While everyone’s focus turns to the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s time to take stock of the Lions’ roster after free agency.
Some teams made big moves and gave away key players, while others made quieter, less notable moves. The Lions’ office was relatively quiet and didn’t make any big-name trades or signings, but they took care of business and kept their roster among the league’s best.
They kicked off free agency by re-signing a few key players and have since signed eight new players, five of whom are defensive:
- Roy Lopez, DT, Arizona Cardinals
- D.J. Reed, CB, New York Jets
- Avonte Maddox, NB, Philadelphia Eagles
- Grant Stuard, LB, Indianapolis Colts
- Rock Ya-Sin, CB, San Francisco 49ers
The focus on defensive signings is not a surprise, given several factors. Five players signed with new teams, four of them from the defense. Then, of course, given the offense’s performance in comparison to the defense, adding some defensive talent certainly could not hurt. Given the defense’s poor health throughout the season, it was understood that the Lions needed to build better depth behind their starters.
2025 NFL Draft is Nearing
Now that the free agency dust has settled, we can look ahead to the bright lights of the NFL Draft (Thursday, April 24th). The last few drafts have been crucial to the development of the Lions we know today.
A few names that might ring a bell are Amon-Ra St. Brown (2021), Penei Sewell (2021), Kerby Joseph (2022), Jameson Williams (2022), Aidan Hutchinson (2022), Brian Branch (2023), Sam LaPorta (2023), Jahmyr Gibbs (2023), and Terrion Arnold (2024). Brad Holmes has made sure to utilize the young talent, taking risks that have paid off better than most would’ve thought.
Edge Upgrade to Pair With Hutchinson?
So this year, what are the team’s major needs? Well, fans have been crying for an edge rusher to work alongside Hutchinson. While many have thrown out the name James Pearce Jr., his character is a concern and could be a liability off the field.
A player that some have rumored is Michigan defensive end Josiah Stewart. In his freshman year at Coastal Carolina, he recorded 12.5 sacks. After transferring to Michigan in 2023, he recorded 14 sacks over two seasons and helped win the national championship in 2023. He has the proven production, and his athleticism was on full display against USC this past season.
Jack Sawyer also looks like a good option. He proved to be loyal, staying at Ohio State all four years after growing up near the university. He recorded nine sacks this past season, dialing it in with 4.5 during the playoffs.
A third option is Louisville senior Ashton Gillotte. He plays with determination and aggression, finishing every play strong. Late in the season, the Lions seemed to have an issue when pressuring quarterbacks. They got home often and made contact, but never brought anyone down. Gillotte has the power and determination to finish the play.
Lions Likely to Go After O-Line Help
Kevin Zeitler, a star in protection for the Lions, did not re-sign. Although there are several inside players ready to go, it should not be a surprise to see someone drafted for this position.
Gray Zabel, protecting the blind side for North Dakota State, is a quick mover and a brick wall. The offense depends on giving Jared Goff time and opening gaps for Montgomery and Gibbs to slip through. Zabel, a popular prospect, is a good option for the Lions, who need to protect their offense.
Even if Zabel or other top prospects are taken, expect this position to be filled and trained as the Lions continue to produce offensive efficiency.
Safety Among Additional Lions Needs
Of the five rostered safeties, Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph are the only ones who have played more than one game, if at all. While the Lions are a developmental franchise, the lack of depth indicates a draftee likely filling this spot.
While the need is less glaring, expect the pick for a safety to occur later in the draft. However, safety is not a position that gets drafted fast. Andrew Makuba, if available, would fit the needs well. Makuba has always played against good competition. In high school, he played in Texas before starting as a freshman at Clemson. He eventually transferred to Texas, where he led the SEC in interceptions as a senior. Makuba could be a fine addition to the already dominant duo in the Lions’ secondary.
With draft day approaching, speculation ramps up, and the focus will remain on the defense. Defensive depth was crucial last season, and the front office will want more firepower throughout the depth chart. The defensive line needs some help when it comes to finishers. Aidan Hutchinson will return, but he needs a running mate. In the secondary, help is needed in breaking up passes cleanly.
The offensive line needs to keep controlling the pace, and as players leave, someone needs to step into their place.
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