The Detroit Lions roared into the 2025 season with sky-high expectations after a dominant 15-2 campaign in 2024. However, the NFL is a league of brutal parity, and the Lions were handed a stark reminder, stumbling to a 9-8 finish and watching the playoffs from home. That disappointment has fueled a determined offseason from GM Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell, who are hell-bent on ensuring 2026 ends differently.
While the Lions have been busy in free agency, bringing in 16 new faces, the strategy has raised eyebrows. Instead of chasing splashy, big-name signings, Detroit has focused on value and fit. A prime example is addressing the perceived need for a pass-rushing complement to star Aidan Hutchinson. The answer came in the form of DJ Wonnum on a modest one-year deal, a move that suggests the front office sees untapped potential rather than a glaring hole.
The plot thickened when veteran left tackle Taylor Decker was released, immediately sparking speculation that the Lions would target his replacement with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Conventional wisdom says protecting quarterback Jared Goff is paramount, and losing a stalwart like Decker creates a major need. Yet, Holmes and the Lions' brass are challenging that narrative.
Their counter-move was signing tackle Larry Borom, a 27-year-old with starting experience for the Miami Dolphins. While his Pro Football Focus grade (64th among tackles) won't blow anyone away, the Lions see a capable, young player on an upward trajectory. This signing, Holmes insists, alleviates the pressure to reach for a tackle early in the draft. "You’re talking about guys that have been starters in the NFL," Holmes stated. "We feel good about both of them, so we don’t feel like we have to be boxed in."
This philosophy throws a fascinating curveball into draft projections. Many analysts still have the Lions locked in on an edge rusher or offensive tackle with the 17th overall pick, especially with All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell likely shifting to the left side. But Detroit's actions signal a commitment to their internal evaluations and a "best player available" approach. For a team built on grit and finding diamonds in the rough, this flexibility could be their secret weapon as they aim to claw their way back to the top of the NFC North.