The Detroit Lions are poised to lose some offensive line members that helped pave the way for one of the league’s greatest offenses in 2023, but a report suggests they may go to a division rival for one critical acquisition.
According to Christian Booher of SI.com, the Lions could look for new offensive line help in free agency, with Minnesota Vikings guard Dalton Risner being a potential target. The five-year veteran, who has appeared in 77 games in his career, is nearing the conclusion of his one-year contract in Minnesota and may be an inexpensive target for the Lions if the Vikings decide not to re-sign him, according to Booher.
Lions Urged to Add Versatile Veteran
According to Booher, Risner has shown to be a quality interior lineman, particularly as a pass blocker, and appears to be a reasonable target for a Lions team that has already spent heavily in its offensive.
“Risner has shown to be an effective pass-blocker, surrendering only 87 pressures in over 2,000 pass-blocking snaps. Booher stated, “His performance in the run game has been inconsistent.”
“Risner could be a more affordable option for the Lions if they lose a starter, and could also serve as veteran depth for the unit.”
Risner spent the first four seasons of his career with the Denver Broncos, starting all 62 games.
Booher mentioned additional potential offseason arrivals for the Lions, including Miami Dolphins tackle Robert Hunt. The SI.com writer noted that Hunt has been efficient as a pass blocker, surrendering only five total pressures and one sack last season, but has been hampered by injuries.
Lions Could Lose Key Player
Detroit’s free agency intentions could be determined by what the team decides to do with guard Jonah Jackson, who will become a free agent in March. Morgan Cannon of SB Nation’s Pride of Detroit speculated that Jackson could be Detroit’s “toughest decision” this offseason, especially since he is likely to command a contract that is out of their price range.
Cannon observed that the Lions have already made significant investments in their offensive line, with tackle Taylor Decker carrying a $19 million salary hit in 2024 and center Frank Ragnow carrying a $12.8 million cap hit of his own. With Penei Sewell expected to sign a huge extension within the next year, the Lions may not have what it takes to keep Jackson in the
The team is already in talks with quarterback Jared Goff on an extension of his own, and Cannon noted that Jackson could be in high demand when he hits free agency, making him an expensive addition if the Lions want to bring him back.
“From Jackson’s perspective, he is 27 years old and coming off of a third-round rookie contract,” Cannon stated in an email. “Typically, a player should strike while the iron is hot. There may be a team out there trying to enhance their left guard position, and if they have a lot of money to throw at the problem, the Lions may rapidly fall out of the running to keep Jackson.”
