A former star from the Washington Huskies is remaining with the team that selected him.
Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft, inked a one-year extension to remain with the team on Wednesday. The agreement is said to be valued at $5.5 million and retains the ex-Husky on a team competing for the NFC championship.
Detroit showed interest in securing Onwuzurike before the season started, but the Texas native chose to complete the year before exploring the market and obtaining a bigger contract than he probably would have received last autumn. Onwuzurike recorded 1.5 sacks and added vital depth to the Lions in his healthiest season as a professional following spinal fusion surgery in 2022.
The Lions have concentrated on bringing in players around Onwuzurike on the defensive line since free agency commenced on Wednesday. On Wednesday, Detroit also signed former Arizona Cardinal Roy Lopez and restricted free agent Myles Adams, both of whom are anticipated to play behind starters Alim McNeill and DJ Reader.
McNeill, who extended his contract during the season, is recovering from a torn ACL, though. Should he be sidelined early in the season or face restrictions during recovery, Onwuzurike is expected to take over his starting position. Aiming to enter free agency next spring, the ex-Husky might strike it rich if his performances are as impressive as his moments in Montlake.
Onwuzurike played 10 games in 2024 out of 16 total appearances. In addition to his 1.5 sacks, he recorded 28 tackles and 13 quarterback pressures.