Following an exhilarating Saturday of Wild Card playoff football, the NFL continues on Sunday with a lineup of three games that aim to maintain the excitement.
For fans of the Detroit Lions, however, the offseason is in full swing, and the team needs to make improvements to extend their play into January next year. As you enjoy Sunday’s matches, here are 12 players worth watching, all of whom will enter free agency in March.
Bills at Jaguars — 1 p.m. ET — CBS
G/C Connor McGovern (#66) – Considered one of the top centers available in free agency, McGovern has started as the Bills’ center for two years without allowing a sack. At 28, he may be pricey but provides a reliable, long-term option.
LG David Edwards (#76) – Should the Lions shift Tate Ratledge to center, Edwards could serve as a dependable left guard, which would allow Christian Mahogany to revert to right guard. With a solid career and previous ties to the team, he might be available at a reasonable cost.
LB Devin Lloyd (#0) – If Detroit opts not to re-sign Alex Anzalone, Lloyd—having a standout season with significant stats—would be a premium signing to enhance their linebacker coverage, albeit at a high price.
S Andrew Wingard (#42) – A quintessential “Dan Campbell guy,” Wingard has battled to become a starter despite being an undrafted player. His solid run defense makes him a potential cost-effective option, especially if there are concerns over Brian Branch’s injury.
49ers at Eagles — 4:30 p.m. ET — FOX
RB Brian Robinson (#3) – After his rookie season, Robinson seeks a better contract and could be a younger alternative for the Lions if they trade David Montgomery. While not necessarily cheaper, he brings valuable experience.
EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos (#94) – This physical edge player has shown bursts of potential and could complement Detroit’s pass rush alongside Aidan Hutchinson, even if he isn’t projected as a starter.
TE Grant Calcaterra (#81) – With several Eagles tight ends hitting free agency, Calcaterra could enhance Detroit’s pass blocking, offering more promise than his limited run-blocking stats suggest.
EDGE Jaelan Phillips (#50) – Though Philips’ recent performance has frustrated some Lions fans, he represents a potential long-term addition if the Lions pursue him next offseason.
Chargers at Patriots — 8:15 p.m. ET — NBC
OT Trevor Penning (#64) – Recently traded to Los Angeles, Penning has shown promise this season and offers versatility across the line, marking him as a worthwhile investment.
S Tony Jefferson (#23) – A seasoned veteran, Jefferson has performed well this season, logging multiple interceptions and could provide stability amidst injury concerns in Detroit’s secondary.
TE Austin Hooper (#81) – Hooper, nearing the end of his career, can be a cost-effective option for Detroit, potentially boosting a tight-end group that has dealt with injuries this year.
LB Jack Gibbens (#51) – Emerging in his role under Mike Vrabel, Gibbens is enjoying a breakthrough season with impressive stats and could be a valuable addition to the Lions’ linebacker unit.
