The first full month of the Detroit Lions' offseason is over as the calendar flips to April. General manager Brad Holmes' work isn't done, though, as the Lions' roster is still ripe with holes that need to be addressed — especially on the defensive side of the ball — leaving time to tell if more help will be added in the coming weeks.
The Lions could use a strong pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson, improved cornerback play from Terrion Arnold, and, especially, a quarterback for their defense. There's also a hole in the linebacker room stemming from Alex Anzalone's departure, making a run at Bobby Wagner something that Holmes & Co. should consider, at least.
Lions Have a Bobby Wagner-Shaped Hole
Wagner is eager to suit up for his 15th season in the league.
Despite his age, the 35-year-old has been as durable, productive, consistent, and impactful as he was a decade ago, logging 162 tackles, eight tackles for loss, nine QB hits, 4.5 sacks, two interceptions, and four passes defensed while playing and starting all 17 games for the Washington Commanders. It was the fourth consecutive full season he's played.
The Lions only have Jack Campbell at middle linebacker now, and while he's a hard-hitting, high-volume tackler, all NFL players are one snap away from getting hurt. Also, there's no reason to believe they cannot coexist in Sheppard's system, as Wagner also has extensive experience playing in the interior.
According to Spotrac, Wagner is projected to sign a one-year, $7.7 million contract. That's a bargain for someone who's been as productive for as long as him, and even if he slows down a bit in his age-36 season, he may still give the Lions more than the average free-agent linebacker.
LB Depth Is Lacking
On top of losing Anzalone, the Lions also lost Grant Stuard in free agency. Although they managed to retain Malcolm Rodriguez and Trevor Nowaske while adding Damone Clark, they're still pretty thin at the LB. Given the way things ended for the Lions during an injury-plagued 2025 campaign, they can't afford to take any chances.
Losing former starting left tackle Taylor Decker's exit may have changed the Lions' draft plans for the first round, so they may not be able to find a hard-hitting linebacker there. They ranked near the middle of the pack in rushing yards allowed per game (114.5, 14th), so they can use some help stacking the box and stopping the run.
Wagner can do that while also being a prime head-hunter at the position.
The Lions will benefit from playing a fourth-place schedule next season, and this is their opportunity to get back to the mountaintop. The NFC North will be absolutely brutal, so adding a proven veteran with Super Bowl experience could be of great help.
Wagner hasn't shown any signs of slowing down, making it clear how signing the perennial 100-tackle stud with 10 Pro Bowl appearances under his belt would help the Lions start April right.