Fans of the Detroit Lions are optimistic about their team’s free agency prospects during the 2025 NFL offseason. The organization has plenty of cap money to deal with and a roster that is primed to compete right now. The Lions have been anticipated to pursue a lot of big names this offseason, but their real strategy has been unknown thus far.
That altered slightly during the NFL Combine. During his February 25 press conference at the Combine, Lions general manager Brad Holmes disclosed that he has been reviewing footage from the team’s game against the Arizona Cardinals to evaluate one of their offensive free agents. “I was thinking about our game versus Arizona in Week 3. We’re looking for a free agent on offense.” Will Hernandez stood out as the clear pick.
He has been a competent right guard for the Cardinals over his three years with the organization, but he is set to become free agency after missing the most of the 2024 season. Kevin Zeitler, the Lions’ right guard, is set to leave the organization after one season due to free agency. Hernandez should be a lower-cost option at the position. He earned $4.5 million per season over the last two years and is coming off a severe knee injury as he approaches his 30th season.
That may make him an ideal fit for the Lions at the position, as they may already have a starter on the roster. Christian Mahogany had limited playing experience as a rookie, but he made two good starts. Bringing in Hernandez would provide insurance if Mahogany isn’t the answer, but it shouldn’t be too expensive if he only serves as a backup.
Greg Dortch might also be an option, as Tim Patrick is set to become a free agent and Khalif Raymond may be released this summer. That would leave gaps at receiver and in the return game, making Dortch an interesting prospect for the Lions. Whoever the Lions are looking at, this is the first clear clue Holmes has offered of who the team may pursue in free agency this offseason.
Leave a Reply