The Detroit Lions are reportedly exploring the possibility of bolstering their defensive front with a familiar face from the NFC North. According to recent reports, veteran defensive end DeMarcus Walker, formerly of the Chicago Bears, visited the Lions last week as he continues his search for a new team ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Detroit’s offseason strategy has surprised many fans and analysts. Despite having clear room for improvement in their pass rush, the Lions opted not to pursue any high-profile edge rushers in free agency. Instead, they chose a more conservative route, re-signing depth pieces like Al-Quadin Muhammad, Pat O’Connor, and Mitchell Agude. While those signings maintain some continuity, they don’t move the needle for a defense that still needs consistent pressure opposite star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson.
Many Lions fans had hoped the team would retain Za’Darius Smith, who gave the unit a spark after joining mid-season via trade. However, with Smith’s future uncertain, Detroit remains in need of reinforcements on the edge.
That’s where Walker comes into play. At 30 years old, Walker brings veteran experience and production that could prove valuable in a rotational or even starting role. Last season with the Bears, he posted 47 total tackles (a career-high), 16 quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. He also registered 23 quarterback pressures, showing an uptick in productivity compared to his 2023 season (22 pressures). Over two seasons in Chicago, he compiled 45 pressures, 32 QB hits, 16 tackles for loss, and seven sacks in 34 games.
Although his Pro Football Focus grades were modest — a 61.3 pass-rush grade (ranked 94th out of 211 eligible edge defenders) and a 62.3 run defense grade (90th) — his steady production and veteran presence could offer the Lions much-needed depth and flexibility.
Walker’s visit with Detroit doesn’t guarantee a deal, especially since he’s also drawn interest from other teams. NFL Network’s Peter Schrager reported that Walker was scheduled to meet with the New York Giants shortly after his Lions visit.
Signing Walker could provide Detroit with an experienced and motivated player looking to bounce back after being released by the Bears during the early days of free agency. With the draft looming and free-agent options dwindling, the Lions could see Walker as a low-risk, high-reward addition to strengthen their defensive line rotation before the season kicks off.
