By Mummy Grace
As the Detroit Lions shift focus to the offseason, one veteran player may be on the chopping block to free up much-needed cap space. Defensive lineman D.J. Reader, who signed a two-year, $27.25 million contract with the Lions last year, could be cut to help the team make room for new acquisitions or re-sign key players. Releasing Reader would clear $8 million in cap space, and with defensive linemen like Levi Onwuzurike and rising star Alim McNeill in the mix, the Lions may need to make tough roster decisions.
While the Lions are sitting pretty with a projected $67.9 million in cap space, they still have a significant number of decisions to make, especially with 22 players entering unrestricted free agency. Cornerback Carlton Davis III, who had a standout season before a season-ending injury, is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents, and the Lions will have to decide whether to tag, re-sign, or let him walk. The team’s front office has its work cut out for them as they look to strengthen the roster for next season.