Former Browns OT Jedrick Wills Jr.'s visit to the Lions signals a depth-first free agent move; if he signs, expect improved pass protection and fewer Jared Goff sacks — bettors might back lower sacks props or slightly adjust Lions team totals. Given his injury history, markets would likely treat any signing as a modest boost rather than a game-changing upgrade.
Jedrick Wills Jr. Visits Detroit as Lions Explore Tackle Depth
Former No. 10 overall pick Jedrick Wills Jr. visited the Detroit Lions as part of a free-agent tour that has included other teams. Once a promising left tackle, Wills is courting opportunities after sitting out the 2025 season to rehab a lingering knee injury. The meeting with Detroit adds him to the list of veteran options the Lions are evaluating to bolster offensive line depth.
Draft pedigree and early pro performance
Wills was selected No. 10 overall in the 2020 NFL Draft and started 45 games at left tackle over his first three NFL seasons. Early in his career he showed strong pass-blocking ability, which prompted his former team to pick up his fifth-year option. His run-blocking results have been more modest, with PFF run grades peaking around the low 60s.
Injury timeline and recent availability
Midway through the 2023 season Wills suffered an MCL injury that derailed his availability and performance. He played just eight games in 2023 and five in 2024, then elected to sit out 2025 to continue rehabbing the knee. The extended absence has created questions about long-term durability and whether he can regain his early-career pass-protection form.
Familiar coaching connection
The Lions’ new offensive coordinator worked with Wills during the 2020–22 period in Cleveland, a factor that could ease evaluation and scheme fit. That familiarity could make Detroit a logical landing spot if both sides agree a short-term depth deal is appropriate.
Where Wills fits in Detroit’s roster picture
With Taylor Decker announcing his return for the 2026 season, Detroit has no immediate vacancy at left tackle. Wills would likely be viewed as a rotational piece, insurance for injuries, or a developmental candidate who could compete for a future starting role. The Lions have indicated they’re planning to address the tackle position long-term via free agency, the draft, or trade, and Wills represents a low-risk veteran option in that mix.
Betting implications and outlook
A signing would most directly impact offensive-line and quarterback-sack markets; improved depth could reduce Jared Goff’s expected sack totals and slightly lower team-over forecasts on offensive line struggles. Given Wills’ recent injury history, sportsbooks and bettors are likely to treat any deal as a modest, not transformational, upgrade — favoring small market adjustments rather than major line moves.
Next steps
Wills has visited multiple teams and additional meetings are expected. Detroit’s evaluation will hinge on medical checks, scheme fit and whether the club views him as a short-term depth option or a potential long-term piece.
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The Detroit Lions hosted former Cleveland Browns first-round offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. on a free agency visit.
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