Report: First-round defensive lineman showing “interest” in the Lions.
Marcus Davenport is a defensive back that the Detroit Lions have already signed in NFL free agency. However, Arik Armstead, another seasoned defensive lineman, may be in the Lions’ sights.
On March 13, NFL source Aaron Wilson revealed that three clubs, including the Lions, have shown interest in the seasoned defensive tackle.
Wilson said on X (previously Twitter) that “Texas among teams including Bengals and Lions with interest in Arik Armstead who hasn’t been released officially yet.”
Armstead has been a member of the San Francisco 49ers for his whole nine-year career. In 2023, he recorded five sacks, four tackles for loss, and thirteen quarterback hits.
On March 10, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area revealed that Armstead was asked by the 49ers to accept a “significant” salary reduction for the 2024 campaign. But Armstead turned him down.
For the 2024 season, Armstead’s cap hit under his current contract is $28.35 million. Maiocco stated that the 49ers will probably cut the seasoned defensive tackle as a result of that cap hit.
Armstead has accumulated 302 total tackles in 116 games played, with 43 tackles for loss. In addition, he has 33.5 sacks, 6 pass defenses, 3 forced fumbles, and 88 quarterback hits.
What the Lions Could Get from DT Arik Armstead
Armstead has played defensive tackle and defensive end in the past. NFL teams will find that versatility appealing when it comes to free agency.
However, Armstead is most likely seen by the Lions in Detroit as an addition at defensive tackle. The 26-year-old defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike is a need for the Lions to upgrade. In ten games the previous season, he only had five combined tackles and one sack.
In Davenport, the Lions have already upgraded at defensive end.
