Detroit remains on the hunt for a star pass rusher after Maxx Crosby rumors cooled. ESPN analyst Matt Bowen suggests a veteran solution from the Dallas Cowboys to solidify the Lions' defensive line before the 2026 season kicks off.

After a trade collapse with the Baltimore Ravens, Crosby remains in Las Vegas. The Detroit Lions' general manager, Brad Holmes, doesn't seem interested in signing an expensive veteran edge rusher. But, ESPN's Matt Bowen thinks Jadeveon Clowney could be an option.

"Detroit drafted edge rusher Derrick Moore in the second round to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson on pass-rushing downs, but Clowney would provide more depth up front," Bowen said on Monday.

The Lions' 2026 NFL Draft class includes Michigan Wolverines edge, rusher Derrick Moore. But there is still an edge-rusher available who can be perfect for the Lions, that is, Jadeveon Clowney.

Clowney has played with seven NFL teams, and the Dallas Cowboys were his most recent team in 2025. The defensive end remains an unrestricted free agent.

Clowney recorded 8.5 sacks and 32 pressures last season in 13 games for the Cowboys. Over his career, the 33-year-old has amassed 66.5 sacks and 450 total tackles.

While Bowen thinks he could solve this problem, Brad Berreman of SideLion added that the chances of the Lions signing Clowney are very low compared to the chances in March.

With Clowney still being available, the former No. 1 overall pick should be a top free agent fit.

But while veteran names like Jadeveon Clowney continue dominating free agency conversations, Detroit’s attention is also quietly shifting toward a new group of under-the-radar hopefuls fighting for roster spots.

The Detroit Lions UDFA Rankings Reveal Favorites to Make Final Roster

The Lions' undrafted free agent class is already under the spotlight following the 2026 NFL Draft, with newcomers seen as roster contenders.

As per Jeremy Reisman of SB Nation, defensive tackle Aidan Keanaaina appears to have the strongest chance (around 15%) of earning a spot on Detroit's 53-man roster due to the team's need for defensive line depth.

Linebacker Erick Hunter and EDGE Anthony Lucas also have intriguing prospects because of Detroit's thin depth in key defense positions.

QB Luke Altmyer is another name to watch after a productive college career at Illinois. Pride of Detroit reported he has a realistic opportunity to secure a practice squad spot

Lions have consistently used training camp competition to uncover hidden contributors under Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes, making this year's UDFA group especially important heading into preseason.

What are your views on Clowney's signing? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote