The Detroit Lions are eager for a healthy Marcus Davenport to bolster their defensive line. The team aims to enhance their pass-rushing consistency while maintaining their strong run defense.
If the former Vikings and Saints defensive lineman can stay healthy, he is expected to make an immediate impact on Detroit’s defense. PFF recently identified Davenport as the Lions’ candidate for a bounce-back season in 2024.
“Davenport’s time in Minnesota last year almost feels like a fever dream. The former Saints pass-rusher played just 114 snaps due to a high ankle sprain, and even when he was active, he disappointed,” writes Bradley Locker. “Davenport collected only seven pressures on 77 pass-rushing snaps, and he missed 40% of his tackles.”
The former first-round draft pick had a successful stint with the Saints, but an ankle injury derailed his 2023 season with the Vikings, leading to his placement on injured reserve in Week 6.
“In New Orleans, though, Davenport proved to be a consistently disruptive defensive lineman. He generated 30 or more pressures in each of his first five seasons and especially peaked toward the end of his first contract, with an 88.8 overall grade in 2021,” Locker explained. “The Lions’ defensive line should be formidable this year with Aidan Hutchinson, D.J. Reader, and others, but don’t discount Davenport returning to form and wreaking havoc.”
Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn expressed confidence in Davenport’s pass-rushing abilities during OTA practice, noting his size and aggressive play style.
“Very confident, I know that player. I know what he brings to the table. He’s a big man,” said Glenn. “A big man that can rush, he’s a man that’s very violent the way that we want to play. And I’m excited to really see that player get on the field.”
