Free agency is already reshaping the Detroit Lions roster. With key players like Alex Anzalone, Amik Robertson and Kyle Allen leaving Detroit, the Lions now face a big question: who will step up to replace them?
NFL free agency is underway, and the Detroit Lions have already seen several familiar faces move on to new teams. While Detroit has made a few additions, the early portion of free agency has largely been about departures. A handful of contributors from last season will not be returning, which means the Lions will have to look at free agency and the draft to replace their production.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the key players who have left Detroit and a few options the team could consider to help fill those holes.
Alex Anzalone
There were rumors throughout the offseason that linebacker Alex Anzalone could be playing his final game in Detroit, and those rumors proved true when he signed a two-year, $17 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Anzalone had become one of the leaders of Detroit’s defense over the past few seasons. Serving as the defensive signal-caller, he routinely led the team in tackles and played a major role in organizing the defense before the snap. Losing that level of experience and leadership leaves a noticeable hole in the middle of the Lions’ defense.
One possible replacement could be Leo Chenal. The 25-year-old linebacker has developed into a productive defender and posted a strong 75.1 overall grade according to Pro Football Focus. He also recorded a 72.6 coverage grade and a 76.2 run-defense grade, showing he can contribute in multiple areas. Chenal’s physical style and improving coverage ability could make him a solid fit in Detroit’s defensive system.
Another option could be veteran linebacker Dre Greenlaw. Greenlaw is coming off a torn ACL and played just 324 snaps last season, but when healthy he has proven to be a productive linebacker. He also brings valuable playoff and Super Bowl experience from his time with the San Francisco 49ers. For a Lions defense that values leadership and physicality, Greenlaw could provide a veteran presence similar to what Anzalone brought to the locker room.
Roy Lopez
Defensive tackle Roy Lopez will also not be returning to Detroit after signing a two-year, $11.5 million deal to rejoin the Arizona Cardinals.
While Lopez was not always a headline player, he played an important role as a rotational interior lineman who helped provide depth along the defensive front. Losing him removes another piece from Detroit’s defensive line rotation.
At the moment, the Lions’ interior defensive line includes Alim McNeill, rookie Tyleik Williams, Levi Onwuzurike and Mekhi Wingo. Veteran defensive tackle D.J. Reader is still a free agent, but it would not be surprising if the Lions chose to move in a different direction.
With Detroit holding 10 total selections in the upcoming NFL Draft, the team may ultimately decide to address the defensive line through the draft instead of spending additional money in free agency.
Amik Robertson
Cornerback Amik Robertson also found a new team, signing a two-year, $16 million deal with the Washington Commanders.
Robertson played an important role in Detroit’s secondary last season, particularly in nickel packages. His departure leaves the Lions somewhat thin at cornerback, especially with uncertainty surrounding the status of Terrion Arnold.
Currently, the Lions have D.J. Reed, Arnold, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Khalil Dorsey and Nick Whiteside under contract at the position. If Detroit wants to add another impact player, one intriguing name to watch could be Riq Woolen. The former Seattle Seahawks corner is known for his elite speed and length, and he could help add playmaking ability to Detroit’s secondary.
Two additional options could be Greg Newsome II of the Cleveland Browns or Nashon Wright, both of whom could provide depth and competition in the defensive backfield.
Kyle Allen
Quarterback Kyle Allen has also moved on, signing a two-year, $4.1 million deal with the Buffalo Bills. With Allen gone, Detroit now has a vacancy at the backup quarterback position behind starter Jared Goff.
One possible veteran option could be Geno Smith. While Smith struggled during his recent stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, he has previously shown he can run an offense effectively and could be a reliable veteran backup.
Another intriguing option could be Marcus Mariota, who has extensive starting experience and could provide mobility and leadership in the quarterback room. Still, with the Lions holding multiple late-round draft picks, it would not be surprising to see Detroit draft a developmental quarterback as well.
It is also worth noting that the Lions made several major roster changes even before free agency began. Detroit released longtime left tackle Taylor Decker and veteran lineman Graham Glasgow, while offensive tackle Dan Skipper announced his retirement. The team also traded running back David Montgomery earlier in the offseason.
All four of those players made significant contributions last season, so replacing their production will not be easy. However, with free agency still ongoing and the draft approaching, Detroit still has several opportunities to reshape the roster as it prepares for the 2026 season.