With its 2026 NFL Draft class and a series of undrafted free agents inked, the Detroit Lions’ roster construction for 2026 is just about finished.
But, for the right price and at the right position of need, would the Lions think about adding another piece or two? Right now, the Lions still have $13.6 million in effective cap space, per Over The Cap.
ESPN has an idea for which direction the Lions should turn. In its look at the best fits for remaining NFL free agents, ESPN links the Lions to EDGE Jadeveon Clowney.
The Lions addressed its pass rush in the second round, selecting Michigan EDGE Derrick Moore. But, an experienced hand and more depth would be a welcome sight opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Here’s what ESPN’s Matt Bowen wrote about the potential move:
Detroit drafted edge rusher Derrick Moore in the second round to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson on pass-rushing downs, but Clowney would provide more depth up front. He had 8.5 sacks and 32 pressures last season in 13 games for the Cowboys, winning late in the down to get to the quarterback. Clowney would provide rotational value for coordinator Kelvin Sheppard’s unit. – Matt Bowen, ESPN
Clowney was the No. 1 overall pick out of South Carolina in the 2014 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-5, 266-pound EDGE is entering his age 33 season, but Clowney enters off a 2025 campaign where he totaled 41 tackles, 8.5 sacks and one forced fumble with the Cowboys.
Clowney’s calculated market value is $5.7 million, per Spotrac. The Gamecock alum signed a 1-year, $3.45 million contract with the Cowboys after Week 2 of last season.
AJ Epenesa, Von Miller and Cameron Jordan are other edge rushers still on the market. While ESPN links that trio to the Packers, the Bears and Saints, respectively, all three could be good options as well.
Epenesa, Miller and Jordan’s calculated market values are $6.4 million, $5.8 million and $6.8 million, per Spotrac, respectively.
Miller had nine sacks last season, while Jordan registered 10.5.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: ESPN thinks former No. 1 overall pick is perfect fit with Detroit Lions
Reporting by Josh Helmer, Lions Wire / Lions Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
