Detroit Lions Cut DE Bust, Save $6.5M Salary Cap

The Detroit Lions have made a decisive move, cutting defensive end Marcus Davenport and freeing $6.5 million in salary cap space, sources tell ESPN. The decision, announced ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, signals GM Brad Holmes’ intent to reshape the roster after a 15-2 season fell short in the playoffs.

Davenport, signed to a one-year, $6.5 million deal in 2024, played just two games due to an elbow injury, recording zero sacks and minimal impact (PFF). The former first-round pick, once viewed as a high-upside addition, failed to deliver, continuing a career plagued by injuries—six games over two years (ESPN).

The cut bolsters Detroit’s $42.36 million cap space, providing flexibility to address pressing needs at edge rusher and guard (Spotrac). Holmes, who cut Za’Darius Smith to save $5.75 million, is prioritizing cost-effective talent to support Aidan Hutchinson’s 7.5-sack dominance (Pride of Detroit).

Lions’ defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard now leans on Hutchinson and Josh Paschal, but Davenport’s absence underscores the urgency for a new pass rusher. Sources suggest Detroit is eyeing free agent Emmanuel Ogbah, a $3.5 million bargain with five sacks in 2024, or a draft prospect like LSU’s Bradyn Swinson (The Athletic).

The move aligns with Detroit’s Super Bowl aspirations. With Jared Goff’s offense averaging 32.1 points per game, the Lions need defensive upgrades to rival NFC powers like Philadelphia (NFL.com). Saving $6.5 million allows Holmes to pursue depth without straining future extensions for stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Davenport’s departure, while unsurprising given his injury history, marks another roster reset. Holmes’ track record—signing D.J. Reed, drafting Hutchinson—suggests confidence in rebuilding the edge (Sporting News).

As the April 24 draft nears, Detroit’s cap space fuels bold possibilities. Can Holmes turn this cut into a championship-caliber addition?

The Lions’ defense is poised for a makeover, with $6.5 million to spend wisely.