As the salary cap tightens, the Detroit Lions face a challenging offseason with limited room to maneuver in free agency. While they may not be in the running for the league’s top free agents, the Lions are poised to make strategic moves to address key needs.
Last year, Detroit made a notable splash by signing cornerback D.J. Reed to a three-year, $48 million deal.
Unfortunately, injuries and performance issues left fans and management wanting more. Despite this, the Lions' decision to sign Reed was understandable given their need opposite Terrion Arnold.
The question now is whether this experience will make General Manager Brad Holmes hesitant to spend big again.
The Lions enter the offseason with several positions to fill. While some gaps will be addressed through re-signings and the draft, there's speculation about which position will command the most significant free-agent investment.
One area that stands out is the center position. With seven starting spots potentially up for grabs, the Lions must decide where to allocate their resources.
Offensive tackle and defensive end seem less likely to be high-spending areas. If Taylor Decker returns, the tackle position is temporarily solidified.
However, the Lions might still draft a rookie tackle to bolster their depth, especially given Giovanni Manu's lack of progress. Defensive ends are highly sought after in free agency, making it unlikely the Lions will overspend there.
Cornerback remains a strong contender for major investment, with Amik Robertson as a potential target. While Robertson struggled in 2025, the Lions' interest could make them his best option, potentially keeping costs manageable. Yet, it's uncertain if any team would offer him over $10 million annually.
The center position, however, seems ripe for investment. Graham Glasgow's disappointing performance suggests it's time for a change.
While Tate Ratledge could transition to center, relying on him without experience is risky. The Lions can't afford another season of subpar center play, making a veteran signing a smart move.
The past has shown the importance of a capable center for a successful offensive line.
This year's center prospects are underwhelming, emphasizing the need for experience over raw talent. Connor McGovern and Cade Mays are two names to watch, with projected annual values of $16.2 million and $12.2 million, respectively. While these figures might be high, the Lions could justify spending over $10 million annually for a pivotal role in their offense.
The contract Tyler Linderbaum secures this offseason could impact the market for centers like McGovern and Mays. If Linderbaum resets the center salary landscape, prices for other starting centers will rise. Although the Lions aren't expected to pursue Linderbaum, his decision could influence their timing and strategy in free agency.
Where will the Lions make their biggest splash in free agency? Share your thoughts in the comments below.