The Detroit Lions, like most teams, aren't done with NFL free agency just yet. The cycle has slowed down a good amount, but just because a lot of teams don't have ample financial resources doesn't mean they're done.
The Lions could be one of those teams who are waiting to make some sneaky, yet impactful moves in the coming weeks. And, one of those moves, suggested by NFL expert and columnist Nick Shook, might be to go out and sign veteran pass rusher Joey Bosa.
Bosa, the former third overall pick by the San Diego Chargers back in 2016, is not the guy he used to be. But, he might have the little extra bit of juice this Lions defense needs in order to help Aidan Hutchinson and company hit another level.
The Lions signed D.J. Wonnum who currently checks in as the second starter, yet that's anything but set in stone. They need more help.
Joey Bosa has some concerns, but the Detroit Lions should make the move anyway
Many fans' gut reactions, when bringing up Bosa's name, would be to go straight to the topic of injury concerns. And, that's a legitimate worry. Bosa has a history of nagging injuries and the label "injury prone" fits him, unfortunately.
But, last year with the Buffalo Bills, Bosa was able to suit up in 15 of 17 games. He finished with 5.0 sacks and 24 quarterback pressures, which happened to be the most pressures he had generated in a season since 2021.
Opposite of a guy like Hutchinson, Bosa could have similar -- if not more -- success than he did last year. And, there's another factor to his game that would be welcomed on this Detroit defense.
In 2025, Bosa led the NFL with five forced fumbles.
READ MORE: Scout touts 'underrated' Lions signing as one of NFL's best from free agency
Last season, the Lions finished in the bottom half of the league having forced 19 turnovers on defense. Simply having Bosa on the opposite side of Hutchinson gives Detroit's defense a better likelihood of turning the ball over, almost by default.
Bosa will turn 31 years old in July, so he isn't as old as he might seem. The tiresome injury conversation might make it feel like he's older than he is, but if Bosa is able to stay healthy and those major issues are in the rear view, he has the chance to be a very impactful player on a few specific teams.
The Lions are one of those teams, again, thanks to Hutchinson dominating the opposing offensive line's attention.
Gambling on Bosa is, well, a gamble in and of itself. However, if he's able to play all (of the majority) of the 2026 season, he could be a real difference maker that helps take the Lions' defense to the next level.