How Marcus Davenport Aids Lions' Defense
The Detroit Lions made a commitment to improve their pass-rush with the signing of Marcus Davenport.
Formerly of the New Orleans Saints and Minnesota Vikings, Davenport comes to Motown looking to prove that his recent injury issues are a thing of the past.
It's a good deal for the Lions and general manager Brad Holmes, signing Davenport to a one-year deal worth up to $10.5 million for the 2024 season. When healthy, he can provide a strong presence on the edge, paired with Aidan Hutchinson.
However, his availability has been limited due to a variety of injury issues in recent years.
Kyle Mosley of Saints News Network told All Lions, "Holmes made a calculated risk for an edge rusher who's still in his prime. He has an opportunity to reconnect with Aaron Glenn and give the Lions some length."
Davenport also has the connection to Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who was on staff during the majority of Davenport's tenure with the Saints. As a result, the Lions likely feel as though there are elements of his game that can help the defense.
Listed at 6-foot-6, 265 pounds, the veteran can be a threat in multiple ways. He's long enough to be a presence at the line of scrimmage, along with the ability to bend around the edge and get to the quarterback.
"His strengths are his ability to rush from multiple angles, turn around the edge, and defends well on bubble screens," Mosley said. "Davenport's weaknesses have been injuries, getting stifled on the run, and overthinking."
Though the setbacks have hindered his development, the veteran has shown strong flashes of potential that could be a huge asset for the Lions if they are able to unlock his abilities.
"He's an intelligent and hard-working defensive end who has yet to reach his full potential," Mosley explained. "Given the right system and defensive coordinator, Davenport could thrive."
Currently, Davenport looks the part of a rotational pass-rusher who would work nicely alongside Hutchinson and James Houston. If he can remain healthy, he could wind up being a big addition for the Lions' defense.
