10 Defensive Free Agents Lions Should Sign in 2024
The Detroit Lions' defense has had its ups-and-downs under coordinator Aaron Glenn.
The unit has traditionally ranked near the bottom of the league, yet it appears to be trending up as young talent has entered the fold. In 2023, Detroit boasted one of the best run defenses in the league.
As a result, free agency offers general manager Brad Holmes another opportunity to add more standout talent to the roster.
Here are 10 defensive free agents the Lions should pursue when free agency officially opens March 13.
CB Stephon Gilmore
In his prime, Gilmore was one of the league's top shutdown corners. Though he may be past that mark, he's still capable of being a very productive member of an NFL secondary.
With the Lions in desperate need of help in the defensive backfield, Gilmore would be a natural fit on a short-term contract. Detroit also has an advantage in the free agency sweepstakes, as the organization currently has Gilmore's brother, Steven, on its roster.
DT Christian Wilkins
Wilkins is one of the top free-agent targets at the defensive tackle position. With the Dolphins electing to not use the franchise tag on him, he's likely to test the open market.
While the Lions have Alim McNeill as a top option on the defensive interior, they could use a dominant force next to their incumbent talented defender. Wilkins would fit that bill, plus give Detroit another solid run-stuffing option.
DE Jonathan Greenard
Greenard is looking to cash in after a strong 2023 campaign. After just 10.5 sacks total over his first three seasons, he erupted for 12.5 sacks last season. Detroit is looking for a running mate for Aidan Hutchinson, and Greenard could be an ideal fit.
Despite a relative lack of consistent production, there's plenty of optimism about his future. He's one of the top players at his position available, and the Lions should be aggressive in acquiring a top player at a key position.
CB Chidobe Awuzie
An experienced and well-versed option at the cornerback position is Awuzie, who could have a lower cost in free agency compared to other top options at the position. With the Lions having spent big on Cam Sutton last year, the organization could decide against making a big deal for a corner.
Awuzie is a very intriguing player. While never serving as a true top option for a defense, he has showed that he's more than capable of handling secondary assignments. As a result, Detroit could elect to sign him while also developing a younger option.
DE Dorance Armstrong
While other defenders garner more attention than Armstrong, he has shown some intriguing potential in recent seasons. Over the last two campaigns, he's had a total of 16 sacks.
Armstrong is a more than capable run defender who has showed off plenty of strength, in addition to his pass-rushing ability. He'd give the defense a strong veteran presence who could nicely complement Hutchinson's pass-rush abilities.
DT Sheldon Rankins
The Lions need to address the defensive interior. If Wilkins is not available, a better option may be Rankins. He's a veteran option who is also familiar with Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
Rankins was in New Orleans while Glenn was the secondary coach, so the familiarity in defensive schemes could lend itself to a beneficial understanding. The veteran could also serve as a mentor to the likes of McNeill, Levi Onwuzurike and Brodric Martin.
S Deshon Elliott
Elliott would make for an intriguing reunion for Detroit's defense. The organization has solid options at safety, but there's a physical element of his game that is appealing.
With Elliott's ability to get downfield and make a big hit, he would be a nice addition to the safety rotation. He was solid for the organization when healthy in 2022, so there could be benefits to staging a reunion.
DE Denico Autry
Autry has continued to produce throughout the recent stretches of his career. Despite accruing 10 NFL seasons, the veteran has remained a consistent defensive presence for the Titans' defense.
Detroit brought in his former position coach, Terrell Williams. This familiarity would make for an easy transition, and his veteran expertise would be an asset to what is a young defensive line.
LB Jordan Hicks
The Lions are plenty set at the linebacker position after drafting Jack Campbell and re-signing Jalen Reeves-Maybin. With Derrick Barnes and Alex Anzalone also under contract for at least the next season, the organization may not be in the market for a high-profile linebacker addition.
However, a player like Hicks could fill a valuable depth role. He has experience on special teams, which is highly coveted, and can fill in if need be.
DE Mike Danna
One other defensive end option is Danna, who has been an underrated option in Kansas City's defensive line rotation. He is capable of being a three-down player who can bring the heat, as well as slow down the run.
He profiles better as a down lineman than a stand-up rusher, which would make for a nice combination with Hutchinson. Danna also has shown that he can set a strong edge against opposing run games.
