Looking at contract comps to project what it might take for Lions to retain starters headed for free agency
While hardly a hard and fast rule, the Detroit Lions have shown a proclivity toward re-signing their own under general manager Brad Holmes.
The strategy started with holdover veterans like Romeo Okwara and Tracy Walker and has extended to several of Holmes’ additions, including the team’s first draft class, with new deals for Penei Sewell and Amon-Ra St. Brown last offseason.
The Lions will inevitably bring back several of the team’s more than 20 free agents, but attention will likely be focused on the starting-caliber talent at the top of that list.
With free agency set to open next Wednesday, let’s explore what it could take to re-sign those six players based on recent comps.
Cornerback Carlton Davis
2024 stats: 13 games, 56 tackles, 11 pass defenses, two interceptions, 77.0 passer rating when targeted (career-low)
How he got here: A 2024 offseason trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Contract comps: L'Jarius Sneed (four years, $76.4 million), Chidobe Awuzie (three years, $36 million)
Projected contract: Three years, $51 million ($28 million guaranteed)
Thoughts: Davis was what the doctor ordered when Holmes shipped a third-round pick to the Buccaneers last offseason. Clamoring to play more man coverage upon his arrival, the veteran defensive back proved to be a strong schematic fit with his physicality in coverage and run support. Davis also served as a valuable mentor to rookie Terrion Arnold.
Established concerns about his durability also showed up. Davis broke his thumb in practice, requiring a club. He missed one game with a knee concern, then finished the season on injured reserve with a broken jaw. He's been sidelined at least four games and 20 total over the past four seasons.
When healthy, Davis offers a well-above-average skill set, even if he's not viewed as an elite performer in his position. He won't reset the market, but his salary should settle nicely in the second tier at his position, below the 11 corners with contracts averaging $19 million per season. That includes the similarly physical Sneed, who was more consistently productive and durable when he was acquired in a trade and extended by the Titans last offseason.