As the NFL scouting combine unfolds and free agency approaches, Detroit Lions fans eagerly anticipate general manager Brad Holmes’ decisions regarding incoming signings and the fate of current players. Among the 29 Lions with expiring contracts, veteran defensive end Marcus Davenport stands out as a player unlikely to return based on his recent struggles and injuries.
Davenport, the 14th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, initially made his mark with the New Orleans Saints and Minnesota Vikings before joining Detroit prior to the 2024 season. His short stint with the Vikings—marked by two sacks in four games—prompted the Lions to offer back-to-back one-year contracts, hoping to harness his pass-rushing ability.
Injury Setbacks and Diminished Performance Cloud Prospects
Unfortunately, Davenport’s time in Detroit has been marred by injuries, beginning with a season-ending triceps tear after just two games in 2024. Despite this, the Lions retained him for the 2025 season, which again proved challenging as a chest injury caused him to miss over two months of action exactly one year after the triceps injury.
While injuries happen to many athletes, Davenport’s contributions on the field have failed to justify continued investment. In eight games last season, he recorded only six solo tackles and a single sack, which occurred during the chest injury sustained in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears. Pro Football Focus data shows Davenport generated just seven pressures over 150 pass-rush snaps, marking his lowest pressure rate in three years.
His pressure rates and pass-rush grades over the last three seasons reveal a stark decline:
2023: 9.1% pressure rate with a 60.1 PFF grade
2024: 11.7% pressure rate paired with a 64.4 grade
2025: 4.7% pressure rate and a 55.8 grade
Such numbers point to dwindling productivity, especially when considering Davenport’s absence from an average of over 12 games across the past three seasons. He has yet to complete a full NFL season and will turn 30 at the start of the upcoming year, intensifying concerns about his durability and future impact.
Why the Lions Should Move On From Davenport Despite Pass-Rushing Needs
Detroit’s need for pass-rush support — especially to complement star Aidan Hutchinson — is acute, but re-signing Davenport would likely do more harm than good. According to Spotrac, his projected market value is $1.9 million, which, while affordable, may be too costly for a player who is expected to miss significant time and occupy a roster spot without consistent production.
Despite nostalgic hopes to see Davenport replicate his early-career success, all indicators suggest his peak years are behind him. The Lions would be better served allowing the injury-laden veteran to seek opportunities elsewhere, while dedicating free agency and draft resources to finding more reliable pass-rushing help for the 2026 campaign.
Though difficult for fans and for Davenport himself, this decision reflects the often ruthless nature of NFL roster management where performance and availability dictate longevity.
