Detroit Lions Host Former Top-10 Pick For Free Agency Visit
The Detroit Lions are aggressively exploring ways to reinforce their offensive line ahead of the 2026 season. According to league reports, the team recently hosted former Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Jedrick Wills for a free-agent visit. This early meeting highlights a clear focus on adding high-upside talent to a premium position as the front office builds out the roster.
Detroit Lions Host Jedrick Wills
The Cleveland Browns selected Wills with the 10th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Coming out of Alabama, he carried the reputation of a highly athletic and technically clean prospect. He posted outstanding blocking grades in college and showcased elite physical traits. He immediately stepped into the starting lineup in Cleveland, securing the left tackle spot for 45 games over his first three professional seasons. During this stretch, he proved to be a reliable pass blocker, prompting the Browns to pick up his fifth-year option.
Unfortunately, severe health issues quickly altered his career path. Wills suffered an MCL injury midway through the 2023 campaign, which led to a frustrating series of physical setbacks. He managed to play in just eight games that season and only five games in 2024. Rather than continuing to push through the lingering pain, he made the difficult choice to sit out the entire 2025 season to let his body heal completely. Now, at nearly 27 years old, he returns to the open market seeking a fresh start.
How Wills Fits the Lions’ Roster
When you look at the Detroit depth chart, offensive tackle might not seem like a glaring weakness. Veteran Taylor Decker recently announced he will return for the 2026 season to anchor the left side of the line. However, head coach Dan Campbell made it clear at the NFL Combine that the team desperately needs reliable depth at the position. He noted that the team must find a player who can step in during a crunch or take over as a starter if injuries strike.
The NFL season is a brutal marathon, and offensive linemen take on massive wear and tear. Having a player like Wills waiting in the wings provides incredible peace of mind. He fits this exact need, bringing substantial starting experience to a backup or swing tackle role.
Furthermore, he shares a valuable connection with the current Detroit coaching staff. Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing worked on the Browns’ offensive staff during Wills’ first three years in the league. This familiarity gives Detroit valuable insight into his work ethic, personality, and scheme fit.
Signaling Detroit’s Offseason Strategy
Bringing Wills in for an early visit tells us a lot about how general manager Brad Holmes plans to attack free agency. We know the Lions build their offensive identity around a physical, dominant offensive line that controls the trenches. Instead of waiting for an emergency to force their hand, the front office is proactively seeking proven depth to protect their championship aspirations.
This move also signals a classic low-risk, high-reward strategy. Because Wills sat out last year to recover, his current market value is likely much lower than a typical starting tackle. If his medical evaluations check out, Detroit could secure a highly talented player on a budget-friendly contract.
Building a sustainable contender requires finding value where other teams see risk. By targeting a rested and motivated former first-round pick, the Detroit Lions show they want to secure elite depth without compromising their future salary cap flexibility. If the two sides reach an agreement, Detroit will add a highly capable piece to their most important positional group.
