4 Defensive Free Agents Who Could Help Lions
As the calendar turns to August, football season is fast approaching.
The NFL is into the swing of its training camps, with the Detroit Lions having been in action for over a week. Though the team feels good about its additions to the roster, there are always areas to add more depth.
With the first preseason game set for Aug. 11, here are four free agents who could help the Lions' defense:
EDGE Jadeveon Clowney
One of the best collegiate pass rushers in recent memory remains a free agent into August. Just 30 years old, Clowney has yet to sign with a new team after playing the last two seasons in Cleveland.
The South Carolina product has struggled to make the impact he was expected to as a former No. 1 overall pick. He's a three-time pro bowler, though, and could be a solid depth piece for the upcoming season.
DT Boogie Roberts
If you're looking for an intriguing, unproven player then Roberts could be perfect. He spent last season with the USFL's Pittsburgh Maulers, where he produced three sacks and eight tackles for loss.
A 27-year-old, he was initially signed as an undrafted free agent by the Los Angeles Rams in 2019. He was productive in college at San Jose State but never cracked the NFL roster.
He was the second-highest graded player on his team by Pro Football Focus, behind only linebacker Reuben Foster. The Lions have lots of questions on their defensive interior, so Roberts would be an interesting addition.
DT Matt Ioannidis
On the flip-side, Ioannidis is a proven veteran with plenty of experience. If Detroit desires a veteran presence, then Ioannidis is their man.
The Temple product has carved out seven strong NFL seasons, most recently in 2022 with the Carolina Panthers. He earned a 66.0 overall PFF defense grade, which ranked eighth on the Panthers' defense.
The Lions have Alim McNeill as the staple on the inside, but little else in terms of proven production. Adding Ioannidis would add a competitive wrinkle, which could get the best out of young players like Brodric Martin, Levi Onwuzurike and Isaiah Buggs.
LB Zach Cunningham
The Lions' linebacker battle is shaping up to be a good one. In Cunningham, there would be another veteran presence to help mentor the young players while also providing depth.
Special teams will play a big role in deciding the final roster spots at this position. If Dan Campbell and company aren't satisfied with what they have, then Cunningham's experience could come into play.
The 28-year-old has seen his consistency dip since posting three straight 100-plus tackle seasons, but he could still be a worthy contributor in a pinch or on special teams.
