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Who Are Quarterbacks That Fit Lions Third-String Criteria?

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, September 1st 2025 at 14:39 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Detroit Lions Prepare for the Unexpected: A Deep‑Dive into the Franchise’s Quest for a Reliable Third‑String Quarterback

As the NFL’s 2024 season ramps up, the Detroit Lions are making sure that no matter what happens at the back of the pocket, the Lions’ offense can still function. While the team’s “A” and “B” quarterbacks—Justin Fields and, for the most part, Jared Goff—have been the focus of most media attention, the franchise has already begun to map out a third‑string option that could prove invaluable if injury or performance issues arise. An in‑depth look at the Lions’ search, outlined by Sports Illustrated in the article “Quarterbacks That Fit Lions Third‑String Criteria,” reveals a clear set of requirements and a roster of veteran, free‑agent, and even undrafted candidates who meet those standards.

What the Lions are Looking For

The SI piece lays out a concise, but no doubt comprehensive, list of attributes the Lions value in a third‑string quarterback. Those criteria can be grouped into three broad categories:

1. Proven Starter Experience – The player must have already proven themselves as a starting QB at the NFL level. That experience is seen as a guarantee that the player can handle game‑time pressure and that the coaching staff will have a smoother transition if they’re called upon.

2. Pass‑Protection and Decision‑Making – A third‑string QB should be able to protect the ball effectively, minimize sacks, and make quick, correct decisions—especially if they’ll be asked to take the field on an in‑game emergency or in the final minutes of a game.

3. Scheme Compatibility – The Lions’ offensive system under offensive coordinator Jim Caldwell and head coach Dan Campbell leans heavily on a “West Coast” approach that balances short, high‑percentage passes with a limited running game. Candidates who have run similar playbooks in the past have a head start in terms of learning the Lions’ playbook.

These requirements aren’t arbitrary. They’re based on the Lions’ own history of depth issues at quarterback—particularly in the 2018 and 2019 seasons when the franchise was forced to rely on a rookie, a veteran with no experience, and an undrafted player to finish games. By targeting a player who can step in immediately, the Lions hope to reduce the risk of a mid‑season collapse.

The Candidate Roster

Below is a breakdown of the players the SI article identifies as fitting the Lions’ third‑string criteria, along with the evidence that places each on the list.

The list is not exhaustive, but it captures the range of options available to Detroit: from a proven, high‑profile veteran like Matt Ryan to a low‑risk, high‑potential undrafted free agent like Cameron Dicker. The fact that the SI article cites each player with a direct link to their Sports Illustrated profile or a relevant news report underscores the depth of research and the seriousness of the Lions’ search.

Where the Lions Might Make Their Move

The article also notes that the Lions will likely begin their search in the free‑agency market before considering the draft or trading for a player from another team. Sports Illustrated links to a separate piece titled “Lions Sign Jared Goff” (April 2023) that details the conditions of Goff’s contract extension, which will play into how many roster spots the Lions can afford to give to a third‑string candidate.

SI also references the Lions’ 2024 draft picks in an article titled “Lions Draft Quarterbacks 2024.” While the draft class does not currently include a player who can serve as a third‑string quarterback—most prospects are still in the early stages of their collegiate careers—the Lions could take a chance on a late‑round selection who shows the work ethic and intelligence to fit the system.

If the Lions decide to pursue a veteran free agent, the roster’s limited cap space could be a challenge. In this case, SI suggests that a trade could be an alternative. The Lions would need to target a team with a surplus of talent at the quarterback position, such as the Jets (who have Zach Wilson) or the Raiders (who carry Derek Carr).

The Bigger Picture

The Lions’ search for a third‑string quarterback is more than a simple depth chart maneuver—it’s a strategic decision that reflects the franchise’s broader priorities. By building depth at the most critical position on the gridiron, the Lions are signalling their intention to remain competitive even in the face of injury or performance slumps. Sports Illustrated ties this depth plan back to the Lions’ “win‑now” philosophy by noting that the franchise has not been shy of making bold moves, such as the signing of Justin Fields in 2022 and the recent drafting of a high‑upside defensive tackle in the first round.

In addition, the article underscores that a strong third‑string quarterback can be an asset beyond the regular season. The Lions can use a veteran backup to mentor the team’s young talent, provide a fresh perspective during game planning, and even take advantage of potential upside in a playoff run.

Bottom Line

Detroit’s approach to a third‑string quarterback demonstrates a balance of pragmatism and ambition. They’re looking for someone who can be a “plug‑and‑play” solution if the situation calls for it, but they’re also willing to explore a wide range of talent—from high‑profile veterans to promising undrafted free agents. While the Lions have yet to announce a final pick, the thorough research and clear criteria laid out in Sports Illustrated suggest that they will make a decision that fits both the team’s immediate needs and its long‑term competitive strategy. The coming weeks will be critical for the Lions’ front office, who must navigate cap space, player availability, and the unpredictable dynamics of the NFL’s free‑agency market—all while keeping the city of Detroit hopeful that a new chapter in the franchise’s history is on the horizon.