The Detroit Lions made a move to address their defensive line by signing D.J. Wonnum, but don’t expect that to be the final piece of the puzzle.
In fact, there’s a strong reason to believe Detroit is far from done adding to its EDGE room.
Wonnum profiles more as a run defender and rotational piece, not necessarily the type of player who consistently wins as a high-end pass rusher. That leaves the door wide open for the Lions to bring in a veteran who can get after the quarterback.
Here are two names that make a lot of sense.
1. Von Miller
If the Lions want a proven closer off the edge, Von Miller is about as accomplished as it gets.
Even at 36 years old, Miller showed in 2025 that he can still impact the game:
- 9.0 sacks
- 16 solo tackles
- Played all 17 games
Miller remains one of the most feared situational pass rushers in the league, and his experience in big moments would be invaluable for a Detroit team with Super Bowl aspirations.
A one-year deal would:
- Limit long-term risk
- Provide elite pass-rush ability in key situations
- Add championship pedigree to the locker room
2. Kyle Van Noy
A familiar name for Lions fans, Kyle Van Noy could be another intriguing option.
In 2025, Van Noy recorded:
- 2.0 sacks
- 12 solo tackles
- Played 15 games
While he may not be the same explosive player he once was, Van Noy brings:
- Versatility
- Football IQ
- Leadership
He can still contribute in a rotational role and would provide depth behind Aidan Hutchinson while helping stabilize the edge group.
What This Means for Detroit
Don’t be surprised if the Lions:
- Sign one more veteran EDGE on a 1-year deal
- Draft a pass rusher in Round 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft
That combination would give Detroit both immediate production and long-term upside.
Bottom Line
Signing D.J. Wonnum was a step, but not the solution.
If Detroit wants to take its defense to the next level, adding a true pass-rushing threat still feels like a must. Veterans like Von Miller or Kyle Van Noy could be exactly what the Lions need to round out the position group.
One Response
Not impressed at all with the dj wonnum signing… Looking at the numbers jadavion clowney would be a great value signing here… Wonnum may have been a starter but his numbers are very unimpressive… Would not have paid him as much as they did when they could have had Clowney for the same price and he’s much more talented