After working way through free agency checklist, where is the Lions' roster better and where is it worse?
It hasn’t been the splashiest beginning to the offseason for the Detroit Lions. Still, the team has been steadily plugging roster holes since last week’s start of the new league year.
Let’s take a position-by-position look at the roster, recapping the players who were added and those who have departed, while evaluating where the team has improved and where the talent has taken a step back ahead of the draft.
Quarterback
Players added: Teddy Bridgewater (pending)
Players lost: Kyle Allen
After Allen accepted a two-year offer from the Buffalo Bills for approximately double the cap hit he had last season, the Lions needed to pivot to a different backup solution. With aims on contending, Detroit wasn’t looking for a developmental option. They desired an experienced veteran who could provide a second set of eyes for starter Jared Goff during the week of preparation and someone capable of steadying the ship if the typically durable Goff had to miss time.
The solution was bringing back a familiar face. Bridgewater, a 65-game starter, recently spent parts of two seasons with Detroit. Plus, he has familiarity with incoming offensive coordinator Drew Petzing from their overlapping time in Minnesota.
Verdict: Modest upgrade.
Allen was a sufficient backup, looking the part during his lone offseason/preseason with the Lions. However, Bridgewater brings even more experience, proven success and familiarity with Detroit’s personal and coaching staff.
Running back
Players added: Isiah Pacheco
Players lost: David Montgomery