There’s a new face leading the Detroit Lions’ defensive line, and he’s bringing a mix of experience, humility, and high hopes. Kacy Rodgers, who spent the past decade working closely with Todd Bowles in Tampa Bay, is settling into his role in Allen Park. He replaces Terrell Williams, now with the Patriots, and inherits a talented but injury-hampered defensive front.
Rodgers says the opportunity to work with guys like Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill was a major reason he chose Detroit. That, and the culture Dan Campbell has built.
“You look for good opportunities, and you’re walking in with some talented guys,” Rodgers said. “Plus, the culture here is incredible. Even after all my years in the league, I’m still learning — and this is a great place to do that.”
He’s leading a group loaded with potential: Hutchinson, McNeill, DJ Reader, Levi Onwuzurike, Josh Paschal, Roy Lopez, and rookie first-rounder Tyleik Williams. But one name Rodgers is keeping a particularly close eye on? Marcus Davenport.
Davenport, now 28, has had a rough stretch. He’s played in only six games over the last two seasons due to injuries, including a season-ending triceps injury in Week 3 last year. Rodgers said his number one goal is helping Davenport stay healthy for an entire season.
“This guy’s a tremendous player,” Rodgers said. “If we can get him through 17 games, we’re going to like the results.”
Rodgers admits some of Davenport’s past injuries were just bad luck, but he plans to manage his workload carefully — making sure the veteran edge rusher isn’t overextended and is put in position to thrive.
“Sometimes the cookie just crumbles that way,” he said. “But if I can take some of the load off him, I will. Because this guy can really be a difference-maker.”
At his peak with the Saints in 2021, Davenport recorded nine sacks and three forced fumbles in just 11 games. If Rodgers can help unlock that version of him again, Detroit’s D-line could be one of the most disruptive in the league.
Jennifer Hammond Reports from Allen Park as Lions Coaches Break Down the Defense
