The Detroit Lions haven’t made a ton of splashes in free agency, despite having an abundance of cap space. Their biggest move in free agency was signing veteran cornerback D.J. Reed to a three-year, $48 million contract to replace Carlton Davis III, who signed with the New England Patriots on a three-year deal.
After signing Reed, Detroit emphasized re-signing many of their players, especially on defense, to one-year deals. Even though Lions fans aren’t mad at the team prioritizing depth, which was a huge problem last season, they would’ve liked to see the team add another pass rusher to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
As things currently stand, Marcus Davenport, who was re-signed to a one-year deal, is slated to start at defensive end.
Davenport only played in two games before missing the rest of the season due to a triceps injury. He also sustained a groin injury early in the season. That idea doesn’t excite Lions fans. They would rather see Detroit re-sign Za’Darius Smith.
However, until Smith’s agent figures out a potential plan for his client, Detroit must consider other pass-rushing options for 2025. One option the Lions should explore is taking a flyer on veteran pass rusher Von Miller.
The 36-year-old Miller just wrapped up his 13th season in the NFL after spending the last three years with the Buffalo Bills.
Last season, the veteran edge rusher had 17 combined tackles, eight quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, and six sacks in 13 games. Miller missed four games due to suspension, but was still effective when he returned to the field.
According to Pro Football Focus, the eight-time Pro Bowler had an 83.0 pass rush grade (11th among 211 EDGEs) and a 62.3 run defense grade (90th). Despite his age, it's clear that Miller still has something left in the tank and would be a perfect addition to Kelvin Sheppard’s defense.
Before free agency began, the Bills released the veteran pass rusher after the two sides could not agree on a pay cut. Miller was scheduled to make over $17 million this upcoming season.
The #Bills are releasing pass-rusher Von Miller, per me and @TomPelissero.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2025
Miller is set to turn 36 years old before the 2025 season, and Buffalo makes the move now. Both sides, however, are open to a return. pic.twitter.com/1i8jBBvDnL
Despite getting cut by the Bills, the door is reportedly open for a reunion, which could throw a wrench into any team considering Miller.
Nonetheless, if the Lions were to pursue Miller, they would need another pass rusher because of his age.
Detroit would be gambling on the veteran’s age and whether he could still produce at a level we’ve seen over the last two years with the Bills. It’s an interesting idea with the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon.