By Mummy Grace 
In the 2024 offseason, Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes sought to bolster the team’s pass rush by adding veteran edge rusher Marcus Davenport to the roster. The one-year, $6.5 million deal was seen as a calculated risk, considering Davenport’s injury history, but it was hoped that his potential would be realized alongside Aidan Hutchinson. However, the signing quickly turned into a major disappointment for the Lions. Davenport’s season got off to a promising start, recording a half-sack in his debut game. Unfortunately, his time on the field was short-lived, as a groin injury sidelined him in Week 2. After returning for one game, Davenport suffered an elbow injury that ultimately ended his season prematurely.
Despite his brief appearance, Davenport was unable to provide the pass-rush depth the Lions desperately needed. Pro Football Focus criticized the signing, noting that although Davenport showed some promise, he played just two more games before being sidelined for the rest of the year with a triceps injury. Given the significant injury concerns and the limited impact, it’s unlikely that the Lions will bring Davenport back for the 2025 season. This move, which was meant to add depth to the pass rush, ultimately didn’t provide the expected value, leaving the Lions to reconsider their approach in future free-agent signings to bolster their defense.