Four Free Agents Lions Could Target After Roster Cuts

Detroit cut to 52 players with one roster spot open; likely targets like Za'Darius Smith or Kendrick Bourne could shift depth. Betting angle: adding a veteran pass rusher such as Smith would lower opponent passing totals and boost Aidan Hutchinson sack prop value, while a veteran WR could reduce rookie Isaac TeSlaa’s early-season touchdown odds.

Detroit Lions enter season with one roster spot open

The Lions trimmed their training-camp roster down in final cuts and currently sit at 52 players, leaving a single available spot. General manager Brad Holmes moved Tim Patrick in a trade and added three names — free agent Daniel Thomas and waiver claims Tyler Lacy and Tyrus Wheat — in a busy roster window. With only one opening, Detroit is positioned to add targeted depth rather than overhauled starters.

Why Detroit needs to be selective: roster balance and injury insurance

Detroit’s roster construction shows clear strengths but also thin spots. The defensive end group relies on three true pass rushers, and injury history at Marcus Davenport’s position makes the depth question acute. On offense, the receiving corps features intriguing youth but could benefit from veteran polish, and the tackle room would welcome experienced swing options. The single open roster spot increases the value of adding a player who can contribute immediately.

Four players Detroit could target

Za'Darius Smith — instant pass‑rush insurance

Smith is available after being released earlier in the offseason and remains a plausible fit for Detroit. He offers proven pass-rush production and would slide into a rotational role behind Aidan Hutchinson and others. Smith’s presence would shore up depth if Davenport or another edge player misses time and could be deployed on obvious passing downs.

Betting note: Adding a veteran pass rusher like Smith could depress opponents’ passing volumes and make Lions sack props — particularly Hutchinson’s — more attractive to bettors.

Kendrick Bourne — veteran receiver to steady the unit

Trading Tim Patrick signals confidence in rookie Isaac TeSlaa, but the Lions may prefer a veteran safety valve for early-season situations. Bourne brings size and experience and could settle into a tertiary role, reducing pressure on TeSlaa and helping sustain consistent third-down drives while the rookie develops.

Betting note: A veteran WR addition could redistribute target share, potentially lowering prop odds for TeSlaa’s early touchdowns while stabilizing Lions team totals for prop markets.

Connor McDermott — tackle depth and competition

With Jamarco Jones listed as the tentative swing tackle, adding an experienced backup like McDermott would create competition and protect against in-season injuries. Detroit’s starting tackles are solid, but the offensive line’s young pieces would benefit from a veteran presence who knows how to step into multiple roles.

Betting note: Improved tackle depth reduces risk of offensive line breakdowns, which can slightly increase confidence in Lions offensive totals and rushing props for lead backs.

Asante Samuel Jr. — cornerback depth if healthy

Samuel’s past injuries limited him last season, but if his medicals check out he represents a high-upside addition to a cornerback room that has young talent but limited experienced depth. As a potential rotational corner, Samuel could help in nickel packages and special teams.

Betting note: A boosted secondary depth chart can lower big-play touchdown prop odds for opposing receivers and influence totals in matchups against pass-heavy teams.

What to watch next

Detroit’s front office will likely prioritize a player who can contribute immediately given the single roster opening. Watch for moves that address pass rush and receiver depth first, with offensive line and secondary options also plausible depending on medicals and availability. For bettors, any veteran additions should be factored into short-term prop adjustments and matchup expectations.

Detroit Lions 2025 free agency targets after roster cuts.

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