Free agency is full of wish lists, but the Lions rarely follow the crowd. If I’m channeling Brad Holmes, these are five free agents I believe Detroit will actually sign — based on fit, value and the type of players this front office loves to target.
Free agency always brings plenty of speculation. Every offseason, fans create wish lists of players they want the team to sign. The reality is the Detroit Lions’ front office often has different plans.
General manager Brad Holmes has built a reputation for targeting specific types of players — veterans who fit the culture, players coming off injuries who could be value signings, and guys with connections to the coaching staff.
With that in mind, I’m doing my best Holmes impersonation and calling my shot on five free agents I believe Detroit could realistically sign.
1. Jedrick Wills Jr., OT
The Lions could use more depth along the offensive line, especially with questions surrounding the long-term stability at tackle. That makes Jedrick Wills Jr. an intriguing option.
Wills, a former first-round pick, is reportedly set to meet with the Lions this week. If Detroit wants a potential starter or strong depth piece at left tackle, he could make a lot of sense.
According to Pro Football Focus, Wills has been consistently strong in pass protection. His pass-block efficiency numbers show steady performance over his career:
• 2024: 95.5%
• 2023: 94.6%
• 2022: 96.1%
• 2021: 96.0%
• 2020: 97.7%
Wills didn’t play in 2025 due to injury, which could lower his market value and make him an attractive buy-low candidate. Holmes has repeatedly targeted players coming off injuries if the talent is still there, and Wills could provide Detroit with both depth and starting potential.
2. Kamren Curl, S
The Lions could also look to reinforce the secondary, particularly at safety. Detroit may begin the season without both starters after injuries to Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.
That makes Kamren Curl a very logical target.
Curl had a strong season in 2025, earning a 73.1 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked 16th among safeties. His run defense was even better, posting an 84.7 grade — the sixth best at the position.
He was heavily involved in his team’s defense, playing 1,112 total snaps. Curl also logged 676 coverage snaps, the third most among safeties in the league.
Statistically, he finished the season with two interceptions, three pass breakups and allowed 45 receptions in coverage. Curl’s versatility as both a coverage defender and run supporter would make him a valuable piece in Detroit’s defense while the Lions wait for their injured starters to return.
3. Najee Harris, RB
This is one signing that may not excite everyone, but it fits a pattern Holmes has followed before.
Najee Harris has been one of the better pass-blocking running backs in the NFL throughout his career. That trait alone makes him valuable in a Detroit offense that asks its running backs to do a lot in protection.
Harris is coming off a torn Achilles suffered early in the season on Sept. 21. That injury could significantly reduce his price on the open market, which is exactly the type of value signing Detroit often looks for.
Even if he isn’t immediately back to full form, Harris’ experience, physical running style and ability to protect the quarterback could give the Lions a reliable rotational back.
4. Cam Jordan, EDGE
Veteran leadership is something the Lions have valued during their rebuild, and Cam Jordan could bring plenty of it.
Jordan has a long history with Lions head coach Dan Campbell from their time together with the New Orleans Saints. That familiarity could make Detroit a natural landing spot if the team wants an experienced pass rusher.
Even at this stage of his career, Jordan showed he can still produce. He finished last season with 10.5 sacks while continuing to be a disruptive force along the defensive line.
For a Lions defense looking to add depth and leadership on the edge, Jordan could serve as both a productive rotational player and a veteran mentor for younger defenders.
5. Mo Alie-Cox, TE
Finally, Detroit could look to add depth at tight end behind Sam LaPorta.
Mo Alie-Cox would fit the mold of what the Lions like in a backup tight end. Known primarily for his blocking ability, Alie-Cox has been a reliable role player throughout his career.
Last season he appeared in 17 games and contributed as both a blocker and situational receiver. While he isn’t a high-volume pass catcher, his size and strength make him a valuable piece in heavy formations and short-yardage situations.
Detroit’s offense thrives on versatility, and adding a tight end who can help in the run game while occasionally contributing in the passing attack would fit perfectly into the Lions’ system.