The Detroit Lions have already dipped into the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive talent pool this offseason by signing defensive tackle Roy Lopez. Now, some analysts believe the Lions should consider another former Cardinals defender: edge rusher Dennis Gardeck.
In a recent article highlighting free agents who could still make an impact for each NFL team, Bleacher Report’s Maurice Moton suggested Gardeck as a potential addition for Detroit. While the Lions could benefit from more depth at the edge rusher position, Gardeck might not be the ideal fit for what they truly need at this point in the offseason.
Unlike Lopez, who brings reliability and depth to the interior defensive line, Gardeck has struggled to make a consistent impact in a full-time role. Over his seven-year NFL career, Gardeck has recorded just 17 sacks and has never played more than 50% of his team’s defensive snaps in a single season. His contributions have been mostly as a rotational pass rusher and special teams player rather than a consistent edge threat.
The Lions are currently searching for a dependable edge rusher to start opposite star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson. With their eyes set on competing deep into the playoffs in 2025, Detroit needs someone capable of holding down that starting role—not just someone to rotate in occasionally. Gardeck, while experienced, doesn’t appear to offer the level of production or durability required to fill such a crucial position.
If the Lions are intent on improving their pass rush depth, the upcoming NFL Draft may offer better value. Several promising prospects could be available in the mid-to-late rounds, giving Detroit the chance to add young, high-upside talent to the defensive line without committing cap space to a player with limited starting experience.
While the suggestion to pursue Gardeck isn’t without merit—his energy and special teams ability are assets—the Lions must aim higher if they want to solidify their defensive front and take the next step toward championship contention.
That said, the Lions shouldn’t stop addressing the edge position this offseason. Depth is critical over the course of a long season, and having reliable contributors behind starters can make the difference in close games or when injuries strike. However, Gardeck’s limited production and playing time suggest he may not be the right option to meet Detroit’s immediate needs.
