By Sunday 
A Familiar Face Returns to Detroit
The Detroit Lions are giving Marcus Davenport another shot. After injuries derailed his 2024 season, the former first-round pick is returning to the team on a one-year deal reportedly worth “up to” $4.75 million, per NFL insider Ian Rapoport.
For Davenport, this is yet another opportunity to prove he can stay healthy and contribute at a high level. It’s been a frustrating journey for the talented but oft-injured pass rusher, and the Lions are banking on him finally turning the corner.
A Career Plagued by Injuries
Davenport entered the NFL as a highly touted first-round selection by the New Orleans Saints in 2018. However, consistency has been elusive. Despite flashes of dominance, he struggled to stay on the field, with his five seasons in New Orleans marred by nagging injuries.
After an underwhelming stint with the Saints, Davenport signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2023, but again, injuries cut his season short. He played in just four games, recording 2.0 sacks before landing on injured reserve.
His time in Detroit last season followed a similar pattern. Davenport suited up for only two regular-season games, managing just 0.5 sacks before another injury setback kept him sidelined.
One Last Chance to Prove His Worth?
Despite his injury history, the Lions clearly see potential in Davenport. At 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds, he possesses the physical tools of an elite edge rusher. When healthy, he has shown the ability to disrupt quarterbacks and set the edge in the run game.
The challenge? Staying on the field. Through seven seasons, Davenport has played in just 69 games, starting 36. His 24 career sacks suggest there’s still some upside if he can put together a full, healthy campaign.
Lions Betting on Depth and Upside
Detroit’s decision to bring Davenport back signals confidence in their defensive front. While he isn’t expected to be the cornerstone of their pass rush, he could provide valuable depth behind Aidan Hutchinson and company.
For Davenport, this is yet another “prove-it” year—perhaps his last real chance to establish himself as a reliable contributor in the NFL. If he can finally shake the injury bug, the Lions might have found themselves a bargain. If not, it could mark the end of Davenport’s hopes for a long-term role in the league.