The Jaguars may try to snag the Super Bowl champion from the Lions during free agency, according to NFL rumours

For the 2024 NFL season, the Jacksonville Jaguars were among the league’s most lethargic clubs. The 2025 NFL Draft’s fifth overall pick went to Jacksonville after the Jaguars’ 4-13 season. The Jaguars have entered offseason mode and are currently seeking ways to strengthen their team. It is possible that they have already targeted a certain upcoming free agent.

In anticipation of the March NFL free agency, one ESPN article recently ranked the top fifty free agents. Jeremy Fowler of ESPN thinks the Jaguars should target a Super Bowl-winning Lions defender.

Fowler linked the Jaguars with Carlton Davis III, the Lions’ starting cornerback. At 28 years of age, the seasoned cornerback will enter the 2025 season. He was Tom Brady’s right hand when the Patriots won the Super Bowl with Tampa Bay during his prime playing years.

The reasons the Jaguars might be interested in Fowler were laid out by him.

The No. 2 corner in the class for some teams is Davis, according to Fowler’s writing. Be on the lookout for any action from Jacksonville in this regard. Although they aren’t expected to make a major splash in free agency, the Jaguars are looking to strengthen their secondary.

In 2024, Davis III had a strong season with the Lions, appearing in 13 games before going on injured reserve due to a broken jaw. He is an excellent man and zone cover player and isn’t afraid to make a tackle. Davis III is a game-changing cornerback with seven years of experience who has 68 passes defenced and eleven interceptions.

At last year’s draught, Jacksonville was thought to take a cornerback in the first round. Their signing of a cornerback during free agency would not come as a surprise.

If the Detroit Lions want to free up some money and roster spots this offseason, expect these three players to be cut in the coming months.

The Detroit Lions will miss Super Bowl 59, which takes place in less than two weeks. The Washington Commanders eliminated Dan Campbell’s team in the Division Round, leaving the Lions to watch the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs face off in New Orleans on February 9.

Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how the Lions handle the NFL offseason. According to Spotrac, general manager Brad Holmes has approximately $58 million in cap space available to address pressing needs. Additional funds and roster space can be freed up by terminating unappealing contracts.

With that in mind, here are the three Lions who must be released this offseason.

1. Za’Darius Smith (DE)

Za’Darius Smith was acquired from the Cleveland Browns prior to the NFL trade deadline, and his presence was expected to help elevate the Lions’ defence. Unfortunately, the former three-time Pro Bowler did not perform up to expectations.

Smith recorded four sacks in eight regular-season appearances with the Lions, but his seven solo tackles left much to be desired. It’s even more disappointing given that he had more than twice as many solo efforts (15) in his final game with the Browns in 2024.

Smith’s Detroit career reached a new low with the Division Round loss to the Commanders. In the elimination game, the 6-goot-4 was one of the Lions’ worst defenders, with Pro Football Focus rating him 24.8 for tackling, 27.9 for run stoppage, and 39.8 for overall defence.

Smith is set to have a $4 million cap hit next season, and while that is not a large sum, parting ways could benefit the Lions. After all, the Montgomery, AL native is due nearly $9 million in bonuses next month, which Detroit may be unwilling to pay given his playoff blunder.

With a buyout freeing up $4 million in cap space, don’t be surprised if Smith is released this offseason.

2. Jalen Reeves-Maybin (LB/ST)

Lions fans were excited to see what Jalen Reeves-Maybin could accomplish in 2024. The former Tennessee Volunteer was coming off an impressive 2023 season that culminated in his first Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections, raising expectations higher than ever.

Much to the dismay of the fans, the veteran defender struggled to replicate his previous success.

Reeves-Maybin’s neck injury limited him to only 10 regular season appearances. Unsurprisingly, the 29-year-old’s upside was limited by the nagging injury, as he finished Year 8 with only 10 solo tackles (17.6% of attempts) and a forced fumble, with no other notable stats.

Reeves-Maybin’s uneventful season led to some of his lowest PFF grades, including pass rushing (48.4), run stopping (46.4), and tackling (42.7).

Given that Reeves-Maybin turns 30 in a few days, there’s a chance he won’t recover. If the Lions agree, they can free up $2 million in cap space by releasing him before the 2025 season begins. That money can then be spent on a healthier and more consistent contributor to replace the ageing defender.

Lions fans will probably always have a soft spot for Reeves-Maybin, but it appears that his 2023 performance was an anomaly.

3. Kalif Raymond (WR/ST)

Last season, several Lions delivered standout performances, including wideout/ST Kalif Raymond. The former Holy Corss playmaker led the NFL with 413 return yards on 30 punts, including one touchdown return, earning All-Pro second-team honours for the second time in three seasons.

However, while Raymond was one of the league’s most dynamic special teams players, his pass-catching performance was nothing special. In his 12 appearances, the 30-year-old receiver caught 17 of 22 (77.3%) targets for 215 yards and two touchdowns. His 17.9 receiving yards per game were his lowest since moving to the Motor City in 2021.

As good as Raymond is as a returner, the Lions might consider replacing him with someone who can contribute more to the passing game. If GM Holmes wants to replace the former undrafted WR, Detroit can save approximately $3.2 million by cutting him before June 1, and those savings increase to $4.8 million after that date.

In other words, there is no rush to reach a final decision. Instead, it will most likely be up to Raymond to prove to the Lions this offseason that he is still worth the $6.3 million cap hit and 53-man roster spot.

Calvin Johnson discusses his favourite thing about watching the 2024 Lions

Calvin Johnson, a member of the Hall of Fame, discusses his complete support for the 2024 Detroit Lions on “The Rich Eisen Show”

The Detroit Lions have made significant progress since their 0–16 season, and Hall of Famer Calvin Johnson has found it particularly memorable to witness the team’s rise to prominence.

The team’s ability to adopt the head coach’s personality has impressed Johnson, who has had a front-row seat to the comeback under his former teammate Dan Campbell. Although there have been many factors contributing to the turnaround, Johnson believes one in particular is crucial.

Johnson was asked on “The Rich Eisen Show,” “What do you like best about this year’s team?” He clarified that this is how they have evolved into a living example of the principles their coach has advocated since the start.

“It all stems from the gritty beginnings of this team. That, in my opinion, is what our fans value most. The reason this place is so noisy is because there are a lot of guys here who are prepared to make sacrifices, to put their all on the line, and to go out there even when they’re not feeling their best. This team demonstrates that to us every single day. There are men in the community who are attempting to assist their fellow believers. You see players who are ready to play who come from other teams and are thrown into the lineup. Much of that simply comes down to the basics, the coaching, and the scenarios they place themselves in (during) practice. The grit that exists in Detroit is what it all comes down to. We’d like to work. You must want to work if you come here.

The Lions’ unselfish approach to the game makes them an easy team to support. Winning has resulted from each player on the roster adopting a consistent strategy. That, in Johnson’s opinion, has made the team enjoyable to watch.

Calvin Johnson enjoys watching Lions supporters get enamoured with football.

Casual fans have taken notice of the Lions’ style of play, but in Detroit, it has elevated the players to the status of virtual rock stars. Johnson has observed the shift in energy and its dissemination throughout the state and city, which he finds fascinating.

Given that this is a sports town, it’s fantastic. Here, we adore every sport. Football, but really intelligent fans? We require a football champion. People adore football, especially Detroit Lions football, and if we have a football champion, the city may burn down. The impact this team has had on the city over the past two years and a half is evident everywhere you look. Since our team is performing well, it’s evident that everyone in Detroit is happy and has something positive to say, but the excitement extends beyond the city limits. I go snowboarding. I visit the mountain towns, where lions can be seen in isolated areas. It’s stunning to view. This team, their positive energy, and their positive culture are where it all begins. It is ingrained in Detroit culture.

It’s safe to say that the Lions have never been as consistent or focused as they are right now. Everyone has enjoyed watching that, even a franchise icon like Johnson.

49ers Sign Safety Quindell Johnson to a Future/Reserve Agreement

An interesting move was just made by the 49ers.

Quindell Johnson, a safety from the Los Angeles Rams practice squad, was signed to a Reserve/Future contract by them. He does not currently count towards the 49ers’ 53-man roster, but on March 12 of the following year, he will.

Johnson was waived by the Rams shortly before the 2023 season began, despite having signed him as an undrafted free agent. After being claimed off waivers by the Chicago Bears, he played 106 special teams snaps, made nine rookie appearances, and intercepted one pass.

Johnson returned to the Rams and played on their practice squad this season after the Bears waived him following training camp. He currently has a 49ers futures contract.

The 49ers signed him, but why? They might be preparing for Talanoa Hufanga to leave in free agency. If the 49ers give Brock Purdy an extension that puts him among the highest-paid players in the NFL, he may not have the funds to bring him back on a multi-year contract. He is a former All-Pro who could attract a lot of interest on the open market.

Additionally, Johnson might be viewed by the 49ers as more of a special teams player than a safety. Remember that the 49ers need to strengthen their special teams this offseason because they were genuinely awful this season. Perhaps acquiring Johnson is the first of several actions meant to strengthen the 49ers’ greatest vulnerability.

Or perhaps he is merely a camp body.

Soon enough, we’ll know.

Former Lions quarterback calls on the Titans to make an incredible trade offer for $275,000,000

Dan Orlovsky exhorts the Titans to make a daring offer for a quarterback worth $275 million. Could the future of the AFC South be altered by this?

Dan Orlovsky, the former quarterback for the Detroit Lions, isn’t holding back with his most recent trade proposal. He is pleading with the Tennessee Titans to take a risk and offer a quarterback for $275 million in a blockbuster deal.

Large sums of money, significant stakes, and even more important questions: could this alter the Titans’ future and upend the AFC South?

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In the midst of Jags’ chaos, Dan Orlovsky sparks trade talk by suggesting that the Titans should target Trevor Lawrence.

It was a game-changer when Orlovsky threw a daring grenade into the NFL rumour mill. According to him, the Titans should contact the Jacksonville Jaguars and present them with an incredible offer for Trevor Lawrence.

“I would call the Jacksonville Jaguars and attempt to make a trade for Trevor Lawrence if I were the Titans.” And I would absolutely want to leave Jacksonville if I were Trevor Lawrence. Orlovsky stated, “I would want the Jacksonville Jaguars, a complete mess, to go away.”

For years, the Jags have been a circus act, and Orlovsky isn’t holding back. He refers to it as a “mess,” and to be honest, he has a point. The dysfunction of the team is essentially a Netflix drama waiting to happen. Orlovsky goes into great detail, claiming that Lawrence’s confidence and mental health have been destroyed by the Jaguars, leaving him to question what might have been.

The worst part, though, is that Orlovsky is providing the Jags with a reality check in addition to criticising their mess. “You need to restore Trevor Lawrence’s confidence, his mentality, and his way of thinking. However, since you have no idea what’s happening in Jacksonville, if I’m in Tennessee and I’m looking at everything, I’d call Jacksonville and say, “Okay.” It’s a mess, isn’t it?” he asked, sarcastically.

Would this trade ever take place? Most likely not. However, Orlovsky makes a compelling point: If you’re Lawrence, is it time to find some stability or do you really want to continue riding out the Jags’ storm? The Titans may be pursuing their future quarterback more than ever, but the Jaguars still have the ball in their court.

Lawrence’s Difficult Jacksonville Year

After taking a vicious hit from Azeez Al-Shaair in Week 13, Lawrence was placed on injured reserve prior to Week 14, which ended his 2024 season. With the Jacksonville Jaguars formally out of the running for the playoffs, it was a wise move to shut him down. He was also dealing with a non-throwing shoulder injury.

Lawrence had a terrible season, and at this point, it’s difficult to avoid having serious worries about him. Throughout the first four seasons, he hasn’t received a grade higher than a C+ in Pro Football Network’s Quarterback+ rankings, and in the last two years, he has fallen. With any luck, Lawrence’s waning career will be rekindled by a new head coach.

This season, Lawrence ranked 37th in terms of third-down conversion (30.3%) and struggled under pressure (33rd; -0.48). His grade is the second-worst of his career, surpassing only his rookie season, even though his other numbers aren’t that bad.

5 Detroit Lions free agents who could join Aaron Glenn at the New York Jets

Aaron Glenn could try to bring one or more of the Lions’ free agents with him to the Jets.

Aaron Glenn has been named the new head coach of the New York Jets, following weeks of speculation.

So the Detroit Lions are looking for a new defensive coordinator, which is exactly what head coach Dan Campbell expected. While some Lions assistant coaches may follow Glenn to New York, it’s possible that some players may also leave in free agency.

According to reports, Glenn is looking for an experienced defensive coordinator, and Steve Wilks has been mentioned frequently since Glenn took over as head coach of the Jets. But the Jets’ core defensive philosophy will undoubtedly bear Glenn’s imprint, which is to say (assuming he brings his philosophy from Detroit) that they will blitz frequently and play a lot of man coverage.

The Jets appear to have some defensive players who fit Glenn’s defensive style well. But he will undoubtedly want some players who are already familiar with his scheme/philosophy and who fit in well. And, when it comes down to it, some upcoming Lions free agents who developed a relationship with Glenn during his four years in Detroit may be willing to follow him to New York.

Here are five upcoming Lions free agents who may follow Glenn to New York.

5 Lions 2025 free agents who could join Aaron Glenn at the Jets

5. DE Marcus Davenport

The Lions took a one-year chance on Davenport last offseason, and while this year’s injury was rather random (an arm/elbow injury when Cardinals offensive tackle Paris Johnson chopped down on his arm in Week 3), the undeniable reality is he just can’t stay healthy (six games played over the last two seasons). He has also had only three sacks in his last 21 games, indicating that his potential as a former first-round pick is fading quickly.

So Davenport will be joining his fourth team in as many seasons in 2025. Where that will be is unclear, as his options are likely limited.

Glenn was a member of the New Orleans Saints’ coaching staff when he was draughted 14th overall in 2018. As far as low-risk options for bolstering their pass rush are concerned, the Jets could do worse than Davenport.

4. DL John Cominsky

Cominsky missed the entire 2024 season after tearing the MCL in his right knee during training camp. In his previous two seasons with the Lions, he had 66 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, six sacks, and 20 quarterback hits as a useful and versatile defensive lineman.

Cominsky found a home in Detroit after being claimed off waivers in 2022. This season’s injury makes it unlikely that he will be re-signed this offseason, but reuniting with Glenn in New York is definitely possible as the Jets retool their defence.

3. LB Derrick Barnes

Barnes’ 2024 season ended early (Week 3) due to a torn MCL and PCL in his right knee from a low block.His ACL remained intact, so there appeared to be a slim chance he could have returned before the season was over. But that was resolved before the regular season ended, and the Lions’ playoff run was short-lived.

Barnes has matured into an excellent all-around off-ball linebacker in Glenn’s defensive scheme over the last few seasons. Aside from any concerns about his injury recovery in March, the Lions have some good depth at linebacker and could let him go on the open market without fear of not being able to replace him.

Barnes was a college defensive end who made the full transition to linebacker once he reached the NFL. Glenn would value that versatility, as well as his familiarity with him. The Jets’ new defensive scheme (again, assuming Glenn’s success in Detroit) would necessitate more traditionally sized linebackers, rather than Jamien Sherwood, who thrived in the previous scheme this season but is a converted safety (216 pounds).

2. DL Levi Onwuzurike.

Onwuzurike was finally 100% healthy this season, and it showed. His traditional surface stats won’t blow your mind (28 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, one tackle for loss), but he did have 13 quarterback pressures (according to Pro Football Reference), and Pro Football Focus ranked him as a top-25 defensive tackle in the NFL.According to PFF, his pass-rush win rate of 12.5% ranked him among the top 15 defensive tackles.

“Onwuzurike has flashed whenever he’s been healthy during his first four seasons in the league, after being draughted one round ahead of recently extended interior defender Alim McNeill in 2021. The former second-round pick from Washington is the penetrating three-technique interior pass-rusher that every team covets, with a 12.5% pass-rush win rate in 2024 ranking among the top-15 at the position.”
-Professional Football Focus

One fully healthy season, no matter how good it was, will not allow Onwuzurike to completely break the bank in free agency (PFF projects a two-year, $16.5 million contract with $10 million guaranteed). However, he has most likely priced himself out of the Lions’ ability to re-sign him, leaving the Jets (and Glenn) as an easy landing spot.

1. CB Carlton Davis.

Davis proved to be the Lions’ ideal veteran cornerback this season, with his skills (77.0 passer rating allowed, 11 pass breakups) and swagger. He also finished the season sidelined with a broken jaw, continuing a run of injuries dating back to his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He has missed at least four games in each of the previous four seasons, and durability concerns persist as players age.

During the Lions’ season-ending press conference on Thursday, general manager Brad Holmes acknowledged Davis’ outstanding performance and stated that no contract talks are currently underway.

“I thought we got some great play from him. I’ll be honest, I thought he played better this year than the previous year, or last year in Tampa, and he’ll tell you the same thing,” Holmes said. “So, no intense action yet, but we’re very aware of it and we’ll go through our normal process.”

Sauce Gardner is obviously the Jets’ top cornerback. However, D.J. Reed, a running mate, is a free agent and appears to be seeking new opportunities.

“I’m ready for free agency, bro. “I’m ready to see what’s next for me,” Reed told Tyler Dunne on The Go Long podcast late this season.

Davis is an obvious replacement for Reed if the Jets must go that route, almost too easy, given his connection to Glenn and familiarity with the new defensive scheme. The Lions must strike a balance between Davis’ age (28) and how many years and money they can commit to him, which will be difficult given that he is likely to have multiple suitors.

Davis may want to stay in Detroit. However, Glenn’s attraction to the Jets, assuming they are interested, appears to be strong.