Before the 2024 season, the Detroit Lions sought a seasoned edge rusher to team up with Aidan Hutchinson, and general manager Brad Holmes ultimately signed Marcus Davenport through free agency.
Holmes signed Davenport to a one-year, $6.5 million contract, fully aware of the significant risk involved given the veteran’s injury history. Indeed, that worry turned into reality quite swiftly.
Following a half sack in his debut with the Lions, Davenport sat out the Week 2 match because of a groin issue, came back the next week, but then suffered an elbow injury in Week 3 that concluded his season permanently.
In a recent piece showcasing each team’s top and bottom free-agent acquisitions of the 2024 offseason, Davenport was selected for the Lions. Here’s what Dalton Wasserman from Pro Football Focus stated.
“Wasserman stated that Davenport was recruited to provide the Lions with added pass-rush depth.” “He performed strongly in his initial match with the team but participated in only one additional game afterward before his season concluded because of a triceps injury.”
Although Holmes had a sound strategy by bringing in an experienced edge rusher, it’s evident that the decision did not yield results and it’s likely we’ve witnessed Davenport’s final moments with the Lions.
Compounding the challenges for the Lions’ pass-rush last season, Hutchinson endured a season-ending injury, which significantly left Detroit lacking. Holmes proceeded to acquire Za’Darius Smith to assist the team, and the seasoned player provided a minor improvement with four sacks recorded.
As they look toward 2025, the Lions have Smith and Hutchinson signed as their starting pair, but Smith might become a cap casualty if the team opts not to retain him under his existing contract. However, Smith has shown interest in remaining.
Motor City, 2024 didn’t turn out as expected; we did not achieve the results we aimed for,” Smith posted on Instagram. “2025 presents us with another chance to adapt and strive for that championship!” I cherished every moment with my boys, and despite some new faces for the upcoming season, I look forward to being a part of this wonderful organization in the future!
Regardless of Smith’s return, Detroit requires additional depth and a sustainable solution to complement Hutchinson, as Smith is 32 years old and will be a free agent in 2026.
If the Lions aim to advance further and secure a Super Bowl victory, they need to investigate all available options to enhance their pass-rush. Anticipate that Holmes and the Lions will look into free agency and/or trade opportunities to acquire a seasoned EDGE, followed by the 2025 NFL Draft to secure a lasting solution.