Roster reconstruction is underway in the NFL for next season
We’re kicking off another busy period in the NFL as teams begin making moves to reshape their rosters for the 2025 season. The NFL’s free agency period officially begins on Wednesday, marking the start of the new league year. For teams like the Detroit Lions, this means it’s time to either bring in new talent or part ways with some familiar faces. The Lions are entering free agency with around $50 million in cap space, ranking among the top 10 in the league.
While teams can officially sign players starting Wednesday, negotiations can begin as early as Monday during the league’s “legal tampering” period. For instance, the Lions have already secured linebacker Derrick Barnes, re-signing him to a three-year deal on Friday.
Under the leadership of general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, now entering Year 5, the Lions are looking to strengthen their roster. Their needs are especially pressing along the defensive line, at guard, and for a No. 3 wide receiver.
Additionally, some high-profile players could be on the move. The Cincinnati Bengals have granted NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson permission to seek a trade, while the Los Angeles Chargers are set to cut Joey Bosa, and the Philadelphia Eagles are releasing Darius Slay.
Let’s dive into the latest updates surrounding the Lions’ moves during this critical time:
Lions Re-sign LB Ezekiel Turner to One-Year Deal
Zeke Turner is returning to the Lions on a one-year deal. After joining the team in November, Turner made a significant impact, playing in nine games, primarily on special teams. He racked up 12 tackles, three quarterback hits, and a half-sack. Turner, who turned 29 in June, is a converted safety and spent the 2018-2023 seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. Turner joins linebacker Derrick Barnes as the first two players to re-sign with the Lions as the team prepares for free agency.
Jonathan Allen to Be Released by Washington
Big news on the defensive line: Jonathan Allen, a two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle for the Washington Commanders, is being released. With no guaranteed money left on his contract, this move will free up $16.5 million in cap space for Washington, though they will still face $6 million in dead money. At 30 years old, Allen has been a staple in Washington’s defense with 42 sacks over his eight-season career. Given that Alim McNeill is recovering from an ACL tear and Levi Onwuzurike is set to become a free agent, Allen could be a valuable addition to the Lions’ interior defensive line.
Harold Landry to Be Released by Titans
The Tennessee Titans are set to release Harold Landry, another edge rusher who could make an impact in free agency. A second-round pick in 2018 from Boston College, Landry has had a solid career, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2021. After missing the 2022 season due to a torn ACL, Landry bounced back with 9 sacks in 2023. With other top-tier edge rushers like Josh Sweat and Joey Bosa also potentially available, Landry will add to a deep pool of pass rushers on the market.
Carlton Davis Could Be a Steal in Free Agency
Cornerback Carlton Davis might not be the biggest name heading into free agency, but he’s drawing attention as a potential steal. Despite dealing with injuries, Davis is considered a versatile corner who thrives in aggressive, man-to-man coverage. He played in defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s system before Glenn took the head coach role with the New York Jets. ESPN’s Ben Solak believes Davis could be a bargain at a contract around $42 million over three years. If the Lions can’t reach an agreement, other teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Indianapolis Colts could be potential suitors.
Trey Hendrickson Trade to Lions Considered a Perfect Fit
As Trey Hendrickson explores trade options, an intriguing possibility has surfaced: the Lions might be his ideal destination. NFL.com writer Nick Shook highlighted the Lions as the best fit for Hendrickson, noting that their ample cap space—around $51 million—would allow them to take on his salary and potentially negotiate a long-term extension. Hendrickson, who led the league in sacks in 2024 with 17½, would provide the Lions with an elite pass-rusher pairing, boosting their already solid defense under Dan Campbell.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Lions and other NFL teams continue to build for the upcoming season.
