him the opportunity to step into a starting role. His ability to generate pressure up the middle would be an asset to a defense that’s looking to improve.
LB Dennis Gardeck
Dennis Gardeck is a versatile linebacker who can also act as an edge rusher, making him an intriguing option for Detroit. Known for his ability to disrupt quarterbacks and create turnovers, Gardeck fits the mold of the type of player Brad Holmes has targeted in recent years — someone who could offer a bounce-back season after dealing with injuries. He could be a valuable addition to the Lions’ linebacking corps and provide much-needed depth and competition.
CB Darius Slay
Darius Slay has made it clear that he’d like to return to either Philadelphia or Detroit for what he believes could be his final NFL season. Now that he’s been released by the Eagles, the Lions are a team to watch in this scenario. While he may not be the shutdown corner he once was, Slay still brings veteran savvy and leadership to a relatively young cornerback group. His potential return to Detroit on a one-year deal would add invaluable experience and provide immediate competition at the cornerback position.
EDGE Chase Young
Chase Young has been linked to the Lions in trade rumors for the past couple of years, and he could still be a possibility for Detroit as a free agent. At just 26 years old, Young still has potential to grow into the player that was once the No. 2 overall pick in the draft. Though injuries have hampered his career, Detroit might be willing to take a chance on him, hoping he can regain his dominant form. Even if his production is modest, Young would still be an asset to the Lions’ defense.
LB Cody Barton
Cody Barton offers a mix of special teams experience and defensive production. A third-round pick in 2019, Barton has played over 1,200 special teams snaps and has also been productive in coverage, with five interceptions over the last three seasons. His familiarity with the linebacker position and his ability to contribute on special teams make him a solid rotational option for the Lions’ defense.
CB Paulson Adebo
Paulson Adebo was having a strong season before suffering a broken femur in Week 7. Had he remained healthy, it’s likely he would have been one of the top cornerbacks available in free agency. Standing at 6’1″ with great physicality, Adebo has the tools to compete with the best wide receivers in the NFC North. The Lions’ new passing game coordinator, David Shaw, is familiar with Adebo from his time at Stanford, which could make Detroit an appealing landing spot for the young cornerback.
DT Calais Campbell
Detroit has shown interest in Calais Campbell in previous years, and the 38-year-old defensive tackle remains an attractive option after proving he still has plenty left in the tank. With five sacks last season, Campbell’s leadership and playoff experience would be invaluable to a team looking to make a Super Bowl run. If he decides to chase another championship, Detroit could be a great fit for the six-time Pro Bowler.
LB Jack Sanborn
Jack Sanborn enters free agency after the Chicago Bears declined to tender him an exclusive rights contract. A low-cost, high-reward option for the Lions, Sanborn is known for his special teams prowess, having logged significant snaps in that role. He’s also been productive as a starting linebacker, with solid tackling numbers over his three-year career. Sanborn could add depth and competition to the Lions’ linebacking unit.
CB Kristian Fulton
Kristian Fulton had a strong 2024 season, recording one interception and seven passes defensed in 15 games. After struggling early in his career, Fulton’s stock has risen, making him an intriguing option for the Lions. He could provide competition at cornerback and offer versatility, with the ability to play both outside and as a nickel cornerback. With his physicality and steady improvement, Fulton could be a valuable asset to Detroit’s secondary.
As the Lions work to finalize their free agency strategy, these defensive players represent a mix of potential stars and depth pieces that could help the team push closer to a Super Bowl. The next few days should reveal which of these names will join the Lions as they look to improve and contend for a championship.
