Now that the NFL Draft has wrapped up, the Detroit Lions—along with the rest of the league—will begin finalizing their rosters as they prepare for summer training camp.

 Detroit should turn its attention to the second wave of free agency to complete the roster. Adding a few strategic veterans could help the team assemble the final pieces needed to compete not only for the NFC North crown but also to make a legitimate push toward the Super Bowl.

 Rather than reviewing the Lions’ entire draft class, it’s worth noting that general manager Brad Holmes addressed several key needs. Detroit used a premium selection on offensive tackle Blake Miller, who is expected to effectively replace Taylor Decker. With Miller projected to play on the right side, star lineman Penei Sewell can move back to his natural position at left tackle.

 In the second round, Detroit made another aggressive move by trading up to draft Michigan edge rusher Derrick Moore. The Lions hope Moore can eventually develop into the long-term running mate for star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson along the defensive front.

 Detroit stayed connected to Michigan in the third round by selecting linebacker Jimmy Rolder. He joins a linebacker unit that was expected to lose depth and production behind Jack Campbell after veteran Alex Anzalone departed in free agency.

 With the draft complete, the Lions could still benefit from signing several experienced players in the second stage of free agency to strengthen their roster.

Cameron Jordan – Edge Defender

 Veteran pass rusher Cameron Jordan will turn 37 this summer, placing him firmly in the later stage of his career. However, his production suggests he can still contribute. The longtime New Orleans Saints standout recently recorded another double-digit sack season with 10.5 sacks. Over his 15 years in New Orleans, Jordan has accumulated 763 tackles and 132 sacks while forcing 17 fumbles and recovering 12.

 While Pro Football Focus grades are not the sole measure of a player’s value, they offer insight into weekly performance. Jordan posted a 76.0 overall grade, ranking 24th among 115 qualifying edge defenders. He also generated 36 quarterback pressures, placing 53rd.

 Although he may not dominate with speed the way younger rushers do, Jordan remains a well-rounded defensive end. He excels at setting the edge against the run and collapsing the pocket with strength. That type of balanced skill set fits what Detroit typically seeks in a complementary defender opposite Hutchinson.

 Jordan could serve as a rotational contributor alongside rookie Moore while also providing valuable mentorship. His familiarity with Lions head coach Dan Campbell—dating back to their time together with the Saints under Sean Payton—could make the transition smoother.

Calais Campbell – Defensive Tackle

 Many of the same arguments that apply to Jordan could also apply to veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell. Even as he approaches 40, Campbell has continued to produce at a respectable level.

 He could provide Detroit with situational help on the interior defensive line alongside Alim McNeill. Detroit’s defense struggled at times to generate pressure and also had difficulty stopping the run, so a seasoned interior defender could help stabilize the unit.

 In 2025, Campbell earned a 72.2 overall defensive grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 26th among 134 interior linemen. His pass-rush grade of 65.1 placed him 49th, while his run-defense grade of 69.2 ranked 16th at the position. Playing for the Arizona Cardinals last season, Campbell recorded 35 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and nine quarterback hits.

 The year before was even more impressive. In 2024 he received an 82.3 overall grade—seventh among defensive tackles—and an elite 85.9 run-defense mark, the best at his position.

 Campbell’s experience could help bring consistency to Detroit’s defensive front while aiding the development of younger players like Tyleik Williams and Levi Onwuzurike.

Joel Bitonio – Offensive Guard

 A potential signing that would significantly strengthen Detroit’s offensive line is veteran guard Joel Bitonio. The longtime Cleveland Browns standout is currently an unrestricted free agent while also considering retirement.

 Bitonio has been one of the league’s most reliable guards, earning two first-team All-Pro honors and seven Pro Bowl selections.

 During the 2025 season, he received a 70.7 overall PFF grade, ranking 23rd among 81 qualifying guards while playing 1,081 offensive snaps. His 75.7 pass-blocking grade ranked eighth at the position, while his 64.4 run-blocking grade placed 38th.

 Bitonio surrendered 31 total pressures, including two sacks and one quarterback hit, and committed just a single penalty all season.

 Detroit’s offensive line still looks strong overall, but there are lingering questions at left guard. Christian Mahogany currently appears to be the favorite for the job, though players such as Matt Frazier and Ben Bartch could also compete for the role.

 Bringing in Bitonio—even for one season—could solidify the position and further strengthen what is already one of Detroit’s biggest team strengths.

Deebo Samuel – Wide Receiver

 At first glance, signing a wide receiver may seem unnecessary. Detroit already features a strong duo in Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. However, additional playmakers are always valuable in a modern offense.

 Veteran receiver Deebo Samuel has endured heavy usage throughout his career, but he could still provide short-term production for the Lions.

 Detroit could use another reliable option behind St. Brown and Williams, particularly someone capable of easing the workload on Isaac TeSlaa. Samuel’s versatility—especially his ability to handle jet sweeps, quick passes, and occasional rushing attempts—would give the offense additional flexibility.

 While Samuel is not primarily a deep threat, he remains effective in the intermediate passing game. In 2025 he recorded 72 receptions for 727 yards and five touchdowns while playing for the Washington Commanders. He also added 75 rushing yards and a touchdown on 17 carries.

 Samuel contributed on special teams as well, returning 15 kickoffs for 452 yards with a long return of 69 yards.

Trevon Diggs – Cornerback

 Cornerback is another area where Detroit could consider adding depth. Veteran defensive back Trevon Diggs, who is 28 years old, might represent a low-risk option worth exploring.

 The Lions’ cornerback group is currently led by D. J. Reed, whose first season in Detroit was inconsistent. Young corner Terrion Arnold is still developing, while newcomer Roger McCreary was recently added from the Los Angeles Rams.

 Behind them are Ennis Rakestraw Jr.—who has struggled with injuries since entering the league—and rookie Keith Abney II, along with special teams contributor Khalil Dorsey.

 In today’s NFL, teams rarely have enough capable cornerbacks. Adding Diggs on a modest deal could give Detroit valuable depth. During the 2025 season with the Green Bay Packers, Diggs posted a 59.8 overall PFF grade, ranking 68th among 114 qualified cornerbacks.

 His coverage grade of 65.9 ranked 45th, while his run-defense mark of 44.5 ranked 99th. Opposing quarterbacks posted a 157.2 passer rating when targeting him in coverage. He allowed 16 completions and recorded 25 solo tackles.

 Those numbers were not particularly encouraging, but at 28 years old, it is possible Diggs still has productive football left in him after dealing with injuries in recent seasons. If the price is right, Detroit might consider the gamble for added depth in the secondary.