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Predictions for the Detroit Lions’ NFL free agency in 2024: Anticipated signings, departures, and rationale behind them

A whirlwind awaits following the weekend, as the onset of the 2024 NFL free agency is imminent, and the Detroit Lions are poised to be active with a cap space of $63.7 million.

Commencing on Monday at noon, the legal tampering period allows players with expiring deals to communicate with all 32 teams through their agents. Subsequently, on Wednesday at 4 p.m., the floodgates fully open with the inception of the new league year, facilitating player movement.

While the Lions are primed to participate, the scale of their maneuvers remains uncertain. Despite harboring needs that could be addressed in free agency, such as cornerback or defensive line assistance, the team enters the offseason with the eighth-largest cap space following an unexpected surge in the salary cap.

Decisions loom regarding big-ticket extensions for current players like quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, potentially prompting a cautious approach. Conversely, general manager Brad Holmes could opt for bold moves, such as acquiring standout corner L’Jarius Sneed via trade.

The ambiguity evokes both apprehension and allure, fueling the bustling predictions business. Notable prognostications suggest various outcomes for the Lions’ free agency.

For instance, writer Jim Reineking forecasts the Lions securing guard Michael Onwenu, a Detroit Cass Tech and Michigan football alumnus, from the New England Patriots, citing urgency stemming from the free agency of Graham Glasgow and Halapoulivaati Vaitai.

Reineking also anticipates the Lions signing veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore from the Dallas Cowboys, citing his availability following franchise tags on L’Jarius Sneed and Jaylon Johnson.

Additionally, Reineking predicts C.J. Gardner-Johnson, the 16th-ranked player, rejoining the Philadelphia Eagles, his former team, following a fruitful season with the Lions.

In parallel, ESPN’s Bowen advocates for the Lions signing left guard Jonah Jackson to bolster their offensive line, emphasizing his proficiency in pass protection. Bowen also endorses Kendall Fuller, a veteran cornerback, as an optimal fit to enhance the Lions’ secondary profile, aligning with Aaron Glenn’s defensive scheme.

Sporting News echoes similar sentiments, predicting the Lions’ acquisition of Fuller to fortify their cornerback roster and align with Glenn’s strategies.

In sum, diverse forecasts highlight the anticipation surrounding the Lions’ free agency endeavors, with expectations ranging from strategic acquisitions to familiar reunions, underscoring the pivotal decisions shaping the team’s trajectory.