The Detroit Lions' defensive interior might not be seen as the biggest offseason need, but it's a spot that is practically begging for attention.
Down the stretch, the line struggled as much as any spot on the defense. They failed to achieve consistent pocket pressure in the postseason. Fortunately, they will have options to improve their defensive line from the inside out.
Pro Football Focus writer Zoltan Buday recently identified the top underrated defensive free agents for 2025. Tershawn Wharton was the choice on the interior thanks to his sneaky abilities at tackle.
"Wharton grew more important for Kansas City's defense over time, playing a career-high 780 snaps in his fifth season with the Chiefs this past year. And while he has not necessarily stood out as a run defender, he became a solid pass-rusher from the interior. Wharton's 71.9 PFF pass-rushing grade in 2024 ranked 21st among 95 qualifying interior defenders, while his 10.5% pass-rush win rate placed him 26th."
"Wharton saved the best for last, as he earned a career-high 90.1 PFF overall grade on the biggest stage, Super Bowl 59. That mark tied for 23rd among 1,590 single-game performances throughout the 2024 NFL season."
Wharton has flown under the radar in Kansas City, winning two Super Bowls while putting up 114 tackles, 13.5 sacks and four forced fumbles over five seasons.
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Lions should consider Tershawn Wharton as Alim McNeill insurance
Wharton's pass rush abilities from the inside make him a nice fit for the Lions. They haven't had trouble against the run, but a lack of pass rush pressure aside from McNeill has been an issue. McNeill's own uncertainty about his recovery makes finding some insurance practically mandatory.
"This is the first time I've ever had a season end in an injury and first time having surgery, so it was all new stuff to me. It's definitely tough, but you kind of have to put your mind frame in a different type of spot. I got to get back on the field as fast as I can. I'm not going to rush anything, but I'm just gonna push myself for sure."
The hope is McNeill will be ready for the start of next season, but with a lengthy injury recovery for the first time in his career nothing is certain about when he will return. Detroit has DJ Reader in the mix, but he doesn't provide much pass rush. Brodric Martin remains a wild card since he hasn't seen the field consistently in his young career.
Signing an underrated player like Wharton would offer fantastic insurance for the Lions at a time they might need it a lot.