The Detroit Lions have the opportunity to make one big free-agent deal this offseason.
With teams now knowing that the salary cap has climbed by $30 million, general managers who have handled deals properly may afford to take a few chances on free agents.
ESPN recently proposed dramatic improvements for all 32 NFL teams ahead of the 2024 Combine.
The Lions have focused hard on improving their defence through the draft and free agency.
According to writer Aaron Schatz, the Lions should pursue one of the NFL’s top defensive tackles to fortify a club that needs to improve its pass-rushing ability.
Chris Jones, of the Kansas City Chiefs, will be one of the most sought-after free agents because of his ability to rush the passer.
“The Lions are in a strong position this summer as a division champion with cap space to improve. As a result, Schatz believes the Lions will be attached to every significant free player available, particularly on defence. “There will be talk about a lot of veterans joining the Lions in an effort to break the curse and get them to the Super Bowl.” The ideal pick, however, would be Jones of the Chiefs, who has already won three.
Last season, the Lions were 27th in pass-rush victory rate (35.8%). The continual double-teaming of Aidan Hutchinson, combined with James Houston’s injury, made it more difficult for Aaron Glenn to figure out how to produce pressure consistently without blitzing.
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Despite facing double teams, Jones finished second in pass-rush win rate (19.6%).
“The Lions could sign Jones and plug him right in as the 3-technique tackle with Levi Onwuzurike coming off the bench,” Schatz went on to say. “Jones played a very high 73% of snaps in games where he was active last season, but everybody needs a breather every so often.”
Jones would undoubtedly improve Detroit’s pass-rushing efforts.
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