Detroit has been active in free agency, bringing in 10 new players, but some additions will have a bigger impact than others. Here are the top two Lions free-agent signings that could make the biggest difference on defense.

1. DJ Wonnum, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker

The signing of DJ Wonnum may not immediately grab headlines, especially when compared to the sack production of Al-Quadin Muhammad, who recorded 11.5 sacks last season. However, a closer look suggests Wonnum could provide more consistent production and overall value to Detroit’s defense.

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Muhammad’s 2025 season appears to be an outlier when compared to the rest of his career. Before last season, he had only one year with more than four sacks in his first seven NFL seasons. Wonnum, meanwhile, has shown more consistent pass-rush production throughout his career. In six seasons, he has recorded at least four sacks four times and has produced two separate seasons with eight sacks.

Wonnum’s versatility also strengthens his value to Detroit’s defense. He has experience playing both defensive end and outside linebacker, giving the Lions flexibility in different defensive packages and alignments. That versatility allows the coaching staff to move him around depending on matchups and game situations.

In addition to rushing the passer, Wonnum contributes more consistently against the run. He logged 271 run-defense snaps last season compared to just 83 for Muhammad, showing he can be a more complete defensive player rather than a situational pass rusher.

For a Lions defense that has struggled at times with consistency and setting the edge against the run, Wonnum’s ability to contribute in multiple areas could make him one of Detroit’s most important defensive additions this offseason.

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2. Roger McCreary, Cornerback

Roger McCreary could end up being one of the most important additions to Detroit’s secondary. Last season, the Rams traded a fifth-round pick for McCreary and a sixth-round pick after he spent his previous four seasons in Tennessee.

Over his career, McCreary has made 31 starts and recorded four interceptions, 17 pass breakups, four sacks, 22 tackles for loss and 257 total tackles, showing his ability to contribute in both coverage and run support.

According to Pro Football Focus, McCreary posted solid grades in 2025. He finished with a 69.2 overall grade, ranking 27th out of 114 cornerbacks. He recorded a 69.7 coverage grade (29th out of 114) and a 63.7 run-defense grade (45th out of 114), showing balanced production across multiple areas.

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In 2025, McCreary recorded 28 solo tackles, one interception, five total pressures, one sack and allowed 10.2 yards per reception over 345 snaps.

The comparison to Amik Robertson highlights why McCreary could be such an important upgrade. Robertson struggled significantly last season, allowing more receiving yards than any other cornerback in the league. His 2025 PFF grades reflected those struggles, finishing with a 48.6 overall grade, which ranked 109th out of 114 cornerbacks. He also posted a 48 coverage grade and a 49 run-defense grade.

Statistically, Robertson allowed 65 receptions, the third most among cornerbacks, and a 109.3 passer rating when targeted. He also recorded 13 missed tackles while playing 842 snaps.

McCreary should represent a clear upgrade at the position and provide a much-needed boost to the Lions’ cornerback room heading into next season.

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Final Thoughts

The Lions have added four new defensive players through free agency, with the other two being defensive lineman Payton Turner and linebacker Damone Clark. Both players will likely be competing for roster spots and may see limited playing time if they make the roster

Brad Holmes did not make any massive splash signings on defense, but he did address two important positions. If Wonnum improves the edge rotation and McCreary stabilizes the cornerback position, these moves could quietly improve Detroit’s defense heading into the 2026 season.