Two Underrated NFL Free Agents the Lions Should Target
With Dan Campbell forming a fresh coaching staff, and Amon-Ra St. Brown expressing confidence about the Lions’ potential when fully healthy, the future looks promising for 2025. Here are two underrated free agents the Lions should go after.
Despite securing the NFC’s top playoff spot, the Lions were upset by the Commanders. However, with a healthier defense and the right acquisitions, they could return to dominance.
One of the top targets should be edge rusher Khalil Mack. With 11 seasons under his belt, Mack is eager for postseason success after nine Pro Bowl appearances.
Mack Could Strengthen the Lions’ Defense
In this game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) tries to evade Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Khalil Mack (52). Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images The Lions could use a veteran like Mack to make life even more difficult for opposing offenses, particularly with Aidan Hutchinson on the other side.
Jim Harbaugh has praised Mack’s ability to still perform at a high level, following a post by Kris Rhim on X.
Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz have expressed interest in bringing Mack back, with Hortiz revealing that he had already reached out to him.
Harbaugh mentioned, “I’m not sure if we can bring everyone back, but I want to come as close as possible… and no one more than Khalil Mack.”
Mack, just one season removed from a career-high 17 sacks, recorded six in 2024. However, his Pro Bowl recognition highlights his well-rounded game, with nine pass defenses and two forced fumbles.
Could Draft Moves Affect Mack’s Return to the Chargers?
The Chargers have reportedly considered selecting a potential replacement for Mack if they take Michigan edge rusher Josaiah Stewart in the first round, according to Cynthia Frelund of nfl.com.
“Despite his size (6-1, 245), Stewart meets all the essential metrics for an edge rusher,” Frelund wrote. “He has the burst and run-stopping ability needed. The Michigan standout would reunite with Jim Harbaugh in this scenario.”
If Mack can replicate his 2023 form and the Lions’ defense stays healthy, this could result in a truly disruptive defense.
Campbell has stated his intent to keep the 2025 defense as close as possible to this year’s model, as shared on yahoo.com.
“I want the unit to resemble what we’ve been as much as possible,” Campbell said. “We won’t lose our identity, and if someone isn’t on board with that, they won’t be the right fit for this job. I’m not rushing anything; I want what’s best for the team and a coach who can unify the group and deliver my vision.”
49ers’ Charvarius Ward Could Strengthen Lions’ Secondary
While the Lions should be formidable against the pass with a healthy Hutchinson, they could greatly benefit from adding Charvarius Ward to their secondary.
Ward ranks 13th on Pro Football Focus’ free-agent list and 8th according to ESPN.
“Ward has great man-to-man coverage skills and the ability to perform well in zone coverage,” Matt Bowen noted. “He had a career-high five interceptions and 14 pass breakups in 2023. While his 2024 stats weren’t as impressive, his technique and experience would be an asset to any secondary.”
With the Lions’ aggressive defensive approach, cornerbacks need to be tough. New defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard could use a player like Ward to bolster the defense. According to Sports Illustrated’s Christian Booher, the Lions’ defense under Sheppard should be even more formidable.
“I think Sheppard was always the right choice,” Booher said. “He had been working closely with Glenn to be mentored for the role. Campbell seemed to be in on him from the start. Sheppard has thrived in his role and is now ready for a larger one.”
“I’m eager to see how he adjusts the scheme with his promotion. Will the Lions remain focused on man-coverage? How will he handle blitzing? The new hire promises exciting changes.”
Staying Healthy is Crucial for the Lions in 2025
Vito Chirco of Sports Illustrated emphasized that health will be vital for the Lions’ success.
“As long as the defense stays healthier than it did last season,” he said, “the Lions should be in great shape.”