The Detroit Lions have some big decisions coming down the pipe this offseason, and arguably the biggest revolves around what to do with their defense.
In 2025, the Lions fell apart largely because their defense sustained a multitude of injuries. Their backfield struggled with health, and their depth was challenged in a way that made it difficult to maintain the level of play necessary to make the playoffs.
One of the more consistent players the Lions did have was defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad. Next to Aidan Hutchinson, he had a career season, putting up 11 sacks. Unfortunately, Muhammad is a free agent, and there is a likelihood he moves on.
ESPN's Eric Woodyard revealed the most important free agency decision Detroit has that will shape their offseason. As he said, it's likely Muhammad will move on from the Lions, because he is probably going to want to max out on a new contract at his age.
"Muhammad is coming off a career-best season after making the most of a big opportunity in Detroit. The former sixth-round draft pick exceeded his one-year, $1.42 million contract with a career-high 11 sacks, 25 tackles and 53 pressures this season. However, at 30 years old -- and set to turn 31 this offseason -- the veteran defensive end will likely command a multiyear deal that could be out of Detroit's range. He could walk in free agency, forcing the Lions to find another edge rusher to pair with Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson either in the draft or via free agency."
The choice with Muhammad is likely to set off a ripple effect with the Lions. If Detroit decides to stay with the pass rusher, it's likely they don't make other big defensive moves considering the money it will take to sign him. If he doesn't come back, the Lions would have more flexibility to distribute money evenly.
Lions will have a tough decision with regards to Muhammad's future
It's difficult to understate how important Muhammad was to the Lions in 2025, given the franchise has tried and failed to find a capable running mate for Hutchinson recently. Even with that in mind, it's hard to see Muhammad coming back.
Muhammad himself is thankful for what the Lions have offered the last few years, and knows he has been able to get his career on the right track thanks to the opportunity he has enjoyed in the Motor City to develop his talents.
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"(It was) real opportunity. Every scheme, every defense is different. Every team is different. Every season is different. As you get older in this league, the smarter you get. The more savvy you get. The more you understand the game. Ultimately, if you keep working, you elevate in all those different areas as a player. That's what happened to me. Constantly putting the work in, constantly finding ways to win and then just learning more about the game. Also being a part of a great organization and having great coaches helps as well and having great teammates."
While Muhammad is a success story for Holmes and the Lions and a good locker room presence, the fact is, they need to look in another direction this offseason for a defensive end. If the franchise wants to commit money at the position, they need an established force like Trey Hendrickson. They could also go younger with a high draft selection to build around, or sign a bargain free agent to chip in.
Regardless, Muhammad is likely to represent the top decision the team will have in the offseason. What they do with him is likely to determine what happens everywhere else.