The Detroit Lions have brought defensive tackle Roy Lopez on board, and it’s not just a random pick-up. Head coach Dan Campbell had his eye on Lopez since their Week 3 face-off last season, where Lopez, then with the Cardinals, went head-to-head with Lions’ top center, Frank Ragnow. Despite the Lions rushing for 187 yards that game, Campbell was impressed with how Lopez held his ground against Ragnow.
Lopez, a 27-year-old, has shown he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty in the trenches. Campbell described him as a player who thrives in base formations, taking on double teams and keeping linebackers free to make plays. With Alim McNeill potentially sidelined at the start of the 2025 season, Lopez, alongside DJ Reader, is expected to be a key figure in fortifying the Lions’ run defense.
In the 2024 season, Lopez played 16 games for the Cardinals, recording 28 total tackles (10 solo), one sack, three passes defensed, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. His consistent performance earned him a performance-based bonus of nearly $477,529.
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Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 318 pounds, Lopez brings both size and experience to Detroit’s defensive line. His addition is part of the Lions’ strategy to strengthen their defense, especially against the run. Fans will be eager to see how his grit and determination translate on the field in the upcoming season.
Impressive Clash: Lopez Stands Tall Against Lions’ Star Center
