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Looking to build on their fantastic second half of the 2022 season, the Detroit Lions have been very active in 2023 NFL free agency. They have brought in several key players while also re-signing some of their own.
With a few popular players leaving the franchise, Detroit has made strides to upgrade several positions.
Detroit Lions signings
The Lions have signed former Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery to a three-year, $18 million deal, with $11 million guaranteed. Montgomery rushed for 801 yards and five touchdowns last season, while also catching 34 passes for 316 yards and a touchdown. Jamaal Williams, the team's leader in rushing touchdowns last season, has joined the New Orleans Saints.
Montgomery will complement D'Andre Swift in the backfield and provide a reliable option in short-yardage situations. He has been productive in his NFL career, rushing for over 800 yards in all four seasons. Detroit needed another reliable runner in the backfield, and Montgomery fits the bill.
Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Cameron Sutton has agreed to a three-year deal worth up to $33 million. Sutton recorded three interceptions and 15 pass breakups last season, and his versatility allows him to play on the outside or in the slot.
Sutton will bring much-needed leadership to a cornerback group that struggled last season. Detroit allowed opponents to score 25.12 points per game, tied for third-most in the NFL. Sutton's ability to play multiple positions will also be a huge asset to the defense.
Former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Emmanuel Moseley joined on a one-year, $6 million deal. Moseley had a solid season in 2022 before suffering a season-ending ACL tear in his left knee.
Detroit are aggressively addressing their secondary by adding Moseley to complement Sutton. Moseley brings experience and production to the cornerback group, and his one-year deal is a low-risk move for the Lions.
The Lions have re-signed defensive tackle Isaiah Buggs to a two-year deal worth up to $6 million. Buggs started 13 of 17 games last season and had a sack and a forced fumble, along with 46 total tackles and 10 quarterback hits.
This move shows that the franchise is committed to keeping their core intact. Buggs enjoyed a career-best season in 2022 and is a solid option on the interior of the defensive line.
Detroit has re-signed linebacker Alex Anzalone to a three-year deal. Anzalone was the team's leading tackler last season.
Wide receiver Josh Reynolds has agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $3.25 million. Reynolds will add some depth to the receiving corps, which lost veteran Mohamed Sanu to free agency.
Reynolds played for the Tennessee Titans last season, recording 18 catches for 247 yards and two touchdowns in 12 games. The 27-year-old has shown flashes of potential during his career, but he has yet to establish himself as a consistent threat in the NFL.
Overall, the Detroit Lions have made several smart moves in free agency that should help them be more competitive in the upcoming season with a focus on shoring up their defense.
Notable Detroit Lions departures
Last season's rushing touchdown leader Jamaal Williams has moved on to the Saints and receiver D.J. Chark is the only other notable loss on offense. On the defensive side, Michael Brockers leaving is the biggest name as the Lions look to get younger across the defensive line.
