Lions Prioritize Offensive Line in Free Agency

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 11:11 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Michigan, UNITED STATES

Lions Eye Offensive Line Reinforcements: A Deep Dive into Detroit's Free Agency Strategy

The Detroit Lions are entering a crucial offseason, poised to build on a promising 2025 season that, while falling short of a Super Bowl berth, demonstrated significant progress. As free agency looms, the team's priorities are becoming increasingly clear: bolstering the offensive line, particularly at the tackle positions. Recent reports, specifically from Dave Cobb of the Detroit Free Press, indicate a focused strategy on acquiring versatile tackle talent, signaling potential changes and contingency plans for the existing roster.

Detroit's emphasis on offensive line play isn't a surprise to anyone who followed the team last season. While the running game generally found success, pass protection proved to be a persistent vulnerability. The Lions allowed a concerning number of sacks and pressures, hindering quarterback Jared Goff's ability to consistently deliver accurate passes and impacting the overall offensive rhythm. Addressing this weakness is paramount to maximizing Goff's potential and ensuring a more dynamic and efficient offense.

Complicating the situation is the uncertainty surrounding veteran left tackle Taylor Decker. Decker, a cornerstone of the Lions' line for several years, is entering free agency, and while the team may express a desire to retain him, financial constraints and the player's potential demands could price him out of Detroit. This reality further intensifies the need to proactively seek replacements or capable backups through free agency.

Two names have already emerged as potential targets: Andre Dillard of the Tennessee Titans and Stone Forsythe of the Atlanta Falcons. Both players bring different attributes and levels of experience to the table. Dillard, a former first-round pick (27th overall in 2019 by the Eagles), offers upside and a pedigree, but his career has been marked by inconsistency and a lack of sustained starting opportunities. The Lions might view him as a project, hoping to unlock his potential with improved coaching and a stable environment. However, his injury history will undoubtedly be a concern.

Forsythe, on the other hand, presents a more reliable, albeit potentially less flashy, option. He's logged significant playing time, starting 31 games over the past two seasons for the Falcons. This experience provides a level of stability and familiarity that could be valuable for the Lions. While he may not possess the same athletic ceiling as Dillard, his proven ability to consistently perform at the NFL level makes him an attractive candidate.

The Lions' stated preference for a versatile tackle capable of playing both left and right tackle is a key element of their strategy. This flexibility allows them to address multiple needs with a single signing, providing insurance against injuries and allowing for greater tactical flexibility during games. A player who can seamlessly transition between positions is a valuable asset, especially in a league where offensive line injuries are commonplace.

Beyond Dillard and Forsythe, the Lions are likely to explore other potential free agent tackles, as well as consider options in the upcoming NFL Draft. The free agency period is often a flurry of activity, with players changing teams and contracts being negotiated at a rapid pace. Detroit's front office, led by General Manager Brad Holmes, will need to navigate this landscape carefully, balancing the need for immediate improvements with the long-term financial health of the franchise.

Furthermore, the team's offensive line coaching staff, led by Hank Fraley, will play a crucial role in evaluating potential additions. Assessing a player's technique, athleticism, and ability to fit into the Lions' offensive scheme is essential. The coaching staff's input will be invaluable in determining which players are the best fit for the team's culture and system.

Ultimately, the Lions' success in free agency will hinge on their ability to identify and acquire tackles who can provide both immediate impact and long-term stability. Improving pass protection is not just about protecting Jared Goff; it's about enabling the entire offense to thrive and taking the next step towards becoming a consistent Super Bowl contender.