Lions GM Brad Holmes is currently embroiled in a dizzying round of player evaluations, priority trade considerations, and contract negotiations. One of the Lions’ top priorities is finding a talented pass rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson. However, with Carlton Davis announcing his availability in free agency, Holmes also needs to find another veteran cornerback.
The Cincinnati Bengals shocked the NFL yesterday announcing Pro Bowl talent Trey Hendrickson will be exploring trade options. Hendrickson or the Los Angeles Chargers’ Khalil Mack could be an answer for the Lions’ pass rush. But with 29 Lions players set to hit free agency next week, Holmes’ immediate priority is to get the Lions’ house in order by extending or cutting current players before trading for a major talent like Mack or Hendrickson.
Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions’ Top Priority
Failing to secure a player’s contract is a rarity for the Lions. The franchise has become one of the most respected and heavily sought after by NFL Players looking to make a move. Detroit is the perfect landing spot, offering a fresh start with a competitive, highly successful team, a superior coaching staff, and great administration.
The front office has a reputation for taking care of its players with smooth, efficient contract negotiations. Most of the contract extensions are quietly addressed behind the scenes during the offseason. Since the current administration has been in charge, there’s been a complete absence of the messy contract disputes and holdouts so commonplace in other NFL organizations.
The Lions avoid any unnecessary drama by proactively extending players as soon as they are eligible rather than bickering or using delay tactics. By doing so, they help set the market rate for a designated player position rather than having to meet or exceed a much higher price point later in the year.
Hands Full
Holmes has his hands full navigating salary cap constraints, planning contract extensions for key personnel, and determining which players they can’t afford to keep.
As former first-round picks, the Lions can extend the contracts of Hutchinson and Jameson Williams this year. Contract extensions for Kerby Joseph and Alex Anzalone are also top priorities. Joseph led the NFL this year with nine interceptions. Anzalone’s contribution to this team goes far beyond his superior talent. An outstanding leader, he elevates the play of the entire team when he’s on the field.
If Davis is truly on his way out of Detroit, re-signing Darius Slay, following his recent release from the Philadelphia Eagles might be an option. Despite his age (34), Slay was very popular when he was with the Lions. He has a proven track record and represented Detroit in the Pro Bowl three years in a row. Returning to Detroit with a Super Bowl win on his resume, he can easily step in and make an impact.
Lions Unrestricted Free Agent Priorities
Lions EDGE Defender Priorities
Hutchinson’s fifth-year option allows the Lions to extend his contract this year. Hutchinson isn’t going anywhere. The Lions will offer their first-round draft pick an attractive new contract. Despite his injury, the heart and soul of the Lions’ defense still ranked among the NFL’s top performers last year.
Za’Darius Smith was a welcome addition to the Lions following Hutchinson’s injury. However, for the Lions to bring him back this year would entail a hefty price tag. Smith’s contract specifies $5.7 million due in 2025 and another $5.25 million in 2026.
In addition to Anzalone, most of the linebackers have become unrestricted free agents this year. Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez are key players who absolutely should be re-signed. Jalen Reeves-Maybin’s recent release likely indicated that Holmes was making room for their contract extensions.
Finally, Holmes also has to prioritize Amik Robertson’s contract. If Davis does end up elsewhere, the combination of second-year cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw will need Robertson’s veteran talents. Arnold had a rough start, but by mid-season, he adjusted to his new role and finished the season strong. Rakestraw’s early season injury cost him valuable game time and Robertson stepped up in his absence. Robertson’s 40 solo tackles, three forced fumbles, and eight pass defenses made a big contribution to the Lions injury-depleted defense.
Over the next three months, expect to hear that the Lions have agreed to terms with most of these talented individuals. Holmes and the Lions front office will continue to earn the trust of their players by recognizing and rewarding their contribution to the team.
