The Detroit Lions have pulled off a stunning reunion, signing legendary defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh to a one-year, $8 million deal, sources tell ESPN. The move, finalized days before the 2025 NFL Draft, brings the former All-Pro back to Motown to bolster a depleted defensive line after a 15-2 season.
Suh, 38, dominated for Detroit from 2010-2014, racking up 27.5 sacks and earning four Pro Bowls (NFL.com). His ferocious play defined the Lions’ defensive identity. After stints with Miami, the Rams, Tampa Bay, and a 2022 cameo with Philadelphia, Suh returns to fill a critical gap (ESPN).
The Lions’ defensive front lacks a proven starter alongside Alim McNeill, whose ACL injury clouds his 2025 readiness (Pride of Detroit). Roy Lopez and Mekhi Wingo offer depth, but Suh’s experience—71.5 career sacks and a Super Bowl ring—addresses immediate needs (PFF).
GM Brad Holmes, leveraging $42.36 million in cap space, sees Suh as a cost-effective veteran to pair with Aidan Hutchinson’s pass rush (Spotrac). Suh’s 2024 absence from the NFL raises durability concerns, but his 2022 stint with Philadelphia showed he can still disrupt (The Athletic).
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard plans to deploy Suh as a run-stopper and interior rusher, easing pressure on Hutchinson (Sporting News). The Lions’ defense, ranked 10th in sacks last year, gains a proven force to challenge NFC elites like Philadelphia.
Suh’s return aligns with Detroit’s Super Bowl push. With Jared Goff’s offense averaging 32.1 points per game, a fortified front could be the difference (NFL Network). Holmes’ bold move echoes his signing of D.J. Reed.
As the April 24 draft looms, Suh’s presence adds veteran grit. Can he recapture his Lions magic? Detroit’s championship hopes are brighter.
This reunion ignites Motown’s defense for a 2025 title run.
