The Lions didn’t make a splash in free agency—but maybe that’s the point. While fans pushed for big-name stars, Brad Holmes stuck to his blueprint. So did Detroit quietly get better, or miss a golden opportunity?
After one week of free agency, the Detroit Lions have made several moves. Nothing headline-grabbing, but not inactive either. The bigger question remains: Did general manager Brad Holmes do enough?
Many fans on social media have criticized Holmes for not going all-in on star players like Maxx Crosby or Trey Hendrickson, or for failing to make a splash move. But that approach has never been Holmes’ style. He has consistently emphasized building through the draft, adding depth, and constructing a sustainable contender rather than chasing a one-year, all-in push.
Positive Moves
The Lions made a handful of additions that should bolster the roster, starting with center Cade Mays, who signed a three-year, $25 million deal. This move solidifies a position that needed stability following inconsistent play from Graham Glasgow. It may not be flashy, but it addresses a clear weakness.
Holmes’ focus on depth is also evident. Over the past three seasons, injuries have forced Detroit to rely heavily on practice squad players and backups not originally part of the 53-man roster. This offseason feels like a direct response to that issue.
The signing of DJ Wonnum reflects that shift. In seven NFL seasons, Wonnum has played at least 14 games in six of them, showing durability the Lions have lacked at times. He also brings versatility as a player capable of lining up at both defensive end and outside linebacker.
Detroit continued to prioritize versatility with the addition of Christian Izien, a defensive back who can play both safety and nickel corner. With the possibility that Brian Branch and potentially KerbyJoseph could miss time early in the season, adding depth in the secondary was a necessary move.
The Lions also brought back backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. While he is unlikely to play a significant role unless Jared Goff is injured, Bridgewater provides valuable leadership and experience in the locker room.
Another low-risk, high-upside move was signing running back Isaiah Pacheco to a one-year, $1.8 million deal. If he can return to his pre-injury form, this could end up being one of the better value signings of the offseason.
Negative Moves
One notable move the Lions did not make was re-signing Al-Quadin Muhammad, who recorded 11 sacks last season. However, the addition of Wonnum helps soften that loss. It suggests Holmes was looking for a more complete, every-down player. Muhammad played just 83 run snaps last season, compared to Wonnum’s 271, highlighting the difference in usage.
Still, there are some concerns. Most of Detroit’s signings outside of Mays were one-year deals, which limits long-term stability. It would have been encouraging to see the team invest more in multi-year contributors.
The biggest question mark remains at left tackle following the unexpected release of Taylor Decker. The Lions now face a critical decision. One option is sliding Penei Sewell to left tackle and allowing Larry Borom and a rookie to compete on the right side.
However, failing to secure a proven left tackle could be risky. Even though Decker struggled at times last season, his absence leaves a significant hole. Relying on a rookie — even a first-round pick — to protect the blind side would be a bold move for a team with championship aspirations.
Overall Grade: B
This offseason sits somewhere between solid and unspectacular. Holmes stayed true to his philosophy, prioritizing depth, durability and flexibility over splashy signings.
While it’s fair to wonder what this team might look like with a marquee addition, it’s also clear that Holmes is playing the long game. Detroit added multiple free agents, more than in previous years under Holmes, signaling a more active approach, even if it lacked star power.
In the end, the Lions may not have won free agency, but they addressed key areas and positioned themselves well heading into the draft. For now, a grade of B feels right with the potential to rise depending on what comes next.