Lions Eye Key Free Agents to Boost Defensive End Position

ALLEN PARK, Mich. — As the NFL offseason progresses, the Detroit Lions are actively seeking to bolster their defensive end position. During the annual league meeting, General Manager Brad Holmes stated that the team is exploring options in free agency to fill critical needs.

One of the players under consideration is free agent defensive end DeMarcus Walker, who visited the Lions’ Allen Park Performance Center. Walker, 30, was drafted in the second round by the Denver Broncos in 2017 and has played with teams including the Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans, and most recently, the Chicago Bears.

Walker secured a three-year, $21 million deal with Chicago that included $15.65 million in guarantees. However, his release prior to the start of free agency saved the Bears $5.916 million against the salary cap. Last season, Walker appeared in 17 games, recording 47 tackles, 16 quarterback hits, and 3.5 sacks. Over his eight-year career, he has played in 100 regular-season games, with 42 starts and a total of 191 tackles, 26.5 sacks, and 40 tackles for loss.

In 2022, Walker had a standout season under Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen, achieving career highs with 32 tackles and seven sacks. Walker is also set to meet with the New York Giants this week, reinforcing speculation that he may prefer to reunite with Bowen.

As the Lions search for defensive edge talent, they have also re-signed veteran players and are expected to pursue players in the upcoming NFL draft. The need for an effective running mate alongside Aidan Hutchinson remains a primary focus for Holmes and the Lions’ front office.

“Finding a capable partner for Hutchinson is absolutely essential for our defense,” Holmes said at the meeting. “We’re weighing all our options including free agency and the draft to strengthen this position.”

Fans and analysts agree that strengthening the defense should be a priority, and speculation abounds about potential targets Detroit could pursue. Some names floated in trade or free agency discussions include Cincinnati Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who has expressed dissatisfaction over his contract negotiations. Hendrickson hinted at poor communication with the Bengals regarding his contract, which could facilitate a trade.

“Communication has been poor over the last couple of months,” Hendrickson said during a recent appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. “That’s something I hold in high regard.”

Matthew Judon and Za’Darius Smith are others identified as free agents who could provide the Lions with additional edge capabilities. While Judon’s production was not stellar in 2024, he has the experience needed to succeed in Detroit’s defensive scheme. Smith, who previously played for the Lions, remains an appealing option for a return.

As the NFL draft approaches, the Lions’ strategy appears to hinge on balancing talent acquisition through free agency while preparing to target key positions in the draft. This combination could potentially amplify Detroit’s competitive edge as they aim for a stronger performance in the upcoming season.