On its own, the Detroit Lions’ choice to re-sign edge rusher Marcus Davenport wasn’t bad. It simply wasn’t particularly impactful, and it suggested the need for another free agent acquisition to tackle the top weakness on the team.
Instead, the Lions followed the signing of Davenport with the release of Za’Darius Smith. General manager Brad Holmes provided the weak justification that “we couldn’t afford it,” clearly referencing the nearly $9 million in bonuses Smith was set to receive early in the league year, as well as future contract extensions that are approaching. However, the opportunity appears to exist for Smith to return, and signing him after the draft would not affect the compensatory draft pick formula. So perhaps it’s just a matter of time. If it were a choice between Davenport and Smith, the Lions made the incorrect decision. With that in mind, head coach Dan Campbell seems to be making a significant effort to remain positive about Davenport.
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