You Won't Believe Which 5 Defensive Free Agents Could Change the Lions' Fate THIS Season!

The Detroit Lions have been busy this offseason, making strides to revamp their roster as they aim to return to the playoffs by 2026. While their efforts so far are commendable, there’s still significant work ahead, particularly in strengthening a defense that has struggled in recent seasons. General manager Brad Holmes should focus on the free-agent market to bolster this critical area of the team.

Here are five of the best remaining defensive free agents that the Lions should consider adding to their roster:

Potential Targets for the Lions

EDGE Joey Bosa

One of the most compelling names still available is Joey Bosa. When healthy, Bosa remains one of the most talented pass-rushers in the league. In 2025, he recorded five sacks, 30 quarterback hurries, and 47 total pressures, achieving a 79.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, which includes an elite 88.7 pass-rush grade. As Bosa enters his 11th NFL season, his capacity to disrupt opposing quarterbacks could significantly upgrade Detroit's defensive front. The Lions have been in search of a consistent running mate for fellow EDGE Aidan Hutchinson, and Bosa's quickness off the edge would put added pressure on offenses, something the Lions have sorely lacked. Although there are concerns regarding his durability, a short-term, incentive-laden contract could be a worthwhile gamble.

EDGE A.J. Epenesa

Another potential pass-rushing option is A.J. Epenesa, who spent his entire career with the Buffalo Bills. Since entering the league in 2020, Epenesa has amassed 24 sacks and 29 tackles for loss, primarily serving as a rotational player. Despite limited starting opportunities, he has demonstrated a knack for disrupting plays both as a pass-rusher and a run defender. Joining Detroit could provide Epenesa with the change of scenery he needs to thrive under defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard.

EDGE Cameron Jordan

As he approaches the twilight of his career, Cameron Jordan has shown he can still be a force. The 37-year-old recorded 10.5 sacks in 2025, his highest total since 2021, along with 47 tackles and 15 quarterback hits. With Hutchinson becoming one of the league's top pass-rushers, Jordan's presence could create a formidable duo, forcing offenses to account for pressure from both sides. Signing this eight-time Pro Bowler to a one-year contract should be a priority for Holmes.

LB Bobby Wagner

In the middle of the field, Bobby Wagner remains a formidable presence as he enters his 15th NFL season. The ten-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion collected 162 total tackles in 2025, marking his 14th consecutive season with over 100 stops. His 78.6 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, including a 90.3 run-defense grade, underscores his dominance. Wagner could serve as a solid replacement for Alex Anzalone, making him an appealing option for the Lions as they aim to strengthen their linebacker corps.

CB Trevon Diggs

Finally, the Lions should consider adding a dynamic playmaking cornerback like Trevon Diggs. When healthy, Diggs is recognized as one of the most dangerous ballhawks in football, having recorded 11 interceptions in his breakout 2021 season. Although he has faced injury challenges in recent years, a bounce-back year entering his age-28 season could elevate Detroit's secondary, providing a much-needed difference-maker on the outside.

As the Lions continue their efforts to rebuild, these free agents represent valuable opportunities to enhance a defense that has been lacking in recent seasons. By securing key players like Bosa, Epenesa, Jordan, Wagner, and Diggs, the Lions could take significant steps towards a successful campaign in 2026 and beyond.