What if Detroit added a future Hall of Famer off the edge and one of the NFL’s premier ballhawks on the back end? Khalil Mack and Kevin Byard could be the veteran pieces that push the Lions from contender to champion.
As the Detroit Lions prepare for another offseason of roster upgrades, two veteran defenders could provide the leadership and impact that have been hallmarks of contending NFL teams. Adding proven playmakers like Khalil Mack and Kevin Byard would bolster Detroit’s defense with experience, production and championship credibility, addressing areas of need as the Lions aim to build on recent postseason progress.
Khalil Mack: Still a Disruptor at 34
Edge rusher Khalil Mack would immediately upgrade Detroit’s pass rush and bring a Hall of Fame résumé to coach Dan Campbell’s defense. Mack, a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time first-team All-Pro, has been one of the most dominant defenders of his era and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2016.
Across his 12-year career with the Raiders, Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Chargers, Mack has amassed 113 sacks, 481 solo tackles and 32 forced fumbles, ranking among the most prolific defenders of his generation. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks, with consistent pressure and tackle-for-loss production has been a disruptive force on every team he’s played for.
Even as he approaches his mid-30s, Mack remains an effective edge presence. In the 2025 season, he notched six sacks, three forced fumbles and maintained strong run-defense grades, showing he can still impact games in multiple facets. While his snap count has declined from earlier in his career, Detroit could benefit from Mack’s ability to elevate younger players around him while still producing at a high level on crucial downs.
Detroit’s defense, which has shown flashes of dominance, would suddenly be stronger with Mack opposite Aidan Hutchinson or other emerging pass rushers. His leadership and postseason experience could be invaluable for a Lions unit seeking deeper playoff runs.
Kevin Byard: Ballhawk Safety and Locker Room Leader
On the back end of the defense, veteran safety Kevin Byard would be a contender’s dream addition. The 32-year-old has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s premier ballhawks and tackling safeties, consistently making big plays over his decade in the league.
Over his career, Byard has compiled over 880 tackles and 32 interceptions, ranking among the most productive defensive backs of his generation. In 2025, Byard led the NFL with seven interceptions, while also tallying 93 tackles and eight passes defended, numbers that earned him Pro Bowl honors and placement on multiple All-Pro lists.
Byard’s presence in the secondary would provide Detroit with a playmaker who can change the momentum of a game. His knack for creating turnovers, and his ability to mentor younger defensive backs aligns perfectly with a defensive philosophy that values versatility, communication, and big-play potential.
Why Detroit Should Pursue Both
Pairing Mack and Byard would give the Lions experience at both the front and back of their defense. Mack’s pressure from the edge could force hurried throws right into the range of a ballhawk like Byard. Together, they could transform Detroit’s defense from strong to fearsome, helping the club compete with elite quarterbacks and high-powered offenses across the NFC.
With Detroit pushing for a championship window, adding proven veterans who can elevate teammates and perform in big moments is more than a luxury, it’s a necessity. Mack and Byard fit that mold, offering both production and leadership that could be the missing pieces in the Lions’ quest for a Super Bowl.