Lions Unexpectedly Re-Sign Their ‘Worst Signing of 2024’ for $4.75 Million
Detroit Lions fans have been eagerly waiting to see how the team will address their need for an edge rusher alongside Aidan Hutchinson. Last season, no other Lions player recorded more than four sacks. With a deep free-agent market and some notable trade requests, the team had several options to strengthen its defense. However, they made a surprising move ahead of free agency.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Lions have signed edge rusher Marcus Davenport to a one-year deal after he missed almost his entire first season with the team. Last offseason, Detroit brought him in on a one-year, $6.5 million contract, but he only managed to appear in two games. Following the season, Pro Football Focus’ Dalton Wasserman labeled Davenport as the Lions’ worst signing of 2024. Despite that, the team has now decided to bring him back.
Detroit’s defense was plagued by injuries last year, and Davenport has struggled with availability throughout his career, playing only six games in the last two seasons. His production has also been inconsistent, with just two seasons of five or more sacks over his seven-year career.
With Za’Darius Smith still on the roster and Hutchinson awaiting a contract extension, it’s unlikely the Lions will invest much more in this position. This move suggests they might be planning to draft an edge rusher in the first round, a scenario Lions fans will be hoping for if they want to see an improved pass rush in 2025.
Lions Predicted to Draft Promising Two-Time All-SEC Edge Rusher
Throughout the 2025 NFL offseason, mock drafts have consistently projected the Detroit Lions to select an edge rusher. While free agency could change the landscape with several high-profile names available, the team’s draft plans remain uncertain until they make a move.
In a recent mock draft, Athlon Sports’ Luke Easterling predicted the Lions would select Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. with the 28th overall pick. Pearce has an impressive college record, recording 10 sacks as a sophomore and 7.5 in his final season. He was named to the All-SEC First Team in both years and posted strong numbers at the NFL Combine, including the fastest 40-yard dash among edge rushers and a top-seven broad jump performance.
Pearce also declared for the draft early and won’t turn 22 until midway through his rookie season, adding to his appeal. However, rumors regarding his character have surfaced, which may explain why he could fall in the draft. The Lions will have time to evaluate those concerns before making a decision. If Detroit doesn’t secure an edge rusher in free agency, Pearce could be a strong option in the first round.
