By Adeniyi Precious 
The Detroit Lions have decided to keep defensive end Mitchell Agude around for another year. The team announced on Monday that the 26-year-old has re-signed for the 2025 NFL season.
Agude’s NFL journey hasn’t been the smoothest. After going undrafted in 2023, he started off with the Miami Dolphins but didn’t make it past training camp. That led him to the Lions’ practice squad, where he spent most of his rookie season.
Detroit’s defensive line was hit hard by injuries in 2024, which opened the door for Agude to earn a spot on the 53-man roster. With players like Marcus Davenport, Alim McNeill, Aidan Hutchinson, John Cominsky, and Kyle Peko all missing time, Agude stepped in, mainly contributing on special teams. He finished the season with three tackles and a forced fumble in four games.
It wasn’t a sure thing that he’d be back. Earlier this offseason, the Lions passed on tendering him an exclusive rights free agent contract. However, they ultimately decided to bring him back. Details of his new contract haven’t been released yet.
Azeez Ojulari Joins the Eagles
Meanwhile, a player who could have been on the Lions’ radar is heading to Philadelphia. Former Giants defensive lineman Azeez Ojulari has signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the Eagles.
Detroit had joint practices with New York the past couple of years, so they got a close look at the 24-year-old. However, his numbers against the run weren’t particularly impressive, which may have been a factor in the Lions passing on him.
Now, with Agude returning, the Lions continue to add depth to their defensive line as they prepare for the 2025 season.