Tier 2 defensive linemen Detroit could target in free agency
The Detroit Lions’ defensive line has a budding star in Alim McNeill.
However, the depth behind him was tested throughout the season. Detroit was unable to establish a consistent rotation, and it could look to free agency to upgrade the group as a result.
There’s plenty of talent potentially available with free agency beginning in less than a week. As a result, the Lions could scour the market in an effort to find new talent.
In the event that general manager Brad Holmes elects not to spend on one of the top players available at the position, there are still multiple options that Detroit could target.
Here are three tier 2 options the Lions could pursue in free agency this offseason:
Maurice Hurst
Hurst is a name Michigan fans will be familiar with, as he played for the Wolverines at the college level. Health concerns drove his Draft value down, and he has played for three teams since entering the league in 2018.
When healthy, Hurst has been an effective rotational piece. He was Cleveland’s third-highest graded defender by Pro Football Focus with an 81.0 mark.
With the Lions boasting McNeill, Hurst profiles as a strong fit on the opposite side of the defensive line. He can be a threat in passrush situations as well, logging 9.5 sacks and 13 career tackles for loss.
Javon Kinlaw
Kinlaw has battled injuries throughout his four-year NFL career. He played in four games in 2021 before suffering a season-ending knee injury, then played in just six games the following year.
He played in all 17 games last season, an encouraging sign. However, he was surpassed on the depth chart by new free agent acquisition Javon Hargrave.
Despite his injuries, Kinlaw has had encouraging moments since entering the league as a first-round pick in 2020. He’s athletic and impactful in both aspects of defense, be it run or pass, with 35 pressures and a 69.7 run-defense grade.
The South Carolina product has plenty of talent and could benefit from a new opportunity. With the depth for Detroit being uncertain as it is, Kinlaw on a short-term deal could be a good addition for the organization.
A’Shawn Robinson
Could a reunion be in store for the Lions and Robinson? A second-round pick of Detroit’s in 2016, Robinson has enjoyed a solid career.
He played four seasons with the Lions, departing after the 2019 season and signing with the Los Angeles Rams.
Robinson is predominately run-oriented defender at this stage in his career. In 251 passrush snaps, he managed just nine pass-rush snaps. However, he’s a veteran talent who has won a Super Bowl ring and could provide depth and a winning presence.
He’s a rotational player who can be a capable player within Detroit’s defensive interior. Robinson would provide solid and experienced competition and leadership for the youth in Detroit’s defensive interior.