The Detroit Lions have swiftly addressed key areas of concern in the initial phase of free agency. Revamping the secondary through the acquisition of Carlton Davis and the signing of Amik Robertson, alongside bolstering the defensive line with D.J. Reader and Marcus Davenport, demonstrates GM Brad Holmes’s strategic planning and adept execution. By prioritizing high-character, skilled players to address gaps in the roster, Holmes has positioned the team for considerable flexibility heading into the draft.
As the first wave of free agency winds down, numerous players remain available for the Lions to pursue. While the team is unlikely to pursue top-tier talents commanding significant contracts, there remains a pool of second-tier players who could fulfill potential needs for the Lions without breaking the bank.
Here are five free agents still on the market who could be potential targets for the Lions.
Andrus Peat, Guard
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Dan Campbell and Andrus Peat share a history from their time together in New Orleans spanning five years, offering a unique perspective on potential offensive line solutions. Peat’s primary position has been left guard throughout his career, coincidentally aligning with the vacancy left by Jonah Jackson’s departure. However, his versatility extends to playing tackle earlier in his career, providing the Lions with valuable flexibility in various situations.
Josh Reynolds, Wide Receiver
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – JANUARY 21: Josh Reynolds #8 of the Detroit Lions catches a pass for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter of the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Ford Field on January 21, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Following the adage “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” the potential reunion of Reynolds with the Lions emerges as a sensible move. Despite occasional drops leaving a bitter taste, Reynolds proved to be a dependable target for Jared Goff and a trusted component of the offense. With his imposing stature and willingness to contribute in blocking, his return would bolster the team’s offensive arsenal and provide much-needed depth at the receiver position.
At a projected two-year, $10.5 million contract, this aligns with the Lions’ pattern of rewarding players who have demonstrated their value in Detroit, making Reynolds a fitting candidate for a return.
Julian Blackmon, Defensive Back
Detroit Lions receiver Marvin Hall makes a catch against Indianapolis Colts safety Julian Blackmon (32) during the first half at Ford Field, Sunday, Nov. 1, 2020.
Lions
Returning to the discussion of addressing safety deficiencies, Blackmon emerges as a promising young defensive back whom the Lions can mold for the future. Throughout the previous season, he showcased his versatility by adeptly playing various roles in the defensive backfield, offering Aaron Glenn the flexibility to deploy different defensive schemes. Despite concluding the season on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury, Blackmon’s knack for making plays was evident, as evidenced by his four interceptions in the 2023 season. PFF forecasts a contract of two years at $11.5 million for Blackmon, a reasonable investment considering his youth, playmaking abilities, and potential as a cornerstone for the Lions’ defense.
Dalton Risner, Guard
Jan 1, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Denver Broncos guard Dalton Risner (66) on field against the Kansas City Chiefs during a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
It’s evident that the Lions are prioritizing maintaining the strength of their offensive line, and acquiring a player like Risner could bolster their interior line significantly. Despite potentially underwhelming PFF grades, Risner’s presence could provide the Lions with the necessary toughness to dominate opposing defensive fronts and ensure Jared Goff’s protection, given Risner’s impressive track record of not allowing a single sack last season.
With Risner expressing his desire for starting guard compensation, and Pro Football Focus projecting a contract of three years at $16.5 million, the Lions could feasibly invest in retaining him to preserve the core of their offensive line. Moreover, Risner’s remarkable durability, having missed only four games in his entire career, would offer stability to a position group that has struggled with injuries in the past.