Detroit Lions: Edge rusher depth still concerning
Although solid, the exterior pass rush depth could improve. I expect the Detroit Lions to sign someone before training camp.
With the preseason underway, the Detroit Lions‘ roster appears close to complete. Depth at edge rusher still needs work. Particularly, a standup pass rushing linebacker is what they truly need.
Sure, the Lions signed Devon Kennard in free agency. He’ll get a ton of reps rushing the quarterback and fits the profile of a 3-4 outside linebacker. That’s just one player.
Ziggy Ansah, mind you he hasn’t signed the franchise tag yet, figures to put pressure on passers. He’s more at home with a hand or two in the dirt. Availability is a question mark and he fits better at 3-4 defensive end.
A true dark-horse to contribute is Anthony Zettel. Numerous times he’s floated off the line of scrimmage. Known as a phenomenal yet eccentric athlete, he’s probably the second best standup rusher.
The 3-4 alignment isn’t the Lions base defense by any means. The coaching staff figures to play to the teams strengths. This doesn’t mean they shouldn’t sign someone with experience as a 3-4 outside linebacker.
North of $9 million is plenty of do-re-mi to get another pass rusher in Detroit. I’m not entirely thrilled with the depth of the interior rushers either but it’s better off than the exterior.
This time of year is like clearance shopping. Veterans come at bargain prices given the lack of contract leverage. Most of the time it’s like sifting through a scrap yard. Luckily, there’s good pass rushing linebacker options in the free agency pool.
Spotrac has a nice list of available edge players. Here’s 10 names that could add more sizzle to the unit:
Cliff Avril, Connor Barwin, Ahmad Brooks, Ryan Davis, Elvis Dumervil, Junior Galette, Tamba Hali, Lamarr Houston, Erik Walden, Willie Young.
I’d be totally shocked if all these players went unsigned before the start of training camp. That’s not a bad list of guys. Some are better than others obviously, but there’s no excuse why the Lions shouldn’t take a flier on one of them.
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Out of all the positions, edge rusher is my biggest concern. I won’t lose sleep over the core they have now. I’d sleep more soundly knowing the depth was better.