Lions Prioritize Offensive Line Depth Over Edge Rusher in Free Agency

Signing of swing tackle Larry Borom raises questions about Detroit's strategic approach

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:52pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, multi-angled view of a football game, with sharp planes of deep blue, burnt orange, and steel gray hues, conceptually representing the Lions' measured offseason approach.The Lions' offseason moves reflect a cautious approach focused on stability over bold upgrades, raising questions about the team's long-term strategic vision.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Lions' decision to sign offensive tackle Larry Borom to a one-year, $5 million contract has been met with some criticism, as many believe the team should have prioritized upgrading its pass rush over adding depth to the offensive line. While Borom provides reliable depth and versatility, some argue the resources could have been better spent on a high-upside edge defender to bolster the team's biggest weakness.

Why it matters

In the modern NFL, where pass rush is a critical component of defensive success, the Lions' choice to invest in a swing tackle rather than a more impactful edge defender is seen by some as a missed opportunity to significantly improve the team's ceiling. The move signals a cautious, incremental approach focused on roster flexibility and cap discipline over a more aggressive, high-upside strategy.

The details

The Lions signed Larry Borom, a 25-year-old offensive tackle, to a one-year, $5 million contract. Borom is expected to serve as the team's OT3, providing depth and versatility behind the starting tackles. While Borom's tape from limited starts last season was respectable, especially in pass protection, some argue the Lions could have found a cheaper option to fill that role and instead used the resources to pursue a more impactful edge rusher to address the team's biggest defensive weakness.

  • The Lions signed Borom to a one-year, $5 million contract on April 10, 2026.

The players

Larry Borom

A 25-year-old offensive tackle who the Lions signed to a one-year, $5 million contract to serve as the team's OT3 and provide depth and versatility on the offensive line.

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What’s next

The Lions will continue to evaluate their roster and options in the upcoming NFL Draft, where they may have the opportunity to address their pass rush needs with a high-upside edge defender.

The takeaway

The Lions' decision to sign Larry Borom to a one-year, $5 million contract highlights the team's cautious, incremental approach to roster-building, which some believe may be a missed opportunity to significantly improve the team's defensive ceiling by investing in a high-impact edge rusher.