Are these players perfect fits for Detroit in free agency?
With the start of free agency less than a month away, the Detroit Lions’ efforts to strengthen roster are continuing.
This offseason will be an interesting one, as the Lions have the cap space to spend this year but also have several players eligible for extensions beginning next season. As a result, the team could be walking a fine line between bolstering their roster now while still saving cap space for extending players such as Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Still, the Lions have always prioritized fit when it comes to external additions. As a result, the organization could be more tempted to spend if there are players that fit their needs.
Here are three free agents who are perfect fits for the Lions in 2024:
EDGE Jonathan Greenard
The Lions have one of
the league’s best young pass-rushers in Aidan Hutchinson, but their other options struggled to get to opposing passers in 2023. With multiple options at the position heading into free agency, the Lions should evaluate the free agent talent at this position.
Greenard will be one of the best available options, and there’s plenty to like about where he’s at in his career.
He’s coming off career-high totals in sacks, tackles and tackles for loss.
He could also be available at an affordable price.
As has been the case each of Brad Holmes’ first three years as GM, the Lions will likely devote a hefty amount of their cap space to retaining their own players.
However, the Lions could undoubtedly use a running mate for Hutchinson, and a proven one at that.
Greenard has shown growth over the last four seasons and his play suggests that there might be more ahead of him.
CB Kendall Fuller
The Lions made a big commitment to a cornerback last offseason, signing Cam Sutton to a threeyear deal.
However, Sutton struggled and the overall performance at the position suggests that reinforcements are needed.
Fuller is a savvy veteran who could make up for some of those struggles. He was one of the few bright spots on an abysmal Washington defense last year. Additionally, he has experience playing in multiple different schemes and has demonstrated an understanding of both man and zone concepts.
He also has versatility, as he can play on the boundary or line up in the slot.
With 16 career interceptions and five over the last two years, he fits the mold of a defensive playmaker that Aaron Glenn favors in his defense.
Rankins has had a solid NFL career, playing eight seasons across three NFL teams.
His first five came in New Orleans, overlapping with Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn’s tenures with the organization.
Though Rankins is entering his age-30 seasons, he appears to have plenty of production left in the tank. Additionally, he’s a passrush first interior defender who could command an affordable contract.
The Lions got good production from Alim McNeill last season, so Rankins could be utilized in a rotational role.
While not being a standout or a star at this stage of his career, he would be a productive addition who could also serve as a mentor for developing players such as Brodric Martin and Levi Onwuzurike.