Lions’ Free Agency Report Card: Hits and Misses
The Detroit Lions have been active in free agency, but not all moves have been well-received. Analyst Mike Payton was especially critical of the team’s decision to let key players walk.
F Grade: Losing veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, who signed with the Titans, was a major blow to the offensive line. Payton argues Detroit should have made a stronger push to retain him.
D Grade: The release of edge rusher Za’Darius Smith also raised concerns, as the Lions haven’t yet reinvested that cap space into a significant replacement.
However, not all moves were viewed negatively:
A Grade: Signing cornerback D.J. Reed was praised as a savvy move, as the Lions landed him at a better value than Carlton Davis, who went to New England.
A+ Grade: Re-signing Levi Onwuzurike was another win, with Detroit keeping him at a price far below projections.
While some losses sting, the Lions’ front office still has time to address key needs before the season kicks off.
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