As the 2025-26 NFL playoffs kick off with the Green Bay Packers facing the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions fans might find themselves in a bittersweet spot, watching from the sidelines after a season that fell short of expectations. But here’s the silver lining: this game is a treasure trove of talent for Lions scouts eyeing free agency. With mid-March just around the corner, I’ve pinpointed eight pending free agents from both teams who could be on Detroit’s radar. And this is the part most people miss—these players might not be household names, but they could be the missing pieces the Lions need to rebuild. Let’s dive in.
Packers vs. Bears — 8 p.m. ET on Prime Video
Packers Players to Watch:
OT Darian Kinnard (#70) — Think of him as a younger, raw version of Dan Skipper. Kinnard has been the Packers’ go-to jumbo package lineman in the latter half of 2025, with four spot starts at right tackle. While his pass protection leaves something to be desired (11 pressures, 1 sack allowed in 142 snaps), he’s a force in the running game. At just 26, he’s a project worth considering.
See AlsoMLB Prospect Predictions for 2026: Rookies, Top Prospects, and Breakout StarsGame Observations: 8 Takeaways From the Patriots Wild Card Win Over the Chargers on Sunday NightJaguars Clinch AFC South Title in Dominant 41-7 Win Over Titans | 2025 Week 18 HighlightsRaphael Wicky Appointed as Sporting KC's New Head Coach | MLS News & AnalysisC Sean Rhyan (#75) — Rhyan’s versatility is his calling card. Despite playing tackle at UCLA, he’s started at both right guard and center in Green Bay over the past two years. This season, he reclaimed a starting spot after Elgton Jenkins’ injury. While pass protection has been shaky (15 pressures in eight games), his run blocking is solid. He’s not a Day 1 starter for Detroit, but at 25, he’s got room to grow.
LB Quay Walker (#7) — But here’s where it gets controversial. Yes, Walker’s 2022 altercation with a Lions trainer still stings, but let’s not overlook his on-field impact. He’s a tackling machine with pass-rushing upside (9.0 sacks in four seasons). Coverage isn’t his strong suit, and he’ll likely command a hefty price tag, but he’s a long-term solution for a Lions linebacking corps in flux. Is his talent worth the baggage? Let’s debate in the comments.
EDGE Kingsley Enagbare (#55) — The Packers’ 2025 fifth-round pick hasn’t lived up to pass-rushing expectations (11.5 sacks in four years), but his run defense is impressive, thanks to his length and physicality. Detroit’s defensive line could use his skill set, even if he’s more of a rotational piece.
Bears Players to Watch:
G/C Ryan Bates (#71) — Bates isn’t a starter by trade, but he’s been a reliable emergency fill-in at all three interior offensive line positions. His athleticism is undeniable, though size and strength are concerns. At 28, he’s a versatile depth option for a Lions line that could use flexibility.
EDGE Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (#93) — And this is the part most people miss—Tryon-Shoyinka’s connection to Lions defensive line coach Kacy Rodgers (from their Tampa days) could make this a sneaky good fit. The former first-round pick hasn’t reached his potential, but his size (6-foot-5, 259) and flashes of production (five pressures, 13 tackles in limited snaps) are intriguing. Detroit’s edge rush is thin, and he could be a low-risk, high-reward gamble.
CB Nick McCloud (#24) — McCloud’s had a rough year in Chicago, but don’t forget his strong 2022-24 stretch with the Giants (16 starts, 10 passes defended, 3 forced fumbles). He’s versatile, having played nickel, outside corner, and even safety. If the Lions lose Rock Ya-Sin or Amik Robertson, McCloud is a cost-effective alternative.
S Kevin Byard (#31) — But here’s where it gets controversial. Byard, a three-time All-Pro, is 32 and won’t come cheap. However, if Kerby Joseph or Brian Branch’s long-term outlook is uncertain, Byard could be a splash signing. He’s coming off an NFL-leading seven interceptions and would slot in as a deep safety. Is he worth the investment at his age? Sound off below.
Bonus: Bears DT Andrew Billings won’t play due to a torn pectoral, but if the Lions need a veteran run-stuffer and DJ Reader walks, Billings is a name to remember. His physicality and experience could anchor Detroit’s young defensive line.
As the Lions look to rebuild, these free agents offer a mix of potential starters, rotational pieces, and developmental projects. Who would you sign? And which player do you think is the biggest risk? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments!
