The Detroit Lions are reshaping their roster during the 2025 NFL free agency period, which kicked off on March 12. A week later, the team has made several moves aimed at strengthening their position for the upcoming season. While it hasn’t been the most sensational free agency period in terms of big-name signings, the Lions have nevertheless made strategic decisions to prepare for another postseason run.
The most impactful addition to the Lions' roster is cornerback D.J. Reed, who joined the team on a three-year, $48 million deal, marking the largest external contract handed out by the Lions under General Manager Brad Holmes. Reed, who was the ninth-ranked player on The Athletic’s top-150 free agents list, brings considerable talent and experience to the secondary. He showcased his ability to force tight-window throws on 37.3 percent of targets last year, which was the fourth-highest rate across the NFL at his position.
Reed’s professionalism and hard work have been widely noted, with the player stating, “It’s the standard I set for myself. I made a promise to myself. I call it ‘Empty The Tank.’ To give my all and once I’m done — whenever I think of the end of my career, I want to know I gave everything to the game.” His dedication to preparation and performance is expected to mesh well with the Lions’ culture as they incorporate his skills on both man and zone coverage schemes.
Alongside Reed, the Lions have successfully retained key players from previous seasons, including defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike and linebacker Derrick Barnes. Onwuzurike has signed on for another year, securing himself with a one-year, $5.5 million deal after demonstrating significant growth and presence on the field last season. Barnes has also re-signed for three years at $25 million, reflecting his importance to the team and development as a player.
On the other hand, the Lions faced some significant departures. Edge rusher Za’Darius Smith was released shortly before free agency commenced. Acquired last season, Smith made considerable contributions on defense, ranking third in pressures among edge rushers with 36. His exit has left the Lions with concerns about the edge rusher position heading forward. The team clearly felt the financial burden of keeping Smith on the roster could not be justified, especially with looming trades and new signings.
Adding to the list of players the Lions lost is cornerback Carlton Davis III, who signed with the New England Patriots for three years at $60 million after the team made attempts to retain him. The Lions aimed to address their cornerback needs with Reed's signing, but losing Davis does create uncertainty within the secondary.
Kevin Zeitler, who was signed to help solidify the offensive line, also departed, choosing to join the Tennessee Titans for one year at $9 million. The Lions are hopeful for the development of Christian Mahogany, who stepped up last season and exhibited strong performances. Nevertheless, the void left by Zeitler presents another challenge for the team as they look to rebuild their line.
Despite these losses, the Lions have continued to add depth to their roster. The signings of Roy Lopez, previously with the Cardinals, and Grant Stuard, former Colts linebacker, reflect the team's commitment to bolstering its defense. Lopez brings grit and tenacity to the interior line, expected to contribute to the run defense, whereas Stuard, who has excelled on special teams, will add valuable depth to the linebacker corps.
Quarterback Kyle Allen was also acquired, offering experience and depth behind starter Jared Goff. Having started 12 games back in 2019, Allen could emerge as a reliable backup, allowing room for potential growth and development for younger players like Hendon Hooker.
The Lions have also retained valuable role players like wide receiver Tim Patrick, who provided key contributions last season, finishing with 33 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns, and defensive lineman Myles Adams. The re-signing of these players highlights the Lions’ focus on maintaining continuity amid pursuit of new talent.
Still, it’s clear the Lions have challenges remaining to address before the start of the draft on April 24, 2025. Gaps at the guard and EDGE positions need to be filled if the team hopes to mount serious contention this season. General Manager Brad Holmes appears committed to using every opportunity, whether it’s through late trades, incremental signings, or via the draft itself to shore up these gaps.
Overall, as the Lions navigate this free agency period, the blend of fresh talent alongside retained players highlights their ambition of crafting a squad competitive enough to go far this coming season. The dynamics of the offseason continue to play out, but fans are optimistic about the direction the team is headed, infusing both excitement and anticipation of what’s to come.
