Free agency is one week away, and while everyone is talking about who the Lions should sign, the bigger question might be who they should avoid. These five free agents could bring more risk than reward for Detroit’s Super Bowl push.
With the start of NFL free agency just one week away, the Detroit Lions will have important decisions to make as they look to strengthen a roster that is firmly in its Super Bowl window. Detroit has been aggressive in recent offseasons, but general manager Brad Holmes has also shown discipline when it comes to avoiding risky contracts.
While many discussions focus on players the Lions should target, avoiding the wrong signings can be just as important. Not every big name on the market fits Detroit’s culture, scheme or long-term plans. Based on recent performance, injury history and overall fit, here are five free agents the Lions would be wise to pass on this offseason.
1. Marcus Davenport, Edge
Edge rusher Marcus Davenport is a familiar name to Lions fans, but his time in Detroit has not produced the results the team hoped for. Davenport has struggled to stay on the field due to recurring injuries, and when he has played, the production has been inconsistent.
During the 2025 season, Davenport again dealt with injuries that limited both his snap count and his impact. Detroit already has a cornerstone pass rusher in Aidan Hutchinson, and the team needs a reliable complementary player who can consistently generate pressure. Davenport’s durability concerns and lack of sustained production make him a risky investment. With younger and healthier pass rushers likely available, the Lions should look elsewhere.
2. Quay Walker, Linebacker
Linebacker Quay Walker could hit the market at a time when Detroit may need help at the position, especially if veteran linebacker Alex Anzalone departs in free agency. However, Walker brings significant concerns both on and off the field.
Walker has shown flashes of athletic ability, but his discipline has been an issue throughout his career. In a widely discussed incident during a game against the Lions, Walker was ejected after shoving a member of the training staff. That moment raised serious questions about his temperament. His on-field performance in 2025 also failed to stand out, as he struggled in coverage and was inconsistent as a run defender. For a Lions defense that emphasizes accountability and composure, Walker may not be the best fit.
3. Mekhi Becton, Guard
Offensive lineman Mekhi Becton is another player whose name could generate attention in free agency. Once viewed as a high-upside lineman due to his size and physical traits, Becton has had difficulty living up to expectations.
The 2025 season was another uneven year for Becton, marked by inconsistent play and lingering durability concerns. Detroit’s offensive line has been one of the team’s biggest strengths, and maintaining that stability is critical. Bringing in a player who has struggled with both performance and availability could disrupt the continuity the Lions have built up front.
4. Lloyd Cushenberry, Center
Center Lloyd Cushenberry is expected to be available in free agency, and Detroit could be looking for help along the interior offensive line. However, Cushenberry’s 2025 season raised red flags.
He allowed 25 pressures and six sacks over the course of the year, numbers that placed him among the more vulnerable centers in pass protection. The Lions’ offense relies heavily on keeping the pocket clean for quarterback Jared Goff, and interior pressure can be especially damaging. Given Detroit’s need for dependable protection up the middle, Cushenberry may not be the best solution.
5. Trevon Diggs, Cornerback
Cornerback Trevon Diggs has long been known for his ball-hawking ability, but his overall performance has been inconsistent in recent seasons. Injuries have limited his availability, and when he has been on the field, opposing quarterbacks have frequently targeted him.
In 2025, Diggs struggled to regain his pre-injury form. While he still has the ability to make splash plays, he has also given up significant yardage in coverage. Detroit’s defense needs stability and reliability in the secondary, especially as it looks to compete with high-powered offenses across the NFC.
Free agency always carries risk, and the Lions must be careful about where they invest their resources. While each of these players has talent, their recent performance and overall fit raise enough concerns that Detroit would likely be better served exploring other options. If the Lions want to take the next step toward a championship, avoiding costly mistakes could be just as important as making the right signings.