The bewitching hour is midnight. That’s when NFL free agency opens.

Tom Lewand, the Lions president, said the team is ready.

“As (GM) Martin Mayhew has said our plan is to be selectively aggressive,’’ Lewand said. “We’ve always been able to put forth actions that meet our plan.’’

The pool of free agents is smaller this year by more than 200 players. Because a new CBA has not been reached, unrestricted players must have six years experience instead of just four. This isn’t a surprise and the Lions have been planning for it.

“We’ve identified guys who fit us. If we can add those guys, great,’’ Lewand said this morning.