There are a lot of talented players participating in Super Bowl LVI. And a few should be on the Detroit Lions radar when they become free agents.
Much like other teams struggling to get their footing, the Detroit Lions should take notes as to how the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs built their rosters, as the depth and bevvy of above-average players helped them reach the pinnacle of professional football.
With that in mind, the Lions would be wise to keep an eye on these three players when they hit the free agency market this offseason, as adding players with championship pedigree is never a bad thing.
Chris Jones, Defensive End, Kansas City Chiefs
Most Lions fans were annoyed by the regression of the defense this past season, as a defensive line that was unable to put pressuring on opposing passers allowed gunslingers to pick apart a secondary unit that lacked depth and consistency.
Adding one of the best pass rushers in football could solve both those problems, as Chris Jones has been such a factor in these playoffs, his health has often swung entire gambling lines against the spread.
As amazing as Chase Young would look in the Honolulu Blue, he is not a guarantee and a little more than a pipe dream for Detroit. Acquiring Jones via free agency would make fans forget about missing out on the Ohio State product.
Jones was selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2019, amassing 36 tackles, 20 quarterback hits, 9.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. He was the best player on a Kansas City bend-don’t-break defense that finished near the top of the league by season’s end.
While the Chiefs are likely to back up the Brinks truck for Jones this off-season, it wouldn’t hurt to submit an offer to the Pro Bowler. Anytime you get one of the best pass rushers in football in his prime, you might as well try to make a move.