The Lions are making offseason moves, but not everyone is impressed. Analysts are now questioning whether the Lions’ approach could create problems going forward.

Since free agency began on March 11, the Detroit Lions have focused on 'prove-it' deals to fill roster holes for the 2026 season, avoiding high-value signings.

The strategy from GM Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell has raised concerns among NFL analysts. In light of this, NFL analysts Albert Breer and Brad Berreman spoke about the signings that they would've made.

“If I were the Lions, I would’ve topped the two-year, $20 million deal that the Texans did with Colts RT Braden Smith, and used that as a pivot point to flip All-Pro Penei Sewell over to the left side,” Albert Breer wrote.

Later, Braden Smith was signed by the Texans for a two-year deal at $20 million. Though at age 29, his injury concerns lingered, there was no doubt that he was among the top free agents available.

“Signing Smith would have been comparable to adding Kevin Zeitler a few years back, bringing in a reliable third-contract vet who you know exactly what you’re getting,” he further emphasized.

The Lions’  approach has been clear, addressing gaps through calculated moves rather than aggressive spending.

For the O-line center, Cade Mays was signed on a three-year contract at $25 million. This was followed by tackle Larry Borrom, running back Isiah Pacheco, tight end Tyler Conklin, and offensive lineman Juice Scruggs (via trading David Montgomery).

Additional defense signings such as D.J. Wonnum and Damone Clark also came, but as one-year signings. Surely, the fans have been waiting for a bigger money move. Supporting Breer’s sentiments, Brad Berreman further addressed this.

“With how critical the offensive line is to the Lions’ success, Breer is right about there being value in knowing ‘exactly what you’re getting,'” Brad wrote. “How many offensive linemen do they know what they’ll get from right now? Sewell, the recently signed Cade Mays, and Tate Ratledge?”

Three-fifths of the O-line may not be good enough for the blindside protection of quarterback Jared Goff. The analysts were not happy with the Lions' lack of apparent effort to make any kind of notable move. 

Who do the Detroit Lions Need to Build Their Roster?

The Detroit Lions may have made their moves, but the edge still feels unfinished. Pairing Aidan Hutchinson with D.J. Wonnum gives them a base, but that's about all.

There is no true third-down disruptor yet, no speed rusher to tilt games late. For a team knocking on the door, that gap stands out. The cracks do not stop there.

Larry Borom walks in as a stopgap at tackle, but replacing experience without landing elite talent leaves questions. At linebacker, the core holds, but the lack of a true coverage presence lingers.

And at safety, injuries to Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph keep the room in wait-and-watch mode rather than certainty.

The way Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have built this roster has never been centered around free agency alone. That being said, not all hope is lost.

Cade Mays and Juice Scruggs quietly reshape the middle, while the nickel group gets a reset. Isiah Pacheco and Tyler Conklin add options for star quarterback Jared Goff.

That is the theme in Detroit right now. Close, but not complete. With that window open, the next move might matter the most.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote