Former Lions Star Could Shockingly Return to Detroit After Super Bowl LX
The Detroit Lions may revisit a familiar name at safety once Super Bowl LX concludes. Former Lions defensive back Quandre Diggs could be a potential offseason target as Detroit looks to rebuild depth in its secondary ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Diggs, who was traded by Detroit after the 2018 season, split the 2025 campaign between the Tennessee Titans and Seattle Seahawks. Now competing for his first Super Bowl ring, Diggs recently revealed he nearly reunited with the Lions last November.
“I had a chance this year,” Diggs told Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “It just didn’t work out that way.”
Instead, Diggs returned to Seattle, where he spent five and a half seasons after his trade from Detroit. He cited an opportunity with the Seahawks that he “couldn’t pass up.” Still, that decision doesn’t appear to close the door on a potential return to the Motor City this offseason.
Lions May Target Quandre Diggs for Safety Depth
Detroit explored adding Diggs last season after Kerby Joseph suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for the final 11 games. Although Diggs never played under the current Lions coaching staff, he would have provided valuable veteran depth.
After Diggs declined, the Lions signed Jammie Robinson, but further injuries complicated matters. Brian Branch tore his Achilles in Week 14 against the Dallas Cowboys, and Detroit ultimately missed the playoffs in part due to the depleted secondary.
General manager Brad Holmes said earlier this offseason that safety may or may not be a priority depending on the recovery of Branch and Joseph.
However, early signs suggest help will be needed. Branch is expected to miss part of the 2026 season due to the Achilles injury, which often impacts speed and explosiveness. Joseph is also dealing with a degenerative knee condition that could limit him long-term.
With Daniel Thomas, Avonte Maddox, and Jalen Mills entering free agency, Detroit will likely explore veteran options, making Diggs a logical candidate.
Diggs Could Provide Veteran Insurance for Lions
At 33 years old, Diggs is no longer the Pro Bowl-caliber player he once was. Over two seasons with the Titans, he recorded:
72 total tackles
0 tackles for loss
1 pass defended
17 games played
From 2020 to 2022, Diggs was a three-time Pro Bowler with the Seahawks, showing he still has experience and leadership to offer.
The Lions wouldn’t be expecting Diggs to be a starter. Instead, he could serve as a reliable backup and mentor while Branch and Joseph complete their rehabilitation.
Even a low-risk move—such as inviting Diggs to training camp—could benefit a Lions team aiming to bounce back in 2026. A reunion wouldn’t be about recapturing past glory but about adding depth and stability to a thin position group.
Lions–Diggs Reunion Could Make Sense in 2026
If Detroit needs a veteran safety after Super Bowl LX, Quandre Diggs could be a realistic and affordable option. With injury concerns looming and free agency thinning the depth chart, the Lions may once again turn to a familiar face as they continue their push to remain NFC contenders.
