Brad Holmes, Detroit Lions
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General manager Brad Holmes of the Detroit Lions speaks to the media during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 25, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Just two short years ago, the Detroit Lions were arguably the best team in the NFL. While they came up short of the Super Bowl, the championship window seemed to have opened.
Unfortunately, the 2025 season was a completely different story. Dan Campbell’s team didn’t look like a shell of what it was in 2024. The Lions missed the playoffs when all was said and done.
Heading into the 2026 NFL offseason, there is a new sense of urgency in Detroit. Brad Holmes has been aggressive in free agency, adding pieces like running back Isiah Pacheco, center Cade Mays, and cornerback Roger McCreary, among other players.
With that being said, there are still some needs the Lions should address. One of those needs comes in the form of the defensive pass rush. Detroit could use another pass rusher this offseason.
There is a new name that can be added to the list of potential targets for the Lions.
Detroit Lions Urged to Poach Key 2025 Starter From Cowboys
Jadeveon Clowney, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Detroit Lions
GettyJadeveon Clowney #42 of the Dallas Cowboys looks on prior to the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Devon Platana of Detroit Jock City has urged the Lions to consider signing former No. 1 overall pick Jadeveon Clowney to bolster their pass rush.
“The NFC North is shaping up to be another competitive battle next season, and the Lions can’t afford to enter the mix without a bolstered pass rush,” Platana wrote. “Hutchinson is one man and can only do so much alone, which is why signing Clowney before the calendar flips to April must happen.”
He makes a good point. The NFC North was talented last season and has improved even more ahead of the 2026 season. Detroit can leave no stone unturned in pursuit of contention.
Clowney’s price tag wouldn’t break the bank for the Lions either. Spotrac has projected him to land a one-year deal worth around $5.7 million.
Assuming that truly is the price tag, Detroit shouldn’t think twice about pursuing him.
What Would Jadeveon Clowney Bring to the Lions’ Defense?
Jerry Jones and the Cowboys signed Clowny after the 2025 season began. He was brought in to help ease the loss of superstar pass rusher Micah Parsons, who was traded to the Green Bay Packers.
Clowney was able to do just that. In 13 games played in Dallas last season, he racked up 41 total tackles to go along with 8.5 sacks, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and four defended passes.
Back in the 2014 NFL Draft, Clowney was the No. 1 overall pick by the Houston Texans. He was expected to develop into a superstar. That hasn’t happened, but he has carved out a very solid career to this point in time.
Throughout his 12-year career, Clowney has played in 153 games and totaled 450 tackles, 66.5 sacks, 16 forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries, an interception, a defensive touchdown, and 36 defended passes.
Adding Clowney alongside of Aidan Hutchinson would be a recipe for success. If the Lions are all-in on competing for a championship in 2026, they should strongly consider bringing the 33-year-old defensive end onboard.