Now that the Detroit Lions are officially in offseason mode, general manager Brad Holmes is exploring ways to upgrade the roster and push the franchise closer to its first-ever Super Bowl appearance.

One of Detroit’s biggest needs entering the 2026 NFL offseason is improving the pass rush, and the Lions have now been linked to veteran defensive end Joey Bosa, the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Lions Named Potential Landing Spot for Joey Bosa

According to CBS Sports writer Jared Dubin, the Lions are a team to watch as a possible destination for Bosa, who spent the 2025 season with the Buffalo Bills on a one-year, $12.6 million contract.

“The Lions always need pass rush help across from Aidan Hutchinson,” Dubin wrote. “They’re not going to have much in the way of cap space this offseason, so they’re going to have to shop in the bargain bin, and we’ve seen that Bosa can do decent work in a rotational role on a top team.”

Detroit’s limited salary cap flexibility could make Bosa an attractive low-risk signing if he is willing to accept a reduced contract.

Bills Expected to Move On From Bosa

SI.com’s Alex Brasky also suggested that Buffalo is unlikely to bring Bosa back for another season, opening the door for teams like Detroit to pursue him in free agency.

“Bosa’s five sacks were second on the team this season, while his quarterback pressure rate was third among Bills defensive linemen,” Brasky wrote. “But that’s not saying much, as the Bills struggled to get opposing quarterbacks on the ground all year. He didn’t record a single sack over the past five weeks of the regular season and playoffs and was also a liability against the run.”

Brasky added that Bosa’s age and declining production could limit his market value.

“The 10-year pro is set to enter his age-31 season and appears to be just about finished as a top-tier pass rusher,” he wrote. “If you can get him back on a bargain, it would be a consideration. But otherwise, one year was enough of Bosa in Buffalo.”

Joey Bosa’s 2025 Season Stats

Despite his late-season struggles, Bosa still produced respectable numbers:

29 total tackles

5 sacks

5 forced fumbles

While he may no longer be an elite edge rusher, Bosa could provide valuable depth and experience for a Lions defense led by Aidan Hutchinson.

Could the Lions Sign Joey Bosa?

If the Bills part ways with Bosa as expected, the Lions could emerge as a realistic free-agent suitor. Detroit’s need for pass rush help combined with Bosa’s likely reduced price tag could make this a logical short-term move for both sides.

A one-year, incentive-based contract could allow the Lions to strengthen their defensive front without sacrificing long-term financial flexibility.