We’re only on Day 2 of the Detroit Lions’ offseason, so why not dream big right away?
As coach Dan Campbell has said multiple times in the last couple weeks, there is some change that is needed for this franchise. They may not be that far away from contention, but 2025 was an undeniable step back beyond the poor luck of injuries and inability to close out some one-score games.
Campbell has been vague about what needs to change, but part of that is undoubtedly the roster. He even said on Monday that they need more internal competition in 2026.
“Let’s get that hunger back and we’re going to bring in some guys to compete,” Campbell said. “That’s the thing. We need competition in a lot of areas because that brings out the best in players, whether it’s with some of the guys that were here or the guys that we bring in. That’s how you elevate the roster.”
As of right now, we have no real good indication which players will actually be available in free agency in March. But we do know which players are currently on expiring contract (good free agent list available here). So let’s throw caution to the wind, ignore the fact that many of the players on this list will re-sign with their own teams and never see the light of free agency, and go window shopping. Today’s Question of the Day is:
Who is the dream free agent signing for the 2026 Detroit Lions?
My answer: Well, I may as well throw my hat into the loud mob that wants Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum to Detroit. At just 25 years old, the three-time Pro Bowl center would be a long-term solution to one of Detroit’s biggest problems right now. Even if the Lions were to retain Graham Glasgow—who will cost over $8.4 million in cap space next season—the veteran offensive lineman is not likely to be here for the long-term. Linderbaum would give the Lions both youth and experience at one of the most important positions in the Lions offense. And given he’s posted run blocking grades of 78.6 or higher in all four of his NFL seasons, he could be the key to bringing back the running game to Detroit.
Now the tough reality: Linderbaum “absolutely” wants to be back, and it’s hard to imagine the Ravens letting him walk, even with their relatively tight cap situation.
So who else is out there? Bills center Connor McGovern is another popular name out there. While he doesn’t bring the youth of Linderbaum (he’s 29) or Pro Bowl level play, he may be closer to Detroit’s price range, and he’d still bring plenty of experience and above-average play to the position.
And if we’re dreaming at a different position, I still maintain that defensive end Trey Hendrickson would be the perfect complement to Aidan Hutchinson on the defensive line. Do I think the Lions will be willing to spend enough to get him? Absolutely not, but I’m calling this dream scenarios for a reason.
Who are some other free agents you’d love to come to Detroit? Scroll down to the comment section and share your answers.
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