Detroit Lions sign tight end Luke Willson, FA DT visits

The Detroit Lions have found themselves a quality blocking tight end via free agency. But the Motor City is also looking to address their biggest need.

With the release of Eric Ebron last week and the signing away of Darren Fells via free agency, the Detroit Lions have some major voids to fill at tight end. On Wednesday, the Lions took their first step in doing so by inking former Seattle Seahawks tight end Luke Willson to a one-year deal worth $2.5 million, that according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.

An excellent blocking tight end, Willson presumably will fill the role that Fells did for the Motor City previously. One that is more of a run-blocker and pass protector than a receiving threat. A fifth-round selection out of Rice in 2013, Willson had spent his entire five-year career so far in Seattle. The 28-year old has posted a career total of 89 receptions and 11 touchdowns in that span.

Willson joins a tight end group in Detroit that also features last year’s fourth round selection Michael Roberts, as well as reserves Brandon Barnes and Hakeem Valles. At the moment, Willson would likely be the starter in the Motor City, but the Lions are far from done improving their roster.

According to Rapoport, Detroit is on the edge of agreeing to a deal with former New England Patroits defensive tackle Ricky Jean-Francois. The 31-year old veteran was a seventh round out of LSU in 2009.

Jean-Francois spent his first four seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. He then bounced around the league before landing with the Patroits after he was cut by the Green Bay Packers last November. He played just six games for New England, posting a total of 10 tackles.

Next: Lions should be applauded for free agency moves

According to ESPN’s Field Yates, the Detroit Lions have scheduled visits with defensive tackles Johnathan Hankins and Alan Branch and have interest in Sylvester Williams as they continue to look for free agents to fill their biggest offseason need.