The Detroit Lions Have Signed Marcus Davenport

What does this mean for the Lions and Buccaneers?

The Detroit Lions have signed former New Orleans Saints defensive end Marcus Davenport to a one-year contract, the team announced Monday. Davenport, 26, was released by the Saints last week after four seasons with the team.

Davenport was a first-round pick of the Saints in 2018 and has 22.5 sacks in 55 career games. He has also forced five fumbles and recovered two.

The Lions are hoping that Davenport can provide a boost to their pass rush, which was one of the worst in the NFL last season. Davenport has the potential to be a disruptive force off the edge, and he could help the Lions generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

How does this affect the Buccaneers?

The Buccaneers are now without their top two pass rushers from last season. Shaq Barrett was released earlier this offseason, and Jason Pierre-Paul is still a free agent.

The Buccaneers are expected to address their pass rush in the NFL Draft, but they could also look to sign a veteran free agent. Some potential targets include Melvin Ingram, Justin Houston, and Ezekiel Ansah.

What are the expectations for Davenport in Detroit?

The Lions are hoping that Davenport can be a key contributor to their defense in 2023. He is expected to start opposite Aidan Hutchinson, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Davenport has the potential to be a Pro Bowl player, but he has also struggled with injuries throughout his career. If he can stay healthy, he could be a major asset to the Lions' defense.