Tracking the Detroit Lions’ roster during the offseason can be complex, so this article aims to simplify the process for fans by compiling all key roster changes, including signings, re-signings, tags, and losses. This continuously updated guide will focus on the Lions’ 2025 roster as they head into free agency and the NFL Draft. The article is organized by position groups, giving an overview of players under contract, on injured reserve, or in the practice squad at season’s end.
Each section will feature a depth chart of the position, describe players’ roles, include 2025 contract details, and highlight important terms to clarify their situations. There will also be links to further articles for fans seeking additional details.
Key Terms to Know:
- UFA (Unrestricted Free Agents): These players can sign with any team when free agency starts on March 12 (tampering negotiations begin on March 10). The Lions can re-sign them at any time.
- RFA (Restricted Free Agents): The Lions hold rights to RFAs. If an RFA signs with another team, the Lions can match the offer or receive draft compensation if they let the player go.
- ERFA (Exclusive Rights Free Agents): These players are only allowed to negotiate contracts with the Lions, unless the team decides to let them explore other options.
- SFA (Street Free Agents): These are players who were under contract with an NFL team in 2024 but were not on an active roster by season’s end. They are free to sign with any team immediately. Most SFAs were on practice squads.
- Futures Contracts: These are deals given to street free agents before free agency officially starts. While these players are signed, the contracts don’t count against the salary cap until the start of free agency.
2025 Cap Hit:
This refers to how much a player impacts the Lions’ 2025 salary cap. Guarantees Remaining: This indicates the guaranteed money still owed to a player over the duration of their contract. If the Lions cut a player with guaranteed money, the remaining amount will count against the salary cap, even if the player is no longer on the roster (called “dead cap”).
Quarterback:
The Lions are set with Goff, Hooker, and Fromm under contract, leaving little pressure to make quick decisions. They could bring in another camp arm, but Bridgewater is likely focused on coaching high school football, though he could return to the NFL later. If that happens, Detroit would probably offer him a coaching role.
Running Back:
Gibbs and Montgomery are firmly locked in as the Lions’ top duo. Vaki provides valuable depth, while Reynolds and Jefferson are pending free agents. Reynolds might not receive an RFA tag, but a new contract seems possible as the Lions value him in the RB3 role. Jefferson’s failure to sign a futures deal suggests either he or the team is exploring other options.
Wide Receiver:
The Lions’ top receivers, St. Brown, Williams, and Raymond, are returning, but the team needs to add a WR-X. Patrick had a great season and should be a priority for re-signing. Robinson, while a key veteran, may be nearing the end of his career. Could Antoine Green step up and compete for the WR-X role? Ronnie Bell and Peoples-Jones could also be in the mix, especially with Bell being a system fit and Peoples-Jones looking for a fresh start.
Tight End:
The Lions’ top two tight ends are returning, with Zylstra showing improvement and earning a new contract. Zylstra may not receive an RFA tag but is expected to stay with the team. While tight end depth may need addressing in 2026, there’s no urgency to add anyone significant this offseason.
Offensive Line:
Galvin is likely to receive a league-minimum offer as an ERFA, keeping him with the team. Skipper, the sixth offensive lineman, is not under contract for next season, and there’s potential for the team to add competition at the backup tackle spot. The team will also need to plan for the future, as veterans Zeitler and Glasgow will need to be replaced in the coming years. Mahogany could fill one of those roles, and the Lions might seek another guard this offseason.
Defensive Line:
With McNeill recovering from injury, Reader in a contract year, and both Onwuzurike and O’Connor as pending free agents, the interior defensive line needs attention. Onwuzurike’s injury history may impact his free agency, but the Lions could re-sign O’Connor and Peko as insurance while waiting for Martin’s development.
Edge Rusher:
Hutchinson is set to return, but the Lions will need to address the opposite edge rusher. Paschal and Smith were starters, but more pass-rush depth is needed. Smith’s contract carries significant guaranteed money, so the Lions might opt to release him before March 15, which would result in no cap penalties. Expect the team to target at least one high-upside pass rusher this offseason.
Linebacker:
The SAM linebacker role, introduced last season by Aaron Glenn, was played by Derrick Barnes, who is now a free agent. The future of this position will depend on the philosophy of new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, who may modify the role. Nowaske is likely to return as an ERFA, while Pittman, Niemann, and Turner are special teams contributors who could also be retained.
Cornerback:
The Lions currently have only half of their 2024 cornerbacks under contract for 2025, so the position needs depth. While Arnold, Robertson, and Rakestraw could be viable starters, the team will need to add at least one player to compete for a starting role. Retaining Davis, who is an ideal starting corner, will be a priority. The team may also want to bring back Vildor as solid depth and keep Dorsey, one of the top non-kicking special teamers.
Safety:
The Lions have one of the best safety tandems in the league, and adding Melifonwu increases their range. However, Melifonwu’s injury history is a concern, making his future with the team a tricky decision. The Lions will have to weigh whether they can rely on his health and what contract terms make sense for both sides.
