NFL Free Agency Preview: Linebackers ( 2023 )

[D6]

Vikings release Eric Kendricks

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Eric Kendricks was one of the most impactful Defensive Players the Lions faced in the NFC North and overall, for many seasons. Kendricks was a complete LB, with great instincts. He baited Matthew Stafford into multiple interceptions.

Earlier this year, Kendricks turned 31. While Kendricks had good stats in the 2022 season and was part of a Vikings team that won the NFC North Title, it was a down season for him, compared to his usual standards. The question is was this because of Kendricks playing in a different system, after being in Mike Zimmer's Defense his first 7 seasons in the NFL and/ or whether age started to become a significant factor in his play? The Lions and many other teams should look at Kendricks closely, to assess whether he can be an important piece for one or more seasons.

[D6]

Lions free agency preview: Alex Anzalone’s career year creates intrigue at linebacker

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Germaine Pratt and Kyzir White are two LBs that are intriguing options for the Lions. As much as I respect what Bobby Wagner and Lavonte David have contributed to their respective teams in the NFL, age and cost are concerns.

Pratt has been an underrated reason why the Bengals won 5 playoff games the last 2 seasons combined. Pratt is a 3 Down LB with good all around skills. Both turn 27 this year, hence could be players part of a longer term solution with the Lions.

Kyzir White's impressive range was on display in the Eagles 38-35 win over the Lions in the 2022 season opener. White was able to get to a spot in which he deflected Jared Goff's 2nd QTR pass that ended up in the hands of CB James Bradbury, who returned the interception for a TD.

[D6]

T.J. Edwards agrees to deal with Bears

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In addition to the Bears getting a good player who doesn't turn 27 until this summer, the significance of the contract agreement between the Bears and Edwards is that the Off the Ball market appears to be on the buyers (teams) side. With the Lions having a starter need at the position, this is welcome news.

[D6]

Bengals re-sign Germaine Pratt

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I'm going under the assumption that the veteran Off the Ball LB the Lions with the highest value contract will be signing for less than what Germaine Pratt received to remain with the Bengals. Pratt's contract is one the Lions could have afforded. It's evident though that the Lions aren't going to put many dollars into the Off the Ball LB unit this year. This could easily be the case in future seasons as well under Brad Holmes.

[D6]

Report: Falcons, Kaden Elliss agree to a three-year, $21.5 million deal

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I'm glad to see Kaden Elliss get a higher valued contract. His Dad, former Lions DT Luther Elliss is a class act. Luther Elliss is the only NFL player I'm aware of who was happy to get the Franchise Tag placed on him. Saying something along the lines that he's honored to have the Franchise Tag.

Kaden Elliss had a breakout season on Defense at the right time.