Have you ever wondered what happens when a team with a solid starting lineup decides to bring in a former top-10 draft pick with a bit of a question mark? That’s exactly what the Detroit Lions are doing by hosting offensive tackle Jedrick Wills for a free agent visit, and it’s a move that’s got the NFL world buzzing. Let’s break down why this is more than just a routine roster move—it’s a fascinating gamble with potential high rewards.
The Lions’ Strategic Play for the Offensive Line
The Lions are no strangers to bolstering their offensive line, but this time, they’re eyeing someone with a unique backstory. Jedrick Wills, drafted 10th overall in 2020, was once considered a cornerstone for the Cleveland Browns. Starting 45 games at left tackle in his first three seasons, Wills showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in pass protection. But here’s where it gets interesting: injuries derailed his momentum. An MCL injury in 2023 and subsequent complications limited him to just eight games that year, followed by five in 2024. He even sat out the entire 2025 season to recover fully. What makes this particularly interesting is that Wills is still just 27—young enough to bounce back if given the right opportunity.
The Upside and the Unknowns
Personally, I find Wills’ situation intriguing because it’s a classic case of untapped potential. At Alabama, he was a standout performer with an 88.8 PFF grade in 2018, including a stellar 90.5 run-blocking score. His athleticism was never in question, as evidenced by his 8.42 RAS score. But the NFL is a different beast, and his run-blocking grades never exceeded 61.7 in the pros. Is this a matter of scheme fit, injury impact, or something else? The Lions might have an edge in answering that question, thanks to their new offensive coordinator, Drew Petzing, who overlapped with Wills in Cleveland. Petzing’s insights could be a game-changer here.
Why the Lions Are Playing the Long Game
One thing that stands out here is the Lions’ foresight. With Taylor Decker returning for the 2026 season, they don’t need a starting tackle right now. But coach Dan Campbell’s comments at the NFL Combine reveal their mindset: they want someone who can step in if needed, whether as a starter or in a pinch. Wills fits that bill perfectly—if he can regain his pre-injury form. What many people don’t realize is that the Lions are not just building for today; they’re planning for a future where depth and versatility are key.
The X-Factor: Petzing’s Connection
The overlap between Wills and Petzing in Cleveland could be the X-factor here. Petzing, who served as the tight ends and quarterbacks coach during Wills’ tenure, likely has firsthand knowledge of what makes him tick. In my opinion, this insider perspective could be the difference between a risky signing and a calculated risk. If Petzing sees something in Wills that others don’t, the Lions could end up with a steal.
Final Thoughts: A Calculated Risk Worth Taking
While Wills’ recent injury history raises questions, his age, pedigree, and potential make him a compelling option. The Lions aren’t just throwing darts in the dark; they’re leveraging connections and insights to make a strategic move. If Wills can stay healthy and regain his form, this could be one of the offseason’s smartest signings. Even if it doesn’t pan out, the Lions are positioning themselves for flexibility—a hallmark of a well-managed team. As we watch this story unfold, one thing is clear: the Lions are playing chess, not checkers, in their pursuit of offensive line dominance.
