One of the simplest decisions for NFL teams during the offseason involves their exclusive-rights free agents, or ERFAs. In short, ERFAs are players with expiring contracts who have less than three accrued NFL seasons (a player only accrues a season if they spend six or more games on the active roster or an injury list).

Deciding whether to tender an ERFA is straightforward, since teams can offer them a one-year contract at the league minimum salary. If the team extends that offer, the player only has two choices: sign the tender or sit out the entire season.

More often than not, teams tender these players and they sign. Occasionally, teams decide to move on, but in 2025, the Detroit Lions should have no issue keeping all four of their ERFAs. Here’s a look at why each one is worth retaining.

OT Connor Galvin

Galvin signed with Detroit as an undrafted rookie in 2023 and spent his first year on the practice squad. He earned one gameday elevation and played seven special teams snaps. Unfortunately, a torn MCL in the first preseason game of 2024 sidelined him for the entire season.

Though Galvin likely won’t push for a starting or primary backup role at tackle, Detroit’s decision to keep him around for two years shows they see potential in him as future depth.

G Michael Niese

After spending 2023’s offseason with the Buccaneers, Niese landed on Detroit’s practice squad for the remainder of the year and was re-signed in 2024. He was active for all 17 games this past season, playing on special teams. Versatile enough to back up both guard and center, Niese’s value as interior depth makes this decision a no-brainer.

EDGE Mitchell Agude

Similar to Niese, Agude joined Detroit’s practice squad early in 2023 and returned in 2024. He made an impression during the preseason, leading the team with 12 tackles and 2 tackles for loss.

However, even as Detroit dealt with injuries at EDGE and SAM, Agude saw limited action, appearing in just four late-season games. Still, with Agude turning 26 next week and flashing intriguing traits, it’s worth keeping him at the league minimum.

LB Trevor Nowaske

Nowaske holds a strong reputation within the Lions organization, making him a bargain to retain. Detroit made the difficult decision to cut him in 2023, leading to a brief stint with the Cardinals, but they reclaimed him in August 2024. Nowaske appeared in 14 games this past season.

A four-phase special teamer with some upside at SAM (recording an interception and two sacks last year), tendering Nowaske should be Detroit’s easiest roster choice this offseason.