Every NFL offseason forces teams to make uncomfortable financial decisions, and trimming the roster for salary cap relief is often part of the process.

The Detroit Lions may find themselves facing that reality. Currently projected to be over the salary cap, Detroit could need to clear space before free agency begins. General manager Brad Holmes may have to weigh the value of certain veterans against the flexibility created by releasing them. Creating cap room would allow the team to extend key players or pursue outside help.

Here are four players who could become cap-related departures this offseason.

RB David Montgomery

Montgomery’s situation in Detroit feels uncertain. Reports indicated he wasn’t thrilled with how his role evolved late in the season, as his carries and snap count declined down the stretch.

At his best, Montgomery forms one of the league’s most effective backfield tandems alongside Jahmyr Gibbs. Still, his usage and production appeared less consistent than in previous seasons. Holmes has also made comments suggesting that nothing is guaranteed regarding Montgomery’s future.

Financially, the Lions would gain modest relief with a pre-June 1 release, though it would come with notable dead money. A post-June 1 designation would offer greater cap savings while reducing the dead cap hit significantly, making that route more appealing if the team chooses to move on.

C Graham Glasgow

Center remains a position Detroit must evaluate closely. Glasgow handled the role for most of the 2025 season but struggled at times and battled injuries late in the year. There’s also speculation he could consider retirement.

Even if he decides to continue playing, the Lions may feel comfortable turning to younger options. Over the past two drafts, Detroit has added interior linemen such as Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge and Miles Frazier. Ratledge, in particular, logged reps at center during training camp and could be viewed as a long-term solution.

Releasing Glasgow before June 1 would generate moderate savings while carrying a higher dead cap charge. A post-June 1 move would increase cap relief and lessen the financial penalty.

OT Taylor Decker

Parting ways with Decker would be surprising given his leadership and long tenure with the organization. He has been a foundational piece of the offensive line for nearly a decade. However, the salary cap implications make the conversation at least worth having.

Injuries, particularly to his shoulder, limited both his availability and performance in 2025. When he did play, he wasn’t quite at his usual level. From a financial standpoint, releasing him would open substantial cap space, especially if designated after June 1, though it would still result in some dead money.

While unlikely, such a move would provide significant flexibility if the Lions decide to prioritize financial reset over continuity.

TE Brock Wright

Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing has historically favored using multiple tight ends, which works in Wright’s favor. He has served as a dependable No. 2 tight end behind Sam LaPorta, contributing primarily as a blocker while offering occasional value in the passing game.

Still, if Detroit is searching for cap savings, Wright could be considered. A post-June 1 release would free up several million dollars while carrying a relatively small dead cap hit.

Though the coaching staff values Wright’s role, the team could opt to invest in younger depth at the position if financial constraints demand it.

Ultimately, Detroit’s cap situation may force difficult conversations. Whether Holmes prioritizes continuity or financial flexibility will shape how aggressive the Lions are in reshaping their roster ahead of the 2026 season.