The Detroit Lions have put an emphasis on addressing their needs on the defensive side of the ball in free agency. Fortunately, their direct pipeline to the New England Patriots has helped pay huge dividends.
According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, the Lions have signed former Patriots defensive tackle Danny Shelton to a two-year, $8 million deal:
Former Pats’ defensive lineman Danny Shelton is signing with the Lions on a 2-year deal for $8mil, per @RosenhausSports.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 18, 2020
It is safe to say that the Lions have taken full advantage of their connection to the Patriots. They already agreed to swap later-round picks in exchange for safety Duron Harmon and even made a splash in free agency by agreeing to terms on a deal for linebacker Jamie Collins. It appears they will now be joined by another fellow teammate during their move this offseason.
Shelton came into the league as a former first-round pick by the Cleveland Browns in the 2015 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, he was unable to fit the billing and Cleveland and head largely struggled to find his footing during his first four years in the league.
However, he was finally able to etch out an integral role for himself in New England's formidable defense and wound up finishing the 2019 NFL season by setting career highs with 61 tackles and three sacks.
Shelton will now have an opportunity to build on his breakout year by taking his talents to the Lions alongside some familiar faces. Although he was largely utilized as a run-stopper with the Patriots, he could very well be poised for an elevated role that sees him more active in passing situations.
