By Blessing 
PFF Can’t Stop Talking About This Key Lions Offseason Move
The Detroit Lions made a significant move along their defensive line this offseason, and Pro Football Focus (PFF) has taken notice. While Detroit didn’t make a splash in free agency with new additions up front, they prioritized retaining their own talent—most notably Levi Onwuzurike.
Betting on Their Own Talent
Instead of chasing high-priced free agents for the defensive line, the Lions opted to double down on their existing players. They’re banking on a healthy Marcus Davenport to boost their pass rush off the edge. Meanwhile, on the interior, bringing back Onwuzurike appears to be a smart decision, especially considering his ability to generate pressure.
PFF agrees. Among all of Detroit’s offseason moves, re-signing Onwuzurike stands out as the one with the most potential upside. Analyst Ben Cooper highlighted this in a recent evaluation, calling it “one of the best value signings of free agency.”
A High-Value Deal
Onwuzurike’s return to Detroit comes on a one-year contract worth just $4 million. That’s a bargain, considering PFF had projected his market value at $10 million per year. As Cooper noted, this deal comes with “almost no downside” for the Lions.
Looking at his 2024 performance, it’s clear why PFF is so high on him. Onwuzurike set career highs with 47 quarterback pressures, a 70.2 overall PFF grade, and 20 defensive stops. His pass-rush win rate of 12.5% ranked among the top 15 at his position, making him a critical piece of Detroit’s defensive line. If he can stay healthy, he could be a real difference-maker.
Onwuzurike’s Role Just Became Even More Important
The Lions will be leaning heavily on Onwuzurike, particularly with fellow defensive tackle Alim McNeill still recovering from an ACL injury. McNeill’s rehab is expected to stretch into the 2025 season, making Onwuzurike’s presence in the middle even more crucial. Detroit will need him to step up and provide both run-stopping ability and interior pass rush.
One of the Best Value Signings in Free Agency
PFF didn’t just highlight Onwuzurike’s upside—they also named his contract one of the best value deals of the offseason. In an earlier breakdown of the top five value signings in free agency, PFF pointed out that Detroit managed to retain him on a “prove-it” deal.
“The Lions get Onwuzurike back on a one-year, ‘prove-it’ deal, as past injuries and inconsistent play likely paved the way for them to be able to re-sign him,” PFF noted. “2024 was Onwuzurike’s healthiest and most productive season to date, and he notched 45 quarterback pressures in the regular season, including a career-high nine in Detroit’s Week 18 win over Minnesota.”
If Onwuzurike can replicate that level of production in 2025—ideally converting more pressures into sacks—he could emerge as one of the biggest steals in the league.
Do the Lions Need More Help?
Some analysts believe Detroit could still use a veteran addition to bolster their pass rush, but the team may feel comfortable with what they already have. With Onwuzurike continuing to develop and Davenport looking to bounce back, the Lions’ defensive front could surprise people next season.
Either way, PFF is clearly impressed with Detroit’s decision to keep Onwuzurike, and if he delivers, the Lions’ gamble will look even smarter.