The Detroit Lions are exploring options to strengthen their defensive depth ahead of the draft. A prospect with 63 tackles has now emerged as a potential target.

According to the NFL’s transaction wire, the Detroit Lions hosted Pittsburgh Steelers free agent defensive tackle Isaiahh Loudermilk for a visit on Tuesday.

The Lions are potentially eyeing him to increase depth on the defensive end. 

NFL draft expert Dane Brugler shared back in 2021, "He is quick off the snap to knife through gaps, using his hands to pry open the shoulder of blockers, but his counter measures are often ineffective if he doesn’t win at the snap.”

Isaiahh Loudermilk was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers from the 2021 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin as a fifth-round and 156th overall pick. 

During his collegiate days, he played for Wisconsin and covered 63 yards in the field. He was drafted with a prospect rate of 5.55. 

The 6ft 7in standing tall Loudermilk is known for his build and huge hands. He sits at the Pro Football Focus grade of 32.8 and has played 37 snaps through his five-year career with the Steelers. 

As goes by the history of the Lions, he is yet again another player with injury history. Loudermilk was on the injury-reserved list for the 2025 season. He only played two games in the last season. He suffered from a high ankle sprain while playing against the Seattle Seahawks.

How Isaiahh Loudermilk Fits Into the Detroit Lions Defensive Rotation

There might be concerns regarding this visit, as it is yet another gamble with a player with injury history. The Lions are bringing Loudermilk in to fill snaps in rotation and add size to the interior. 

At 6-foot-7, he brings a different physical profile, someone who can occupy blockers, hold gaps, and allow edge rushers like Aidan Hutchinson to stay cleaner on the outside.

The fit comes down to situational and rotational usage. Loudermilk profiles as an early-down rotational piece, someone who can step in during run-heavy packages and keep the defensive front fresh. 

He’s not a high-production pass rusher, with 63 tackles and a sack, but that’s not what Detroit would be asking from him. 

If Loudermilk can stay healthy and handle limited snaps effectively, he gives the Lions another option to stabilize the rotation without disrupting the overall structure of the defense.

What do you think, should the Lions pursue Loudermilk? Share your thoughts with us.

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Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Kalp Thaker