The Detroit Lions are facing a crucial offseason as they look to rebound from a disappointing home loss to the Washington Commanders. With $51 million in cap space, according to OverTheCap.com, the Lions are poised to make key additions to their defense or re-sign several of their free agents. Out of 31 free agents, 22 are unrestricted, meaning not all players are guaranteed to return.
Aaron Glenn, former Lions defensive coordinator and current head coach of the New York Jets, has become a topic of conversation at the Shrine Bowl. It’s rumored that Glenn may attempt to bring some of his former Detroit players with him to New York, including linebacker Derrick Barnes. Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda reported that Glenn might push to acquire Barnes and other defensive players like Levi Onwuzurike, cornerback Carlton Davis III, cornerback Khalil Dorsey, and linebacker Al-Quadin Muhammad.
Barnes, a fourth-round pick in 2021, will be available in free agency after completing his rookie contract. Onwuzurike, coming off a career year with 28 tackles and 13 QB hits, could also be a target for Glenn. As for Davis, who nearly earned a Pro Bowl selection before breaking his jaw late in the season, he had a standout year with 56 tackles, 11 pass deflections, two interceptions, and a 55.3% completion percentage allowed. Losing these players would be a blow to Detroit, and the team would need to find strong replacements through free agency or the draft.
