By Sunday 
How Detroit Struck Gold with One Signing and Stumbled with Another
The Detroit Lions’ 2024 free agency campaign showcased the duality of NFL signings: one undeniable success and one unfortunate misstep. Despite exhaustive scouting and planning, free agency often feels like a gamble. For the Lions, the outcomes of their key signings—Kevin Zeitler and Marcus Davenport—highlighted the unpredictable nature of these decisions.
Kevin Zeitler: A Free Agency Home Run
When the Lions signed veteran guard Kevin Zeitler to replace Jonah Jackson, who departed for the Rams, expectations were cautiously optimistic. Zeitler, at 34 years old, carried a wealth of experience but was entering the later stages of his career. What followed, however, was a masterclass in consistency and impact.
Zeitler earned Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) No. 3 overall grade for guards in 2024 (86.8), with an exceptional run-blocking grade of 87.2, his best since 2014. He missed two games, including the playoff loss to Washington, but his presence on the offensive line was pivotal throughout the season.
“Zeitler arrived in Detroit as the replacement up front for Jonah Jackson,” noted Dalton Wasserman of PFF. “The 34-year-old played brilliantly, earning the highest run-blocking grade of his career and his highest overall grade since 2014.”
As the Lions head into the offseason, retaining Zeitler will undoubtedly be a priority. Despite his age, his wife hinted on social media that retirement isn’t on the horizon, referencing “Year 14.” With a strong market likely for Zeitler’s services, Detroit will need to pull out all the stops to keep him in the fold.
Marcus Davenport: The Disappointment That Couldn’t Be Avoided
On the flip side, the Lions took a calculated risk in signing Marcus Davenport to bolster their pass rush. Known for his talent but plagued by an injury history, Davenport came to Detroit on a budget-friendly deal. Unfortunately, his time with the team followed a familiar and frustrating script.
Davenport’s Lions tenure started with promise. In Week 1, he recorded six quarterback pressures and 0.5 sacks, showing the potential the team hoped to unlock. But injuries derailed his season almost immediately. A groin issue sidelined him for Week 2, and a triceps injury in Week 3 ended his year after just 89 defensive snaps.
“Davenport played well in his first game with the team but played just one more game after that before his season ended due to a triceps injury,” Wasserman summarized.
While Davenport’s triceps injury was the result of an unfortunate chop block by Cardinals offensive tackle Paris Johnson, his broader history of unavailability made the signing a gamble from the start. Over the last two seasons, Davenport has played just six games, making it highly unlikely the Lions will extend his stay in Detroit.
The Lions’ Offseason Dilemma
The contrast between Zeitler and Davenport makes Detroit’s next steps clear. Zeitler, despite his age, proved to be an invaluable asset on the offensive line. The Lions will likely prioritize re-signing him, potentially offering a multi-year deal to secure his services for another playoff run.
Davenport, on the other hand, seems destined for free agency. While his talent is undeniable, the risk of another injury-marred season makes his return highly unlikely.
Final Verdict: One Hit, One Miss
The Lions’ 2024 free agency class was a tale of two extremes. Zeitler was everything Detroit hoped for and more, while Davenport’s season epitomized the risks inherent in signing injury-prone players.
As Detroit eyes another playoff push in 2025, the lessons learned from these signings will undoubtedly shape their approach to free agency. For now, though, Lions fans can take solace in knowing that even with one misstep, the team’s core is growing stronger.