Projecting How the Lions Will Fill Their Remaining 24 Roster Spots
Examining past offseasons to predict how the Lions will finalize their 90-man roster for 2025.
As the Detroit Lions enter the second week of 2025 free agency, they currently have 66 players under contract, leaving 24 open spots on their 90-man roster. To anticipate how they might fill these spots, we analyzed the Lions’ past four offseasons of roster construction.
With seven draft picks and a history of signing 12-17 undrafted free agents, the Lions have the flexibility to add a few more key free agents or focus on the draft to complete their roster.
Additionally, by reviewing the number of players per position at the start of past OTAs, minicamps, and training camps, we can identify position groups that are well-stocked and those needing more depth for practices.
Let’s explore how the Lions may approach the remainder of their offseason.
Quarterback (4 under contract)
Need: None
With four quarterbacks signed, the Lions have sufficient depth for training camp without overburdening Jared Goff. Since both Goff and Hendon Hooker are under contract through 2026, there is little urgency to add another quarterback unless they see an opportunity for an upgrade.
Running Back (4)
Need: Depth x 2
Although the Lions are bringing back their four running backs from last season, they usually enter camp with at least six to balance the workload and evaluate young talent.
Given the depth of this year’s running back class—where around 30-32 players carry draftable grades—the Lions are more likely to use a late-round pick rather than sign a free agent.
It would make sense if: The Lions add one or two undrafted rookie backs.
Wide Receiver (7)
Need: WR5/6, Depth x 4
Detroit has its top four receivers returning but still needs to fill out its depth chart. With past camps typically featuring around 12 receivers, the Lions may add five more players to compete.
While five additions might seem excessive, the current depth options are unproven. Antoine Green struggled last season, Tom Kennedy has produced but lacks special teams value, and Ronnie Bell has minimal experience. Tim Patrick is set to start at WR-X but is 32 with an injury history.
It would make sense if: The Lions draft a WR-X as insurance for Patrick and develop a potential future starter while adding depth through undrafted signings.
Tight End (3)
Need: TE3, Depth
The Lions typically carry six to eight tight ends into camp, but with only three currently rostered, they are likely to add at least three more. Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright are locked in as TE1 and TE2, but TE3 is an open competition.
Kenny Yeboah was signed recently, and while Shane Zylstra (last year’s TE3) remains a free agent, he could return. The Lions have also shown interest in blocking tight ends, having met with Thomas Fidone (Nebraska), Jackson Hawes (Georgia Tech), CJ Dippre (Alabama), and Robbie Ouzts (Alabama) at the NFL Combine.
It would make sense if: The Lions re-sign Zylstra, draft a blocking tight end on Day 3, and add another undrafted option.
Offensive Tackle (6)
Need: Depth
With six tackles under contract, the Lions have enough depth for camp but may still consider an upgrade. While their current backups provide depth, none are ideal as spot starters.
It would make sense if: The Lions remain open to a potential upgrade but could also rely on the undrafted free agent market.
Interior Offensive Line (6)
Need: Challenger for a starting role, Depth x 2
Graham Glasgow and Christian Mahogany are projected to start at guard, but additional competition would be beneficial.
If the Lions make only a couple of free-agent moves, adding a veteran guard should be a priority. Players like Brandon Scherff, Will Hernandez, or Teven Jenkins could be options. The draft also offers at least five plug-and-play guard prospects.
It would make sense if: The Lions address the issue by signing a veteran and drafting a guard early, ensuring long-term stability.
Interior Defensive Line (8)
Need: Future depth
With eight interior defensive linemen under contract, the Lions have enough bodies for camp. However, injuries to Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo could lead to an additional signing. Beyond this season, only McNeill, Wingo, and Brodric Martin are under contract, creating an opportunity for a future-focused addition.
It would make sense if: The Lions draft a pass-rushing defensive tackle who can contribute immediately and solidify the unit long-term.
Edge Rusher (5)
Need: Challenger for a starting role, Depth x 2
Detroit typically brings six to nine edge rushers into camp, meaning at least one more addition is likely.
With Za’Darius Smith released and Marcus Davenport recovering from injury, the Lions may prioritize insurance options. Hutchinson and Davenport lead the group, but given injury concerns, adding a veteran and an early draft pick could be smart.
It would make sense if: The Lions draft an edge rusher early and sign a veteran pass-rusher while considering a second draft pick or UDFA addition.
Linebacker (10)
Need: Future depth
The Lions have never entered camp with more than 10 linebackers, so this position group may already be set. However, only Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes are signed beyond this season, meaning a future-focused draft pick is possible.
It would make sense if: The Lions draft a linebacker, but only if the right opportunity arises.
Cornerback (5)
Need: CB5, Depth x 3
The Lions have traditionally brought nine to twelve corners into camp, meaning at least four more additions are expected.
With D.J. Reed, Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, and Ennis Rakestraw set for key roles, Detroit still needs more depth. A veteran free agent and a rookie could help fill out the group.
It would make sense if: The Lions sign a veteran, draft a corner, and add undrafted players to complete the unit.
Safety (5)
Need: SAF3, Depth
The Lions usually bring seven to nine safeties into camp, so they are likely to add at least two more.
Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch are locked in as starters, but Detroit could seek an Ifeatu Melifonwu replacement. Given Joseph’s status as the most experienced safety, a veteran presence could be beneficial.
It would make sense if: The Lions explore free agency for a fit while also looking at safety prospects in the draft. With Morice Norris and Loren Stickland coming from last year’s UDFA class, the Lions may consider that route again.
Special Teams (3)
Need: Camp depth?
The Lions appear settled at kicker, punter, and long snapper, but will they bring in camp competition?
- Punter: Jack Fox has never faced competition.
- Kicker: Detroit has traditionally brought in multiple kickers but didn’t do so last year after Michael Badgley was injured.
- Long Snapper: The Lions have carried two long snappers in camp three of the past four years, except following Scott Daly’s rookie season. Hogan Hatten’s strong rookie performance could mean no competition is added.
It would make sense if: The Lions stand pat, allowing their young kicker and long snapper to gain more experience.
Projected Depth Chart with Needs Addressed
Based on past roster construction trends, this is how the Lions’ depth chart could shape up, considering potential draft picks, free agents, and undrafted signings.