Despite ranking fifth in points (28.3) and third in passing yards (253.1) per game, the Detroit Lions’ offense wasn’t nearly as creative or explosive as it was when they had former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as the play caller. Heading into this offseason, general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell knew they needed to upgrade their offensive coaching staff to capitalize on their Super Bowl window, and they may have done just that by hiring Drew Petzing.
While Petzing has some great pieces to work with, the Lions should prioritize setting him up for success by acquiring more players in free agency. Since they lack a quality backup behind tight end Sam LaPorta, the Lions should consider going all-in on free agent Darren Waller.
Signing Darren Waller Would Give the Lions Insurance at TE
After a brief year away from football in 2024, Waller felt like he still had some quality football in him. He was right. Although a pectoral and groin injury hampered him, Waller proved to be an impactful player in the Dolphins’ pass-happy offense. Across nine games, he logged 24 receptions for 283 yards and six touchdowns.
While he was unable to replicate the numbers he posted during his days with the Las Vegas Raiders, Waller showed he can be a productive piece for any team in need of his services. One of those teams that could use his talent is the Lions.
Even though they have multiple playmakers on offense, the Lions lack a serviceable tight end behind Sam LaPorta. This weakness was exposed when LaPorta missed the final eight games due to a back injury.
Without him, the Lions’ tight end group combined for an egregious 18 receptions for 117 yards. While backup tight end Brock Wright also went down during this span, he hasn’t lived up to the three-year, $12 million contract that the Lions signed him to, recording just 27 receptions for 208 yards and four touchdowns across 28 games.
Outside of him, the Lions have Zach Horton and Thomas Gordon under contract, and neither player made any contributions last year. Considering the inexperience and lack of quality play from their backup tight ends, signing Waller should be a no-brainer decision for the Lions, as it shouldn’t be too costly to sign him.
According to Spotrac, Waller is projected to land a one-year deal, $3.2 million contract. While the Lions are currently projected to have just $9.1 million in cap space, they would have enough to make the signing work.
The pairing would be beneficial for both sides. For Waller, he would be joining a stacked offense and wouldn’t be the top target for opposing defenses, which could create favorable matchups. Not only that, but Waller has also played in just one playoff game in his nine-year career, and with the Lions having a playoff-caliber roster, he should be intrigued by joining a contending team.
As for the Lions, LaPorta’s timetable for return remains unclear, and given the seriousness of his injury, they should prioritize alleviating the pressure off him. Pairing him with Waller would give Petzing two reliable red-zone targets to design plays for, while easing LaPorta’s workload.
Regardless of how they address the need, the Lions must provide Petzing with insurance at tight end.