NFL salary cap rises to record $224.8 million, Lions rank 13th in cap space
ALLEN PARK -- The salary cap is rising to an NFL-record $224.8 million next season, according to multiple reports. Detroit has roughly $211 million worth of commitments on the books for 2023, leaving the club with roughly $13.8 million in cap space heading into the offseason. Kalif Raymond, he was the right guy. Charles Harris, he’s the right guy. It’s not that it was just a prove-it one-year deal, but it was the right guy.
mlive.comAsk Kyle: What should the Detroit Lions do at the top of the NFL draft?
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions were one of hottest teams in professional football down the stretch. Not what you would do, not what you think the Lions should do, but rather what will the Lions do if there is a QB at No. As for the draft, I think everything is on the table in the first round, including a quarterback at No. With very good things expected for the team next season, Detroit should be more desired in free agency than it has been in a very, very long time. He has a cap hit of $8 million next season, and Detroit would save about $4 million by moving on.
mlive.comAll 17 of the Detroit Lions’ impending unrestricted free agents, ranked
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions’ free-agent approach under Brad Holmes has been straightforward. The general manager has offered a slew of one-year contracts to prove-it players that avoided long-term financial exposure, while focusing most of his resources into bringing back the internal free agents he likes and trusts the most. Last year, that meant guys like Tracy Walker and Charles Harris. The year before that, it was Romeo Okwara.
mlive.comDetroit Lions don’t plan to drift far from selective approach to free agency
ALLEN PARK -- Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes has taken a “selective and strategic” approach to free agency through his two first offseasons. “We’re always going to be very strategic and selective with our approach,” Holmes said. But we were very selective about who were the right guys and being very selective about, ‘all right, Alex Anzalone, he’s the right guy. And we’ll continue that same play.”Related: Lions GM Brad Holmes’ wide-ranging year-end press conference: Live updates recapRelated: RB Jamaal Williams says he wants to re-sign with Detroit Lions, as only he canWe’ve got a Detroit Lions newsletter! We’ll email you your Detroit Lions news five days a week.
mlive.comSnap counts, PFF grades: Jameson Williams flashes elite speed with larger role
And the rookie’s increased role was foretold by Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell, with Williams playing it cool ahead of the game. The analytics site had the Lions with 13 missed tackles last week in Carolina, not to mention 15 missed tackles the first time they faced these Bears. Detroit’s defense was docked with six missed tackles, which is a step in the right direction. Swift graded above 90 for the first time, adding 54 yards after contact and forcing six missed tackles. Williams had 107 yards after contact, forcing five missed tackles, one of the best showings of his career.
mlive.comLions reward rookie James Houston with spot on 53-man roster; Charles Harris to IR
Now he’s suffered another, and it just might cost him his season. The good news is the arrival of rookie James Houston, who was signed to replace Harris on the 53-man roster. And what a debut it was, racking up two sacks, something no Lions rookie had ever done. “You just ask Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker about James Houston, and the looks that they’re getting. “There will be a place for James Houston here in the future, I believe.”
mlive.comDetroit Lions without both starting guards, 3 key defenders for Thanksgiving
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions will be without their starting offensive guards -- top four overall -- and key defenders Charles Harris (groin), Jeff Okudah (concussion protocol) and Josh Paschal (knee) on Thanksgiving. The Lions are already without guards Halapoulivaati Vaitai (back) and Tommy Kraemer (back), so things are tough on the interior of their stout offensive line. Awosika has logged eight offensive snaps since landing in Detroit. Skipper has allowed 16 pressures and two sacks across 289 offensive snaps. Awosika hasn’t seen much action, with eight offensive snaps, including one as an extra tight end on the season.
mlive.comLions without all 3 interior offensive linemen as they kick off Thanksgiving week
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions’ offensive line is in rough shape heading into the short week. Center Frank Ragnow (toe) and guards Evan Brown (ankle) and Jonah Jackson (illness) were all listed as “out” on an estimated injury report that was issued Monday. Detroit did not actually practice, but had to file a report anyway with the Thanksgiving matchup against Buffalo looming just three days away. Cornerback Jeff Okuidah (brain), defensive end Charles Harris (groin), pass rusher Josh Paschal (knee) and receiver Josh Reynolds (back) also were “out” according to the report. Whether he’s close enough to actually make it back on the short week remains very much to be seen.
mlive.comLive updates: Lions go for first 3-game winning streak since 2017 against Giants
Golladay, the former Lions receiver, hasn’t caught a pass since Week 1. --The Detroit Lions (3-6) are back on the road, with a chance to win their third straight and second consecutive game away from home against the New York Giants (7-2) in Week 11. This post will update with drive summaries, analysis, injury updates, photos, pregame updates and more. Related headlines and team stats:Detroit Lions at New York Giants: 3 burning questions ahead of Week 11Detroit Lions at New York Giants: Fantasy guide and key matchups for Week 11Detroit Lions not sleeping on Giants QB Daniel Jones’ dual-threat abilityLions know Giants will try to wear them down with star RB Saquon BarkleyDungeon of Doom: ‘Get! Down!’ Reliving Lions’ game-sealing sack in Chicago2022 TEAM STATSDVOA offensive ranking: Lions 13th | Giants 15thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 26th | Giants 24thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 6.9 (6th) | Giants 5.4 (29th)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 4.8 (11th) | Giants 4.8 (10th)Points per game: Lions 24.3 (9th) | Giants 20.8 (22nd)Points allowed per game: Lions 29.3 (32nd) | Giants 19.2 (9th)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 7.4 (32nd) | Giants 6.1 (15th)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 5.3 (30th) | Giants 5.5 (32nd)Takeaways: Lions 10 | Giants 12
mlive.comLions’ Charles Harris ruled out against Giants, yet another setback in tough year
ALLEN PARK -- Charles Harris saved his career by signing with Detroit. The pass rusher’s difficult season just suffered another setback, after suffering another groin injury in practice that will cost him another game. He won’t play on Sunday against the New York Giants, after missing three games with another groin injury earlier in the season. It has been a huge fall for Harris, a former first-round bust who enjoyed a career year after signing with the Lions last season. The Lions have also ruled out fellow pass rusher Josh Paschal because of a knee injury.
mlive.comLions’ Frank Ragnow expected to play against Giants; Charles Harris hurt again
ALLEN PARK -- While the Detroit Lions are playing the waiting game with injured wideouts DJ Chark and Josh Reynolds, they are already confident they’ll have All-Pro center Frank Ragnow for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants. We are, yep.”After some hard injury luck to open the season, the Lions are inching toward a better place. D’Andre Swift came off the injury report last week (although remained a secondary option in the offense) before Chark and Reynolds both returned to practice this week. Chark has missed the last six games with ankle trouble, while Reynolds has missed the last two games after his back locked up during practice. “He’s gotten a little bit better every day, but there again, it’s kind of wait and see with him,” Campbell said.
mlive.comLions expect 3 defenders back at practice, open FB Jason Cabinda’s 21-day window
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions expect to start working some defensive reinforcements back at Tuesday’s practice while opening the 21-day window for fullback Jason Cabinda. The second-year Lions head coach said earlier this week he regretted giving Swift as much work as he did last weekend. But Campbell had a more optimistic viewpoint the next day, saying, “I do think he feels better now.”“But we’ll gauge that today,” Campbell said. He’s going to get more on his plate now. We think he’s going to be ready for that.
mlive.comLive updates: Detroit Lions try to snap 4-game losing streak against Dolphins
PregameLions inactives: DL Michael Brockers, S DeShon Elliott, DE Charles Harris, CB Mike Hughes, CB Chase Lucas, S Ifeatu Melifonwu, OL Matt NelsonDolphins inactives: RB Myles Gaskin, WR Erik Ezukanma, QB Skylar Thompson, S Eric Rowe, WR River Cracraft--DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions (1-5) look to snap their four-game losing streak while trying for the team’s first touchdown since before the bye against the Miami Dolphins (4-3) in Week 8 action from Ford Field. This post will update with drive summaries, analysis, injury updates, photos, pregame updates and more. Hit refresh to keep up and follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. Also, head over to MLive’s Facebook account after the game for an in-depth breakdown. Related headlines and team stats:Detroit Lions vs. Miami Dolphins: 3 burning questions ahead of Week 8How to watch Lions vs. Dolphins: Live stream, TV channel, kickoff timeLions sign K Michael Badgley to 53-man roster, elevate 2 receivers from practice squad2022 TEAM STATSDVOA offensive ranking: Lions 15th | Dolphins 6thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 31st | Dolphins 20thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 6.7 (9th) | Dolphins 7.3 (3rd)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 5.3 (4th) | Dolphins 3.9 (25th)Points per game: Lions 24.3 (9th) | Dolphins 21 (19th)Points allowed per game: Lions 32.3 (32nd) | Dolphins 23.6 (23rd)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 7.3 (32nd) | Dolphins 6.8 (24th)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 5.3 (30th) | Dolphins 4.2 (11th)Takeaways: Lions 5 | Dolphins 7
mlive.comLions down 8 players at practice; WR Amon-Ra St. Brown in red no-contact jersey
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions were without eight players at Wednesday’s practice, with wideout Amon-Ra St. Brown participating in a red no-contact jersey. “Swift will practice today, and then Saint is moving right along,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said before practice. Lions head coach Dan Campbell said he cleared testing but was ruled out by the video evidence. St. Brown looked disoriented after taking the hit. “But it’s, he’s in the protocol just to go through the process of it,” the second-year head coach said on Monday.
mlive.comLive updates: Detroit Lions on the road to face Dallas Cowboys after bye week
PregameLook out for CB Jerry Jacobs (season debut) and second-round DL Josh Paschal (NFL debut) today. This post will update with drive summaries, analysis, injury updates, photos, pregame updates and more. Hit refresh to keep up and follow MLive’s Detroit Lions reporters on Twitter -- @BenjaminSRaven and @kmeinke. Also, head over to MLive’s Facebook account after the game for an in-depth breakdown. 2022 TEAM STATSDVOA offensive ranking: Lions 9th | Cowboys 17thDVOA defensive ranking: Lions 32nd | Cowboys 6thNet yards gained per passing attempt: Lions 6.7 (8th) | Cowboys 5.6 (25th)Rushing yards per attempt: Lions 5.4 (2nd) | Cowboys 4.3 (19th)Points per game: Lions 28 (3rd) | Cowboys 18.3 (23rd)Points allowed per game: Lions 34 (32nd) | Cowboys 16.3 (3rd)Net yards allowed per passing attempt: Lions 7.4 (31st) | Cowboys 4.7 (3rd)Rushing yards allowed per attempt: Lions 5.5 (30th) | Cowboys 4.4 (17th)Takeaways: Lions 4 | Cowboys 7
mlive.comHow to watch Lions at Cowboys: Live stream, TV channel, kickoff time
The Detroit Lions (1-4) are back from their bye week for a Week 7 trip to face the Dallas Cowboys (4-2) and returning quarterback Dak Prescott. Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys: Fantasy guide and key matchups for Week 7This post serves as a fantasy guide while running through matchups to watch, team stats and the series history between the Lions and Cowboys. Detroit Lions draw Dallas Cowboys’ disruptive pass rush fresh off bye weekMicah Parsons has continued to look like one of the most feared defenders in football. Lions’ Dan Campbell says owner Sheila Ford Hamp remains ‘all in’ despite frustration“I would say that she understands. Lions DT Levi Onwuzurike undergoes ‘last resort’ back surgery, season is overThe former second-round pick is trending dangerously toward bust territory.
mlive.comWR Josh Reynolds returns to Detroit Lions practice
ALLEN PARK -- Josh Reynolds returned to practice on Friday, giving him a shot to play when the Detroit Lions return from their bye on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. Reynolds is the Lions’ leading receiver with 335 yards this season, despite playing through an ankle injury for the better part of a month. Then sustained in a knee injury in the shutout loss against New England two weeks ago, and was unavailable to practice when Detroit returned from the bye this week. But he squeezed in a limited day of practice as Detroit wrapped up preparations for the Cowboys on Friday, a huge lift for a team that remains without top free-agent receiver DJ Chark (ankle). And every day we’ll continue to check, the doctors and everything will continue to check and I talk with him.
mlive.comDJ Chark, Josh Reynolds among whopping 9 players not practicing coming out of bye
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions said the bye week came at the perfect time for them. Starting receivers DJ Chark and Josh Reynolds were among a whopping nine players not participating in practice on Wednesday, Detroit’s first since the bye. The rest of the absences suggest Detroit remains beat up despite getting the extra week of rest. Concern is beginning to grow for Chark, who has missed the last two games because of discomfort in his surgically-repaired ankle. Running back D’Andre Swift (shoulder/ankle) and defensive lineman John Cominksy (wrist) also were practicing for the first time in weeks.
mlive.comAmani Oruwariye benched by Lions in New England, Amon-Ra St. Brown active
-- Amani Oruwariye has been benched in New England, a stunning development for a veteran cornerback who once looked like he might cash in when his contract expires at the end of the season. He will watch the Detroit Lions fight for their season in street clothes, a healthy inactive for the first time since his rookie year. That also means receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is making his return to the field in New England. The fourth-year veteran was coming off a six-pick campaign last season, and eyed a big payday headed into a contract year. The Lions are dressing a handful of guys from the practice squad instead of Oruwariye, including signing cornerback A.J.
mlive.comLions lose Charles Harris from struggling defense; Amon-Ra St. Brown questionable
Edge defender Charles Harris has been officially ruled out to play against the Patriots because of a groin injury he sustained in practice on Thursday. He becomes the third Lions player to miss a game because of an injury he sustained in practice, all of them linemen. The good news is help is on the way at receiver, where Amon-Ra St. Brown has been upgraded to questionable. So was Pro Bowl guard Jonah Jackson, who hasn’t played since the opener because of a finger injury he sustained in practice. “Any time you can get a player like (St. Brown) back, it helps from production but also just what he brings,” head coach Dan Campbell said.
mlive.comSnap counts, PFF grades: Lions’ Alim McNeill flashes pass-rush chops with increased role
The Detroit Lions have talked about finding new ways to use interior defender Alim McNeill, especially after adding beef to the rotation in Isaiah Buggs and Benito Jones. McNeill saw an increase in snaps during Detroit’s 28-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings in Week 3. Aidan Hutchinson’s snaps dipped while dealing with his thigh/quad injury, with the prized rookie still seeing 79% of the defensive work. Jones played 13 snaps while Buggs handled much of the work inside with McNeill moving around. The Lions averaged 4 yards per carry and didn’t allow a sack, while Jared Goff ate only two hits.
mlive.comWhat’s being said nationally after short-handed Detroit Lions beat Commanders 36-27
DETROIT -- The Detroit Lions were without three starters on the offensive line and veteran cornerback Amani Oruwariye during their 36-27 win over the Washington Commanders in Week 2. But quarterback Jared Goff, receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and running back D’Andre Swift continued to come up in big spots while holding off the Commanders. Goff completed 20 of 34 passes for 256 yards and four touchdowns. St. Brown had a big day, with nine catches for 116 yards and two touchdowns, adding two carries for 68 yards. Swift did more than enough while playing through an ankle injury, with 56 rushing yards and 31 receiving yards and one highly entertaining catch-fall-and-run touchdown.
mlive.comHalftime analysis: Aidan Hutchinson’s 3 sacks help lead Lions’ annihilation of Commanders in first half
DETROIT -- Aidan Hutchinson didn’t have a sack in the first game of the season. The second overall pick is the first rookie in Lions history with a three-sack game. By then, Detroit was averaging 7.7 yards per play, had scored five times and racked up 244 yards of total offense. Especially considering Detroit is without three-fifths of its offensive line, which is supposed to be the strength of the team. The Lions said they were better than what they showed in the season-opening loss to the Eagles.
mlive.comDetroit Lions prepare for tough task of dual-threat Eagles QB Jalen Hurts in Week 1
ALLEN PARK -- Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has proven himself as one of the top dual-threat options in the league. Hurts burnt the Detroit Lions for a team-leading 71 yards in Philadelphia’s 44-6 blowout win at Ford Field last season, too. “I mean, that was the first time really having a mobile quarterback,” Lions edge defender Charles Harris told MLive. It’s worth covering those preseason results because the Lions don’t have a mobile quarterback to deploy in practice. A whole bunch of different, the play after the play really with those guys, right?
mlive.comLions’ Charles Harris ready to form destructive duo with Aidan Hutchinson
One of the reasons behind the lack of attention thrown Harris’ way is the arrival of prized rookie edge defender Aidan Hutchinson. The Lions signed Harris to that new deal worth $13 million in free agency, then took Hutchinson at Pick 2 in April’s draft. Harris and Hutchinson have shared some moments as seen on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” series following the team through camp. On and off the field, he’s just a great teammate, great individual,” Harris said about Hutchinson on Monday. The second-year head coach was caught on “Hard Knocks” saying that the way Harris attacks drills lets him know what he will get on Sundays.
mlive.comDetroit Lions claim beefy defensive tackle Benito Jones off waivers from Dolphins
ALLEN PARK -- Aidan Hutchinson and Charles Harris have been productive on the edge of the Detroit Lions’ defense this summer. On Wednesday, he got it after the Lions put in a successful waiver claim for former Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Benito Jones. He signed with the Dolphins as UDFA, but spent most of the season on the practice squad. He spent last season on the Dolphins’ practice squad, then was cut coming out of camp this year. Behind starting defensive tackles Alim McNeill and Michael Brockers, the club kept John Cominsky, Levi Onwuzurike, Isaiah Buggs and Demetrius Taylor on its initial 53-man roster.
mlive.comObservations: Penei Sewell drills Jeff Okudah, stands out as Lions’ best player in padded drills
On a day where they played the closest thing to real football since January, Sewell looked like the best player on that field, period. One-on-one drills always favor the defensive line, but that first-team offensive line went undefeated in their nine reps on Monday. I think he’s a really good player, he’s super high effort all the time and I think as Aidan learns, you can see him grow, too. But then they strapped on pads for their next practice, and Sewell dominated. Then he opened it up with a bomb to Josh Reynolds, who had a step on Jeff Okudah.
mlive.comTraining camp observations: Top draft pick Aidan Hutchinson promoted to Lions’ first-team defense
ALLEN PARK -- All eyes were on Aidan Hutchinson as training camp got underway this week. That allowed him to learn from watching veterans like Charles Harris, another former first-round pick who bombed out in Miami. On the first day the Lions opened the doors to Organized Team Activities, Hutchinson wrecked the backups for back-to-back-to-back sacks during 2-minute drills. “I’m excited to see him once we get into training camp and he gets into games for us.”Through two days of training camp, there hasn’t been much to see. He’s moving well, he’s making plays, he’s looking like Jeff, you know what I’m saying?
mlive.comLions’ Charles Harris focused on proving last year’s breakout was no fluke
ALLEN PARK -- Charles Harris was one of the true feel-good stories for the Detroit Lions last season. And despite the investment and comfort added to his life, Harris said his mentality hasn’t changed and that he remains in prove-it mode. I’m going to approach every single day, every single practice like it’s my last. Like I said, it’s nothing like major that’s different, but there are some technique things that are different. That’s all part of the game.”Before the team broke for summer, Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn pointed to Harris as someone to watch for another breakout.
mlive.comDetroit Lions training camp preview: Somebody is going to need to rise at linebacker
Detroit’s coaching staff has maintained they expect fierce competition at the position to help some of the cream rise to the top in training camp. “So there is competition in that room,” Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn said. He had never played more than 48% of his team’s defensive snaps before 2021, then saw 76% of the action across 17 games. He played three seasons of linebacker at Florida, then excelled with a switch to a pass-rusher role at Jackson State. Roster projection: LB Alex Anzalone, LB Derrick Barnes, LB Chris Board, LB Malcolm Rodriguez, LB Jarrad Davis, OLB Charles Harris, OLB James Houston
mlive.comLions top pick Aidan Hutchinson: ‘I’m going to be dominant as a football player’
ALLEN PARK -- Aidan Hutchinson played his high school ball at Dearborn Divine Child, which is, oh, about 7 miles down the road from Detroit Lions headquarters. “If you’re a really good football player, you’re going to be able to be a great player in any scheme,” he said. “I know in every scheme I’m going to be dominant as a football player.”Hutchinson doesn’t lack for confidence, that’s for sure, and nor should he. I’m just going to continue to learn and grow every single day I’m out here. I’m screwing up, but it’s OK because that’s kind of what it takes to take that next step.”
mlive.com4 Detroit Lions players on the hot seat after NFL draft
The Lions’ rookie class is well-regarded around the league too. Here’s a look at four players whose seats have heated up coming out of the NFL draft. Barring injury, Benson looks like he’s headed for the practice squad, if he’s still in Detroit at all. Last season, Harris was even worse. As Harris enters the final year of his rookie deal, his future in Detroit has never been more unclear.
mlive.comESPN’s Todd McShay gets Detroit Lions a disruptor, quarterback and safety in 2-round mock draft
ESPN’s Todd McShay doesn’t think the Detroit Lions should take a quarterback at Pick 2. McShay has Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson to the Jacksonville Jaguars to get things started, then sent Georgia’s Travon Walker to Detroit. McShay then sends Cincinnati quarterback Desmond Ridder to the Lions at Pick 32. McShay then sends Michigan defensive back Daxton Hill to Detroit at Pick 34 at the top of Round 2. “Hill probably belongs in the first round, but the Lions get lucky with the smooth, speedy safety on Day 2,” McShay writes.
mlive.comLions GM Brad Holmes: ‘We haven’t totally closed the door’ on signing DE Arden Key
Defensive lineman Arden Key took a free-agent visit to Detroit last week, and while he left town without a deal, the Lions haven’t shut the door on the former 49ers pass rusher either. “We’ll just see where it goes,” Holmes said this week at the NFL owners meetings in Palm Beach, Fla. “We haven’t totally closed the door on that. They finished 29th in sacks last season, then cut loose former top pass rusher Trey Flowers this month. The Lions are expected to target a pass rusher early in the draft, and perhaps even with the No. They can get to the quarterback in a lot of different ways, but I do think that they can all be different.”
mlive.comDetroit Lions re-signing QB David Blough too, while Jalen Reeves-Maybin leaves for Texans payday
The Detroit Lions are also re-signing quarterback David Blough, according to ESPN. Blough is the seventh player Detroit has re-signed in the last week, and the second quarterback, joining fellow backup Tim Boyle. That includes big extensions for safety Tracy Walker (three years, $25 million) and pass rusher Charles Harris (two years, $14 million). The only player Detroit has lost in free agency is Jalen Reeves-Maybin, a special teams standout who just agreed to a two-year deal with Houston that is worth $7.5 million and includes $5 million in guarantees. With Reeves-Maybin out in Detroit, the book is closed on the Lions’ 2017 draft class.
mlive.comReport: Detroit Lions re-signing breakout pass rusher Charles Harris to 2-year deal
The Detroit Lions continue to take care of their own to start free agency. The NFL Network reports Detroit is re-signing breakout pass rusher Charles Harris to a two-year deal worth $14 million. “He had his best year, in my opinion,” Lions general manager Brad Holmes said of Harris after the season. “The Lions, in general, Detroit, the team, the city, it just embodies myself,” Harris said in the interview. Related headlines:There’s a lot to like about the Detroit Lions signing WR D.J.
mlive.comWhat’s being said nationally after Jaguars’ spending, Christian Kirk’s payday highlight start of free agency
The first day of free agency negotiations is well underway, and quite a bit of money has been sent around to get the week started. Quandre Diggs re-signed with the Seattle Seahawks for a reported $40 million deal over three seasons. The agreement includes a $20 million signing bonus, and the salary goes from $1.5 million to $15.5 million in Year 2. This post will continue to update as more signings and happenings occur:2022 NFL free agency tracker: Latest signings, trades, contract info for all 32 teams -- NFL.comCould Baker Mayfield get traded? Hilton: I’m A Free Agent, So If You Want Me, Come Get Me -- Pro Football TalkJacksonville Jaguars make free agency splash, land Brandon Scherff, Christian Kirk -- Florida Times-UnionPackers Re-Signing All-Pro Linebacker De’Vondre Campbell -- Sports IllustratedJaguars’ free agency moves point toward Aidan Hutchinson at No.
mlive.comDetroit Lions free agency preview: Von Miller, Chandler Jones highlight deep market for edge rushers
This is the final of a seven-part series previewing the Detroit Lions’ positional needs heading into free agency. After a breakout season on a one-year deal in Detroit, Charles Harris is a free agent. And while those two should remain the top two options at Pick 2 no matter what happens in free agency. Von Miller, Chandler Jones, Jadeveon Clowney, Randy Gregory, Hasson Reddick and Emmanuel Ogbah highlight a deep edge rusher market. Jones started 17 games last season while posting 56 tackles, 10 for loss, two sacks and two forced fumbles.
mlive.com2022 NFL combine: Edge rushers not named Aidan or Kayvon the Detroit Lions could be eyeing
INDIANAPOLIS -- Most of the talk concerning the Detroit Lions and their interest in adding talent to the defensive edges has understandably focused on Aidan Hutchinson and Kayvon Thibodeaux. The veteran defender and team-voted captain has a cap hit of $23.2 million for 2022 and $23.6 million for 2023. The edge defender lauded for his power notched 29 tackles for loss and 14 sacks in 26 games across three seasons. He then went off for 12 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and five forced fumbles in 2021. And it’s really a good thing that you can do all of that, play defensive end at the University of Georgia.
mlive.comDetroit Lions 2021 review: Alim McNeill shows promise inside; EDGE Charles Harris makes himself some money
Previous entries: Quarterbacks | Running backs | Wide receivers | Tight ends | Offensive lineDEFENSIVE LINE/EDGE DEFENDERSStarters: EDGE Trey Flowers, EDGE Romeo Okwara, DL Nick Williams, DL Michael Brockers, NT Alim McNeillBackups: EDGE Charles Harris, EDGE Julian Okwara, EDGE Austin Bryant, EDGE Rashod Berry, EDGE Jessie Lemonier, DL Levi Onwuzurike, DL Jashon Cornell, NT John Penisini, DL Bruce HectorKey stats: Charles Harris led the team with 7.5 sacks and 52 pressures. The third-round rookie even got in the mix getting after the quarterback, flashing that size-athleticism combo that had many excited. It allowed Charles Harris to come in and enjoy a career-best campaign while putting the pass rush on his back. Harris had only 6.5 sacks and 81 pressures through his first four years in the league. The former first-round pick exploded for 7.5 sacks and 52 pressures through only seven starts after signing a one-year deal.
mlive.comAsk Kyle: 10 foundational players the Lions already have in place, and where work is left to be done
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions did a lot of good work this past season. Everyone needs good glue, and the Lions have a lot of guys who could fit that kind of role for a contender. But I just don’t think he’s the answer for the rebuild. I love these guys, especially Jacobs, but I’m scared they have “empty” stats and they would be bench players on a good team. Anyway, I don’t think so.
mlive.com2022 NFL draft: 5 edge defenders to watch for the Detroit Lions
There is a definite need at edge rusher in Detroit, with questions concerning Trey Flowers and Charles Harris. We’ll do ourselves a favor and separate the edge defenders and interior defensive linemen for this year’s position previews. Today will focus on five edge players, with next week’s taking the big guys on the inside:Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, MichiganYou’ve heard of this guy, right? Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, OregonKayvon Thibodeaux is right up there with Hutchinson in the discussion for the top-two picks. Carson Wells, EDGE, ColoradoCarson Wells has 29.5 tackles for loss through his last 18 games, adding 11.5 sacks in that span.
mlive.comDungeon of Doom podcast: Breaking down Lions GM Brad Holmes’ season-ending news conference
The Dungeon of Doom is back with a season-capping special episode, offering highlights and observations from Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes’ year-end press conference. -- Charles Harris and Tracy Walker are the team’s top in-house free agents, with Brad Holmes calling each a fit for what they’re looking for in players. Holmes runs through the story of Dan Campbell coming to his office to discuss taking over playcalling duties. -- Holmes talks about past experiences from the Senior Bowl, which should have Lions fans feeling optimistic heading into draft season. Dungeon of Doom podcast: Jack Fox was living on friend’s floor months before record-setting Lions seasonDungeon of Doom podcast: Graham Glasgow talks leaving Detroit, working out with Michigan’s Aidan HutchinsonDungeon of Doom podcast: Dan Miller, voice of the Detroit Lions, looks ahead and talks favorite callsLetter from the Editor: Why start a Lions podcast now?
mlive.comNFL free agency: GM Brad Holmes says Tracy Walker, Charles Harris are fits for Lions
“Tracy had already been with us obviously, but a new scheme, a new regime, new coaching staff, and he responded well here, he really did. Walker has sidestepped questions about his intentions for free agency, but has been clear about his love and respect for the new coaching staff in Detroit. “I love my coaching staff,” he said. But I love this coaching staff, I love this locker room, I love this group of men surrounding me. With high-priced rushers like Trey Flowers and Romeo Okwara injured most of the season, Harris stepped into a starting role and led the team in sacks (7.5) and quarterback hits (10).
mlive.comLions GM Brad Holmes not talking Trey Flowers’ future while calling him ‘the ultimate glue guy’
ALLEN PARK -- The future of Trey Flowers is one of the most pressing issues facing general manager Brad Holmes and the Detroit Lions heading into the offseason. On top of that, Lions general manager Brad Holmes gave the veteran defender some props for being “the ultimate glue guy” despite shying away from discussing his future with the team. “Yeah, you know Trey, you’re talking about the ultimate glue guy, ultimate leader,” Holmes said Tuesday. Okwara notched two sacks in the season finale against the Packers while starting for the first time of his career. Related headlines:Live updates recap: Detroit Lions GM Brad Holmes holds year-end press conference after first seasonDetroit Lions coaching staff selected for the 2022 Senior BowlRomeo Okwara moving more at this stage of Achilles recovery, motivated to get back for Detroit Lions2022 NFL draft: Top 18 picks set, Detroit Lions hold No.
mlive.comRe-signing Tracy Walker ‘absolutely’ a priority for Detroit Lions
ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions want safety Tracy Walker back next season. But once he gets around to it in the offseason, the decision on Walker will be a big one. And the one thing he’s done, he’s bought into everything that we’re trying to get done in this defense as far as a safety’s perspective, and he’s grown. He’s grown in that, and he’s also become a leader as far as linebackers, as far as getting everybody together and watching some tape. Again, they are one of the captains of our team because of the communication we ask them to do, and he’s going to continue to grow.
mlive.comHow to watch Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks: Everything you need to know heading into Week 17
The Detroit Lions (2-12-1) have two games left on the slate, with their last road trip of the year next, drawing the Seattle Seahawks (5-10) in Week 17 action. Both teams have been eliminated from the postseason, with this being Seattle’s first season with double-digit losses under coach Pete Carroll. Detroit Lions elevate 5 practice squad players ahead of Seahawks gameJosh Reynolds was not activated on Saturday as expected. Still, the Lions announced the elevation of five practice squad player, with three of those serving as COVID replacements. Sometimes, I think you forget until you’re where we’re at in Week 17 and when you see an athlete like Swift that’s fresh, it’s a sight for sore eyes.
mlive.comDungeon of Doom podcast: Charles Harris chats impending free agency amid breakout season in Detroit
ALLEN PARK -- The Dungeon of Doom podcast welcomes Charles Harries, the Detroit Lions edge defender enjoying a true breakout season after being labeled a first-round bust after his first four years in the league. Harris has career highs in sacks (7.5), quarterback pressures (51), tackles for loss (10), forced fumbles (two), tackles (61), snaps played (744) and games started (12). Hosts Kyle Meinke and Ben Raven also dive deeper into the conversation surrounding Lions quarterback Jared Goff and his hot play and whether it changes his long-term future in Detroit. -- Harris talks about the scheme and his relationship with defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. Dungeon of Doom podcast: Jack Fox was living on friend’s floor months before record-setting Lions seasonDungeon of Doom podcast: Graham Glasgow talks leaving Detroit, working out with Michigan’s Aidan HutchinsonDungeon of Doom podcast: Dan Miller, voice of the Detroit Lions, looks ahead and talks favorite callsLetter from the Editor: Why start a Lions podcast now?
mlive.comAgent: WR Perriman agrees to $3M, 1-year contract with Lions
Perriman's father, Bret, was a standout receiver for the Lions in the 1990s. Defensive end Charles Harris agreed to terms with Detroit, according to a person familiar with the situation. AdLast week, the Lions signed veteran receiver Tyrell Williams after he was released by the Las Vegas Raiders. Perriman had 30 receptions for 505 yards and three touchdowns with the New York Jets last season, his fifth in the NFL. AdThe Lions re-signed defensive end Romeo Okwara to a $39 million, three-year contract.
Ryan, Falcons avenge earlier loss to Panthers, 25-17
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan gets sacked by Atlanta Falcons linebacker Foye Oluokun during the first half of an NFL football game Thursday, Oct. 29, 2020, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)CHARLOTTE, N.C. – This time, the Atlanta Falcons finished. Carolina was driving late, but Atlanta stopped the rally when Blidi Wreh-Wilson intercepted Teddy Bridgewater near the Falcons' 10-yard line with 1:04 remaining. Moore on third and 18 to move the Panthers into Falcons territory. Bridgewater was limited to 176 yards passing as the Panthers (3-5) lost their third straight game without injured Christian McCaffrey. UP NEXTFalcons: Host the Broncos on Nov. 8Panthers: Open the second half of the season at the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs on Nov. 8.