The Detroit Lions are in a very enviable position right now, as they are fresh off a 15-2 season and have firmly established themselves as one of the best teams in the league under Dan Campbell's watch. However, they can't keep the entire band together.
Detroit needs to save some money this offseason, as Brad Holmes needs to figure out a way to extend young standouts like Jahmyr Gibbs, Brian Branch, and others. The Lions may need to take some time to figure out which veterans can be safely jettisoned in the name of financial stability.
These three vets all had some solid moments with the Lions, but the front office could free up more than $20 million in salary cap space to chase some more high-impact players. This trio may be running out of road in their tenures with the Lions.
3 Detroit Lions cuts that would save $22 million for 2025
3. WR Kalif Raymond
Raymond's speed and shiftiness have been assets for the Lions, but Jameson Williams' emergence as someone who can hit the fabled 1,000-yard barrier as a wide receiver may make him a bit expendable. Raymond was only able to amass 17 catches in the 2024 campaign.
With the Lions in possession of enough draft capital to use a Day 3 pick on a player who could replace him, Raymond, who will turn 31 in August, may have played his final down with Detroit. He should have a market, as there may be one or two more effective seasons as a WR4 and returner in there.
2. EDGE Za'Darius Smith
While it might be a tough sell for a Lions team that was hampered by a lack of a non-Aidan Hutchinson pass rush to get rid of a veteran who performed admirably, Smith could save the Lions a significant seven-figure sum if he is designated as a post-June 1 cut. Smith, who was acquired via a trade with Cleveland, tallied four sacks in eight games.
The Lions have a very clear path to replacing Smith in the 2025 NFL Draft, as this class is packed to the gills with quality edge rushers. Getting rid of Smith might give Detroit a bit more breathing room as they try to lock down many of their best young players.
1. DT DJ Reader
Reader did everything he has done throughout his pro career in his first season with the Lions, as he was a quality run-stuffer who was able to eat up space on the interior. However, Detroit can't afford to keep every member of their defensive line, as Hutchinson will need a new deal soon, and Alim McNeill is already locked up.
Much like Smith, Reader could be replaced in a 2025 NFL Draft that is full of run-stuffing defensive tackles that will come cheap for the next four seasons. Reader proved he can help a contender, however, and he could have a very strong market if he hits the open market.
