Bleacher Report has suggested an underrated veteran free agent with ties to the front office as a smart solution to the Detroit Lions’ pass rush issues.

The Detroit Lions are working to determine their strategy for free agency, with a strong focus on upgrading a defense that struggled late in the season.

Boosting the pass rush is a major priority this offseason, and the Lions have several potential paths. They could attempt a blockbuster trade for Myles Garrett, sign a top-tier free agent like Josh Sweat, or target a lower-cost player for better value.

Historically, Detroit has favored a budget-conscious approach in free agency, making edge rusher Dante Fowler Jr. a compelling option. Fowler was recently highlighted as an overlooked veteran by Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox and identified as a strong fit for the Lions.

“Price is less of a concern for the Detroit Lions, who are projected to have $55 million in cap space. However, Fowler would be a valuable addition to a pass rush that includes Aidan Hutchinson and acquired Za’Darius Smith at last year’s trade deadline.”

“Given Fowler’s expected contract value, the Lions could sign him alongside another pass-rusher to strengthen their 30th-ranked pass defense in free agency.”

As Knox notes, securing Fowler at a lower price would be a major win, as it would allow Detroit to make additional defensive line upgrades. At 31, Fowler still has plenty left in the tank. Signing him alongside another veteran could provide the Lions with much-needed depth in the trenches.

Lions 2025 Free Agency: Dante Fowler has ties to Brad Holmes

While Detroit hasn’t consistently targeted former Los Angeles Rams, they have added a few players with prior ties to general manager Brad Holmes. Jared Goff is one example, as well as former wide receiver Josh Reynolds.

Fowler also has Rams history, spending two seasons there after being traded to Los Angeles in 2018. At the time, Holmes was the Rams’ director of college scouting and likely evaluated Fowler coming out of college.

After joining Los Angeles, Fowler played a key role in their Super Bowl run, posting a career-best season in 2019 with 58 tackles and 11.5 sacks after re-signing. Last season, he recorded the second-highest sack total of his career (10.5) with the Washington Commanders.

Detroit’s front office should have enough familiarity with Fowler to make an informed decision. Given his age and recent production, he could be a stealthy but valuable addition.