heavy.com

Lions Could Land $10M Pass Rusher to Boost Defense

Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions

Getty

Head coach Dan Campbell of the Detroit Lions looks on in the third quarter against the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field on December 15, 2024 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)

The Detroit Lions and head coach Dan Campbell suffered through an incredibly disappointing 2025 NFL season.

Just two years ago in 2024, the Lions were one of the best teams in football. They had a legitimate shot at winning a Super Bowl. Unfortunately, they fell apart in the playoffs against the Washington Commanders.

Last season, Detroit entered the season as a top-tier contender in the NFC once again. When all was said and done, the Lions only mustered up a 9-8 record, which was only good enough for a third-place finish in the NFC North and missing the playoffs.

Heading into the 2026 NFL offseason, Detroit felt a sense of urgency. So far, the Lions have added running back Isiah Pacheco, center Cade Mays, quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, safety Christian Izien, cornerback Roger McCreary, linebacker D.J. Wonnum, and a few other players as well.

Even after the addition of Wonnum, the Lions could use more pass rushing help. With that in mind, Detroit has been linked to a veteran pass rushing specialist.

Detroit Lions Named Suitor for Von Miller in NFL Free Agency

Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports has also suggested the Lions could sign another edge rusher. He took a look at former NFL superstar defensive end Von Miller as a potential option.

“Miller is 37 years old, but he had a strong season in 2025 with 36 pressures and 10 sacks,” Payton wrote.

“A stronger run defender than Martin, but also seven years older. He can be had on a one-year deal worth $10 million.”

Spotrac has suggested a potentially different price for whoever signs Miller this offseason. They believe that he has a market value of around $5.8 million per season.

It’s also important to note that Miller recorded nine sacks during the 2025 season, not 10 as stated. He also racked up 26 total tackles in 17 games played with the Washington Commanders.

Von Miller Has a Long Track Record of Impacting Pass Rush

Even at 36 years old, Miller is still capable of getting after the quarterback. He has recorded 138.5 sacks throughout his 204-game NFL career.

Taking a flier on an aging pass rusher may not be the direction that Detroit chooses to go. However, the Lions could do a lot worse by going with another option.

Miller will be in no rush to sign with a new team. He’s looking to join a legitimate Super Bowl contender as his career winds down. If Detroit came calling, he would almost certainly have interest in listening to the offer.

Expect to see the Lions remain active this offseason. Missing the playoffs last season didn’t sit well with Campbell and company. Adding another pass rusher would be wise and Miller is a name worth keeping an eye on.

Read full news in source page