Ranking Detroit Lions' 2026 list of pending free agents, projecting their next contracts and odds they're re-signed
Allen Park — With more than a dozen players on injured lists, there are at least a handful of players you’ve already seen in a Detroit Lions uniform for the last time. With nearly 30 on contracts that expire in March, far more will get at least one more opportunity to suit up for the Honolulu blue and silver in Sunday’s season finale against the Chicago Bears.
Roster turnover is a part of life in the NFL. The Lions have experienced more continuity than most franchises in recent years, with a focus on drafting and developing, but after a disappointing 2025 campaign, where Super Bowl aspirations gave way to missing the postseason altogether, you can count on more significant changes than usual this offseason.
Below is a list of Detroit’s unrestricted and restricted free agents. The team has an option to tender the few who are restricted, but with those one-year contracts starting at $3.26 million for first right of refusal in 2025, that’s unlikely.
We’ve taken it upon ourselves to rank the group of 28 players, while offering an early estimation on what it could take to re-sign them, and an early projection on how likely they’ll be back with Detroit in 2026.
1. Edge Al-Quadin Muhammad
Muhammad was one of the biggest bargains in the NFL this season. After flashing potential in 2024 as an injury replacement, the Lions were able to retain him with a one-year deal that cost under $1.5 million.
Utilized as a rotational player because of some limitations defending the run, he thrived in pass-rushing situations. He will enter the final week of the season top-10 in sacks (11.0), top-25 in quarterback pressures (52), and 20th in pass-rush win rate (15.9%), according to Pro Football Focus.
Muhammad has earned a raise — a significant one — but he turns 31 years old in March, so he’ll have difficulting commanding much more than a two-year deal. Given the challenges of finding quality pass-rush production, it would be a good idea for the Lions to retain him, but they might not be able to afford the pricetag.
Projected contract: One year, $6 million, incentives up to $8 million
Odds they re-sign: 45%
2. Linebacker Alex Anzalone
A steady producer and key locker room voice throughout his five seasons with the Lions, Anzalone appeared in at least 16 games for the third time in the past four years. His status for the finale is unfortunately up in the air after he suffered a concussion on Christmas.