DONE DEAL: The Detroit Lions are bringing back defensive end Marcus Davenport on a one-year contract worth $4.75 million.

The Detroit Lions have secured defensive end Marcus Davenport for another season, signing him to a one-year deal worth $4.75 million. This move reflects the team’s continued investment in strengthening their defensive front as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season.

A Strategic Move for the Lions

Bringing Davenport back signals that Detroit values his potential impact on their defense. While injuries have hampered his career at times, the Lions clearly see enough upside to give him another opportunity. At 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds, Davenport possesses the size, athleticism, and pass-rushing ability that can be a valuable asset in Detroit’s defensive scheme.

His return gives the Lions added depth at defensive end, a position that is crucial for disrupting opposing quarterbacks and bolstering their overall defensive effectiveness. Given how Detroit has been working to improve its defense over the past few seasons, keeping a player like Davenport in the mix aligns with their broader strategy.

Davenport’s Career So Far

Davenport entered the NFL as a first-round pick in the 2018 draft, selected 14th overall by the New Orleans Saints. Coming out of UTSA, he was viewed as a raw but highly talented pass-rusher with the potential to develop into a dominant force on the defensive line.

During his time with the Saints, Davenport showed flashes of his potential but struggled with consistency and injuries. Despite those setbacks, he managed to contribute with 21.5 sacks over five seasons in New Orleans. His best season came in 2021 when he recorded a career-high nine sacks, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposing offenses when healthy.

After leaving New Orleans, Davenport signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings for the 2023 season. Unfortunately, injuries once again limited his impact, as he appeared in only four games. Given the shortened season, the Vikings chose not to bring him back, leading to his opportunity with the Lions.

Why the Lions Made This Move

For Detroit, this signing is a low-risk, high-reward decision. At just $4.75 million for one season, the financial commitment is relatively modest, especially if Davenport can stay healthy and contribute to the pass rush. The Lions are betting that a fresh start and a new environment can help him regain his form.

Additionally, adding Davenport provides insurance along the defensive line. The Lions already have standout pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson, but they need more depth and rotational pieces to sustain pressure throughout games. If Davenport can find his rhythm, he could serve as an effective complement to Hutchinson and the rest of Detroit’s defensive front.

The Fit in Detroit’s Defense

Detroit’s defense has been steadily improving under head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Last season, the unit showed flashes of dominance but still had areas that needed improvement, particularly in pass defense and getting after the quarterback.

Davenport’s role will likely involve coming in on passing downs to add pressure, while also providing rotational support to keep other defensive linemen fresh. Given his combination of size and speed, he has the ability to win one-on-one matchups, which could free up other defenders to make plays.

Moreover, playing under Campbell—a coach known for his ability to motivate players—could be exactly what Davenport needs to reignite his career. If he can stay on the field, he has a chance to prove he can still be an effective pass-rusher in the NFL.

A Prove-It Year for Davenport

This contract essentially serves as a “prove-it” deal for Davenport. With only a one-year commitment, the Lions are giving him the chance to demonstrate that he can stay healthy and be a productive force on the defensive line. If he performs well, he could earn a longer-term deal, either with Detroit or another team in free agency next year.

 

For Davenport, this is an opportunity to reestablish himself as a starting-caliber defensive end. At 27 years old, he still has time to turn things around and show that he can consistently contribute at a high level.

What This Means for the Lions’ Offseason Plans

Re-signing Davenport is just one piece of Detroit’s offseason strategy. The Lions are coming off a strong 2023 season in which they won the NFC North and reached the NFC Championship Game, but they are still looking for ways to improve. Strengthening the defense is a priority, and keeping Davenport in the fold helps maintain continuity while also adding competition along the defensive line.

Detroit could still look to add more pass-rushers through the draft or free agency, but this signing gives them flexibility. If Davenport can stay healthy and be productive, he could provide great value at his price point.

Final Thoughts

The Lions’ decision to bring back Marcus Davenport is a calculated move that carries potential upside. While injuries have been an issue throughout his career, the talent is there. If he can stay on the field and contribute, this could turn out to be a smart addition to Detroit’s defense.

 

For now, the focus will be on getting him healthy and ready for training camp. If all goes well, Davenport could play a key role in helping the Lions build on their success and make another deep playoff run in the 2024 season.