The Detroit Lions have prioritized their own free agents this offseason, and while they haven't added much to the pass rush externally, key internal pieces have returned.
Perhaps one of the most important moves they made was keeping defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike on a one-year deal. Many thought Onwuzurike could move on with a more lucrative offer elsewhere, but he elected to stick in Detroit with the franchise that drafted him.
Though he plays on the inside at defensive tackle, Onwuzurike flashed as a pass rusher last season for the Lions by necessity. As PFSN pointed out, 63% of snaps from Onwuzurike were taken at edge last year, up from 21% during his first two seasons in the NFL.
The hope for Detroit is that health returns and Onwuzurike doesn't have to spend that much time on the edge this season. After injury forced players into different roles in 2024, it's still possible the Lions may have stumbled into a hidden talent with their defender that they can now use to their advantage.
Levi Onwuzurike trending as a steal for Detroit Lions given pass rush abilities
By the time next season begins, the Lions could have a few new additions along their defensive line to help rush the passer. In Onwuzurike, though, they might already have a quality piece to do that given how effective he was last season.
Not only did Onwuzurike see plenty of time on the edge, but he was able to excel when placed there. According to The 33rd Team, Onwuzurike enjoyed a top 10 pressure rate for a defensive tackle last season. Now, he's set to be paid like a lower-tier tackle in 2025. That combines to make him a potential steal moving forward.
Finding a way to get solid production for less money has been a goal for Brad Holmes during his time in Detroit. In most cases, the general manager has done a great job identifying players who can play specific roles for his roster. On the surface, many will not see Onwuzurike's return as a big deal, but it's clear it can be an advantage for a team that needs to find a pass rush.
If Onwuzurike can pay some of his pressure off in more sacks next season, there's a good chance the Lions will be very happy to have brought him back. It will be something to monitor regardless of any other pass rushers Detroit may add to the mix the rest of the offseason.
