By Sunday 
The Motor City just got a little meaner. The Detroit Lions are adding some veteran muscle to their linebacker room by signing Zach Cunningham—because apparently, you can never have too many guys ready to hit someone.
Zach’s on the Move Again
As first reported by NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, Cunningham is joining the Lions’ 90-man offseason roster. While the terms of the deal haven’t been disclosed yet, the move signals that Detroit is continuing its recent tradition of stacking up gritty, seasoned defenders who know how to make life miserable for quarterbacks.
Cunningham’s recent stint with the Eagles saw him rack up 85 tackles in 13 games during the 2023 season. That came after a shorter spell with the Broncos, where he appeared in seven games and recorded a modest four tackles. But don’t let that fool you—this man has been a tackling machine throughout his career.
With career totals of 709 tackles, 6.5 sacks, one interception, five forced fumbles, and four fumble recoveries, Cunningham brings both experience and production to a Detroit defense that’s been steadily improving.
A Crowded—but Competitive—Room
Let’s be honest: the Lions are not exactly hurting for linebackers. Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, Grant Stuard, Ezekiel Turner, and Trevor Nowaske are already scrapping for spots. This new signing doesn’t necessarily shake up the depth chart—but it does crank up the competition.
And hey, if you’re a coach like Dan Campbell, you love a little extra grit and grind in training camp. Cunningham’s presence could push younger players harder or provide the team with a reliable insurance policy as the season grinds on.
Why This Matters
The Lions aren’t just collecting bodies—they’re building a culture. They’re adding players who have been in the trenches, who know what it’s like to chase down elusive quarterbacks and plug gaping run lanes. Cunningham fits that mold perfectly.
And let’s face it: when your franchise has spent a few decades trying to rebuild its identity, you take your wins wherever you can find them—even if it’s in May, even if it’s a linebacker signing.
Whether Cunningham ends up a starter, a situational guy, or simply a wise locker room voice, one thing’s clear: opposing offenses just got another reason to keep an ice pack handy.
Welcome to Detroit, Zach. Try not to break anyone in practice.