The Detroit Lions face significant decisions for their defensive line this offseason. Alim McNeil is recovering from a torn ACL, and his return timeline remains unknown.
Levi Onwuzurike is set to become a free agent after completing his rookie contract. D.J. Reader has been mentioned as a potential release to create cap space.
With questions surrounding the defensive tackle position, the Lions might turn to free agency for added stability.
In a piece predicting where the top free agents at each position would go this offseason, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggested the Lions could sign Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill.
While it may seem risky to target players from the Bengals’ struggling defense in 2024, Hill could be an exception.
Hill has been a reliable contributor for the Bengals, making an impact against both the run and the pass, even in a down year for the defense.
He posted 56 total tackles, including a career-high seven tackles for loss, in 2024.
He also generated 32 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus, making him a solid fit for a Lions defense needing improvements in both pass rush and run defense.
While Hill may not be the most glamorous signing, he could offer much-needed stability to a defensive tackle group in flux.