A reunion with a familiar last name could make plenty of sense for the Detroit Lions as they prepare for another pivotal offseason.

With free agency approaching, Detroit’s front office is mapping out its options. The organization still views itself as firmly in the Super Bowl conversation, but difficult choices lie ahead. Roster gaps exist on both sides of the ball, meaning the team must carefully balance any major investment rather than overspend at one position.

Defensively, adding a premier edge rusher has been widely discussed as a potential solution to one of the team’s biggest weaknesses. However, committing significant money to a headline acquisition could limit flexibility elsewhere on the roster — something the Lions may prefer to avoid.

That brings attention to a younger, intriguing alternative: Jonah Elliss of the Denver Broncos. Though he has flashed promise, his path to a starting role in Denver appears crowded behind established veterans. According to Aaron Schatz of ESPN, Elliss’ limited role is more about depth-chart competition than lack of development. He posted a 14.1% pass rush win rate and a 12.2% pressure rate last season — both solid marks for an edge defender — yet logged just 38% of defensive snaps in games he played.

The surname Elliss carries weight in Detroit. Jonah’s father, Luther Elliss, was a disruptive force for the Lions throughout the 1990s. He spent eight seasons anchoring Detroit’s defensive front before finishing his career in Denver in 2004, totaling 29 sacks over his NFL tenure.

Now, the younger Elliss is building his own résumé. Drafted in 2024, he has already accumulated 7.5 career sacks and demonstrated early signs of high-level pass-rushing potential. His production metrics suggest there is room for growth, and his playing style hints at the same intensity and grit that defined his father’s career.

If Detroit were to pursue him, the move would go beyond sentimentality. The Lions have a genuine need for reinforcement off the edge, particularly if they opt against making a splashy, high-priced signing. General manager Brad Holmes has previously found success identifying ascending talents who outperform expectations, and Elliss could fit that mold.

There has been ongoing debate about whether Detroit must make a blockbuster addition to truly elevate its defense for deeper postseason success. Still, the franchise may prefer a strategic approach — targeting a rising contributor rather than committing massive resources to one star.

Should Denver determine that Elliss would benefit from a new opportunity, Detroit would present a logical landing spot. Familiarity with the organization, coupled with a clear positional need, could make a return of the Elliss name to Motown more than just a nostalgic storyline — it could be a smart football decision.