The Detroit Lions' victory over the Arizona Cardinals came at a steep price, as they face the rest of the season without defensive end Marcus Davenport due to a severe elbow injury. Coach Dan Campbell broke the news on Monday, revealing that Davenport is likely out for the remainder of the 2024 season after suffering a torn triceps. This injury comes as a colossal blow, especially considering Davenport's critical role in the defensive lineup.
Having signed Davenport in March to a one-year deal worth $7.095 million, the Lions were counting on his defensive prowess to complement star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. Unfortunately, injuries have been a recurring theme in Davenport’s career, limiting his availability significantly. In his five years with the New Orleans Saints, he played in just 63 games. His brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings last season saw him on the field for a mere four games, and this year, his promising start with the Lions was cut short by another setback My Mix FM.
The Lions now face a pressing question: How to replace Davenport’s pass-rushing abilities? According to Alex Reno from Pride of Detroit, the most straightforward solution is to rely on the existing roster. Levi Onwuzurike and Josh Paschal are poised to see more action on the defensive line. Both players have shown flashes of potential, and Campbell might increase James Houston IV’s role as well, especially with linebacker Derrick Barnes also sidelined with a knee injury.
However, Reno suggests the Lions could explore trade options if they feel external reinforcements are necessary. Names like Haason Reddick (NY Jets) and Azeez Ojulari (NY Giants) have surfaced as potential targets, but pulling the trigger on a trade appears to be the less likely route. Free agent options seem rather thin, with former Lion Austin Bryant being one of the more recognizable names available.
The fallout from Davenport’s injury extends beyond his immediate replacement. The Lions are grappling with several other significant injuries. Frank Ragnow is dealing with a torn pectoral muscle, Alim McNeill has a day-to-day shoulder issue, and rookies Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch are nursing an ankle sprain and a concussion, respectively Sporting News.
Despite these setbacks, Campbell remains confident in the depth of his defense. Quoted by WZZM13.com, Campbell said, “We have a lot of depth, and we trust every player. It's going to hurt losing Barnes because he's playing at a high level, but if it has to happen, the linebacker room gives us faith, because all those guys can play.”
With a challenging schedule ahead, including games against Seattle, Dallas, and Minnesota, the Lions will need every bit of that depth. The defense, which has been a stalwart unit thus far, will be crucial in these matchups, especially as the offense finds its rhythm. The Lions' ability to adapt to these injuries will be tested, but with Campbell’s trust in his roster, fans can hold onto hope that the team can weather this storm and continue to build on their 2-1 start.
What other sites are saying about this topic
Lions' Marcus Davenport (triceps) likely to miss rest of season from My Mix FM
Open thread: How should the Lions replace Marcus Davenport? from Alex Reno, Pride Of Detroit
Lions injury updates: Latest news on Detroit's endless list of wounded from Sporting News
Lions lose 2 key defensive players just as they face tough stretch of games from WZZM13.com
Detroit Lions place Derrick Barnes, Marcus Davenport on injured reserve from Detroit Free Press