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The Detroit Lions head into free agency with more questions than certainties. From cap math to roster holes, general manager decisions will shape how far this team can climb. Here are three realistic targets who could move the needle for Detroit this spring.
Salary cap picture: how much wiggle room do the Lions really have?
Contract moves will dictate Detroit’s activity in free agency. Right now the team sits about $6.72 million over the salary cap. That puts the front office in a tight spot without restructures or extensions.
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But the Lions also have levers to pull. If Detroit restructures several high-dollar contracts, projections show they could potentially open as much as $130 million in cap space.
That theoretical maximum gives the Lions flexibility. It also raises the question of how aggressive Detroit wants to be. Will they spend big on marquee names, or fund a handful of smart, short-term additions?
- Small moves: One-year deals to fill depth and minimize long-term risk.
- Major moves: Long-term investments that require deeper cap commitments.
- Blend: Restructure core salaries and sign a mix of veterans and reclamation players.
Isiah Pacheco: a budget-friendly running back to back up Jahmyr Gibbs
Detroit traded David Montgomery and now faces a clear backfield hierarchy. Jahmyr Gibbs figures to remain the lead option.
That makes a veteran, cost-controlled running back the likely target. Isiah Pacheco fits that profile.
Pacheco’s recent seasons were interrupted by injuries. He suffered a fibula fracture in 2024 and an MCL issue in 2025. Still, he posted 118 carries for 462 yards and a touchdown in 2025 while splitting reps.
For Detroit, Pacheco offers a low-cost plan B who can handle a 100–150 touch workload. A one-year “prove-it” contract would align both parties’ interests.
Why Pacheco makes sense
- Affordable short-term deal with upside.
- Proven between-the-tackles runner in a complementary role.
- Motivated to rebuild market value after injuries.
Other names like Tyler Allgeier could be realistic fits, but they may seek multi-year security. Players such as Brian Robinson or Najee Harris present alternatives if Detroit wants a more durable thumper.
Daniel Bellinger: beefing up tight end depth behind Sam LaPorta
Tight end has quietly become a concern for Detroit. Sam LaPorta remains the starter, but his back injury late last season raises availability questions.
Brock Wright provides backup reps, but beyond him the depth chart thins quickly. With Shane Zylstra and Anthony Firkser pending free agency, adding a reliable No. 2 tight end feels prudent.
Daniel Bellinger checks many boxes. He has played in systems led by passing-coordinator-minded coaches and produced useful receiving numbers as a reserve.
Bellinger’s profile and fit
- Age 25, still developing and coachable.
- Recorded 19 catches for 286 yards and two touchdowns in 2025.
- Familiarity with Lions passing coach Mike Kafka could accelerate a transition.
Bellinger won’t be a headline-grabbing splash. But he offers steadiness, route versatility, and the upside to be a dependable secondary target if LaPorta needs managed reps early in the season.
Jedrick Wills Jr.: a former top-10 pick who could reclaim his value
Detroit has a history of betting on reclamation projects. Jedrick Wills Jr. is a prime candidate for that model.
Wills missed the 2025 season with a knee injury. Still, multiple teams have hosted him for visits, signaling continued interest in his upside when healthy.
As a former top-10 draft choice, Wills carries pedigree. If medical checks are clean, he could provide competition on the left side or transition inside to guard.
How Wills could help the Lions
- Low-cost, short-term deal reduces risk for Detroit.
- Offers positional flexibility between tackle and guard.
- Veteran experience that could stabilize the offensive line.
A one-year “prove-it” contract would be logical. Wills can attempt to reset his market value, while Detroit gains an experienced lineman without a major cap burden.
