Detroit Lions Position Groups That Got Better and Worse in Free Agency

Analyzing roster changes of Lions after two weeks of free agency

Mar. 22, 2026 at 1:03pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Detroit Lions have made several notable moves this offseason, with veterans like Taylor Decker, Graham Glasgow and David Montgomery departing, and new additions joining the roster. The team has been active in free agency, signing double-digit newcomers, though only one of those deals is a multi-year contract, leading to some uncertainty about the team's outlook for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

The Lions' offseason moves have significantly reshaped the roster, with some position groups improving while others have gotten worse. These changes will impact the team's performance and outlook for the 2026 NFL season.

The details

The Lions have made improvements to their interior offensive line, tight end, and safety positions. They signed Cade Mays and acquired Juice Scruggs to bolster the interior line, while adding veteran tight end Tyler Conklin to complement Sam LaPorta. The team also expects to get Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch back from injury at safety. However, the defensive line and linebacker groups have taken a hit, with the departures of Al-Quadin Muhammad, Alex Anzalone, and Taylor Decker leaving holes to fill.

  • The Lions made several notable moves throughout the offseason.
  • Free agency began in March 2026.

The players

Cade Mays

An offensive lineman signed by the Lions to a three-year deal, expected to compete for the starting center role.

Juice Scruggs

An experienced offensive lineman acquired by the Lions via trade, who will compete for playing time.

Tyler Conklin

A veteran tight end signed by the Lions, who will likely compete to be the second tight end behind starter Sam LaPorta.

Kerby Joseph

A Lions safety who suffered a season-ending injury in 2025, expected to return and improve the team's secondary.

Brian Branch

A Lions safety who also suffered a season-ending injury in 2025, expected to return and improve the team's secondary.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Lions will continue to evaluate their roster and may look to address remaining needs through the upcoming NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Lions' offseason moves have significantly reshaped the roster, with some position groups improving while others have gotten worse. The team's performance and outlook for the 2026 season will depend on how well the new additions and returning players perform.