Free agency primer: What the Lions have done so far, what to expect today
ALLEN PARK — The Detroit Lions have spent the last couple weeks nipping and tucking at their roster, bringing back some key role players while cutting loose former captain Tracy Walker.
Today, the action should heat up.
The Detroit Lions have plenty of decisions to make with free agency looming.
Monday marks the start of the league’s legal tampering period, which allows teams to contact players’ agents and begin the process of negotiating contracts. As a result, the Lions will lose their exclusivity in negotiations with their free agents.
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Here are predictions on each of the Lions’ 16 current free agents heading into Monday.
Tyson Alualu
The veteran defensive tackle provided much needed depth after Alim McNeill suffered a knee injury late in the regular season. Despite not making a significant impact, he was able to be a helpful piece on the defensive interior.
Next season would be Alualu’s 15th. With the Lions set to reload up front, it’s likely that should he elect to return in 2024, it will be with a different team. Prediction: Departs
Ceedy Duce
After not landing a multi-year deal last offseason, Duce came to Detroit looking to prove his abilities. However, an injury cut his campaign short. In his absence, the Lions were able to find solid options at the safety position in Ifeatu Melifonwu and nickel cornerback Brian Branch.
Duce is a talented player, but the Lions have plenty to be confident in their young players. As a result, a multi-year deal will likely come from elsewhere. Prediction: Departs
Anthony Firkser
Firkser served as tight end insurance throughout the year, spending most of the campaign on the practice squad. He was called upon to contribute late in the year, but didn’t record a regular season catch. The Lions brought back Shane Zylstra, which likely spells the end of Firkser’s tenure with the team. Prediction: Departs
Graham Glasgow
Glasgow revitalized his career with the Lions, after struggling late in his stint with the Denver Broncos. He began the year as a backup, but quickly ascended into a starting role.
The veteran played multiple roles throughout the season, starting games at both guard spots as well as center. He’s well-liked in the locker room, and has voiced a desire to remain with the organization. A return would be mutually beneficial. Prediction: Stays
Charles Harris
Harris had a breakout year in 2021, which earned him a new deal with the organization. However, injuries curtailed his production in 2022, and he was unable to rebound in 2023.
After being demoted to a healthy scratch at points this year and finishing the year with just 1.5 sacks, the Lions will likely move on from the veteran. Prediction: Departs
