The Detroit Lions’ first day of free agency will likely be defined more by the team’s losses than its wins. Detroit addressed its offensive line by agreeing to terms with former Panthers center Cade Mays and reserve tackle Larry Borom. These two additions certainly address the team’s most pressing needs, but a few additional needs arose after Detroit failed to retain a few.
Backup quarterback Kyle Allen is headed to Buffalo. Reserve tackle Roy Lopez returns to the Cardinals. Alex Anzalone is closer to his Florida family now that he has agreed to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And Amik Robertson brings his mettle to the NFC East with the Washington Commanders. Detroit also officially cut Taylor Decker on Monday.
Advertisement
I’m not here to debate whether or not the Lions should have drafted these players. While I’m sure Detroit would have welcomed them all back to the team, each of them got significant raises, and we know the Lions are working with significant budget limitations.
So today’s question of the day is:
Which Lions free agent loss was the biggest on opening day?
My response: If we include Taylor Decker, he is the answer. Free agency won’t have an upgrade option for the Lions there – and Larry Borom should really only be considered as starting depth, not a full-time option. Detroit will almost certainly need to draft an offensive tackle with a top-100 pick if they want to ensure their offensive tackle position doesn’t take a significant step back in 2026.
Advertisement
Other than that, I would choose Amik Robertson. With so many questions at the cornerback position (who will be the starting nickel? Is Terrion Arnold facing legal implications and even if he avoids any, is he ready for a third-year jump? Where is Detroit’s depth?) Robertson would have been a nice insurance policy for the outside and nickel positions. He’s courageous, a willing-to-run defender, and at times was capable of taking on some of the best boundary receivers in the league. His price tag – two years, $16 million – was not only a huge raise for the player, but it far exceeded my estimates, so I understand why Detroit let him go. But right now, their cornerback room has more questions than answers, and I can’t wait to see how general manager Brad Holmes plans to resolve this issue.
Who do you think was the Lions’ biggest loss on the first day of free agency? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
