Detroit Lions: Should this defensive end return to the roster?

So far the Detroit Lions defense has been the most impressive unit on the team. It could get a boost from the return of a suspended player.

After the Detroit Lions take on the Minnesota Vikings, defensive end Armonty Bryant will be eligible to return from a four-game suspension. This suspension stemmed from a substance abuse violation.

Bryant has missed time due to injuries but especially to off-the-field issues. These are reoccurring themes, which is unfortunate for a player of his talent level.

104 is how many snaps he played in an injury/suspension riddled 2016 season. In those snaps, which was only 10.13% of all the defensive plays for the year, he was the third leading sack artist on the squad. Three sacks in only five games is impressive.

Getting consistency from the former Cleveland Brown won’t be easy. Keeping Ziggy Ansah healthy and productive is an even taller task. The Lions adding another proven pass rusher would be a tremendous help.

In order to accommodate the move, Detroit has to open up a roster spot for Bryant. No move makes more sense than to cut rookie running back Tion Green who has been a healthy scratch all season.

The running game for the Lions isn’t a strength for this team. Being functional and executing when it matters most is all they need to do. Five running backs is unnecessary for how often they run the ball plus Green wouldn’t contribute more than Bryant anyhow.

Next: Detroit Lions coaching staff focused on fundamentals

$663,235 is all the cap hit Detroit would have to pay for a player that would arguably be the third best pass rusher once again. Let’s just say the options behind Ansah aren’t earth shattering. The risk is worth reward.