The NFL offseason presents a significant challenge for executives and decision-makers who must make tough choices regarding their team rosters. Detroit Lions General Manager Brad Holmes currently has approximately $48 million in effective cap space heading into free agency, but he has the option to increase that number by releasing players before the start of free agency on March 13. However, these decisions will be difficult as the Lions have built their roster around players who align with the team’s culture.
The Lions’ approach to free agency and roster construction in the upcoming offseason remains to be seen. If they choose to make substantial investments in the open market, there are ways for them to create additional cap space. After analyzing Detroit’s salary cap situation, the organization can potentially generate an extra $21 million in cap space through four roster moves.
Two notable players who could provide significant cap savings are offensive tackle Taylor Decker and safety Tracy Walker III, as they currently carry substantial cap hits for the 2024 season, ranking behind quarterback Jared Goff. However, it is highly unlikely that Decker will be released due to his integral role as the franchise’s left tackle, protecting Goff’s blindside, and his reputation as one of the team’s prominent leaders in the locker room.
Safety Tracy Walker III saw his role diminished last season, being relegated to a bench and special teams position and even becoming a healthy scratch towards the end of the year. While he started six games, the emergence of Ifeatu Melifonwu late in the season made a strong case for Melifonwu to secure a starting role in the secondary for the upcoming season. As a result, the Lions may consider parting ways with Walker to create additional cap space, which would amount to approximately $1.8 million in savings. Despite his potential, Walker’s limited playing time and the team’s depth at the position could make this decision a possibility.
On the defensive line, defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, a 2021 second-round pick, has had a relatively underwhelming start to his career. Although he still possesses potential, the Lions may contemplate releasing him to generate around $1.8 million in cap savings. While Onwuzurike showed glimpses of growth in his limited playing time, the presence of developing player Brodric Martin and the emergence of Alim McNeill may influence the organization’s decision.
Defensive end John Cominsky is another player who could provide potential cap savings if released, amounting to $4.5 million. Cominsky’s production declined in 2023, with fewer sacks, tackles, and tackles for loss compared to the previous season. If the Lions need to create additional cap space, parting ways with Cominsky could be a consideration.
However, it should be noted that all four players mentioned—Walker, Onwuzurike, Martin, and Cominsky—hold significant roles within the team’s culture, making decisions like these incredibly challenging. The approach taken by Brad Holmes and the Lions’ front office in navigating the salary cap during this offseason will undoubtedly be fascinating to observe.
