With the NFL Draft fast approaching, Marcus Davenport is clearly the Lions player feeling the most heat. Detroit brought him back on a one-year deal, but after releasing Za’Darius Smith, the move left more questions than answers—especially on the edge.
GM Brad Holmes chalked up Smith’s release to financial logistics, hinting that he might return after the draft. But if the Lions were choosing between Davenport and Smith, it’s fair to say they didn’t pick the safer bet.
Davenport’s injury history is hard to ignore—just 207 snaps in the past two seasons. He’s barely been on the field. If the Lions draft a young edge rusher (or two), there’s a very real chance Davenport is bumped down the depth chart before training camp even ends. His leash is short, and his time to prove something is now.
Lions’ Marcus Davenport Facing Major Pressure Heading Into the Draft
