Could Marcus Davenport make a comeback after missing most of 2024 due to injury?
Good evening, I’m reporting live on a potential comeback story involving defensive end Marcus Davenport, who joined the Detroit Lions last offseason with hopes of reviving his career after a history of injuries. The Lions signed him with optimism that a fresh start could help him overcome the injury woes that had plagued him throughout his career.
Davenport, a first-round pick by the New Orleans Saints in 2018, has struggled to play a full season in the NFL, and unfortunately, that trend continued in 2024. After just two games, his season came to an abrupt end due to a torn triceps in Week 3. The defensive end started in Week 1 but was sidelined for Week 2 with a groin injury. In his second game, he suffered the season-ending triceps injury.
By the time he was done for the season, Davenport had registered just two tackles, half a sack, and four quarterback hits. Despite his injury setbacks, the UTSA product remains an intriguing prospect due to his natural ability to rush the passer. However, his injury history is concerning, with only six games played over the past two seasons. When healthy, though, Davenport has the potential to be a key asset for any defense.
In limited action during 2024, Davenport posted a 14.3% pass-rush win rate, accumulating seven pressures. Over his career, he has logged 208 pressures, with his highest total being 51 in 2019. Unfortunately, just 14 of those pressures came in the last two years, raising concerns about his consistency.
Detroit could benefit from bringing Davenport back to compete for a role, but his return might not necessarily affect their top defensive line spot, especially with Aidan Hutchinson returning from a broken leg. Davenport’s biggest hurdle, however, remains his health, which will likely impact his market value.
The Lions have other defensive line options that have stepped up in Davenport’s absence, such as Josh Paschal, Za’Darius Smith, and Al-Quadin Muhammad. Smith’s future with the team is uncertain, as Detroit could potentially save on cap space by releasing him, while Muhammad is set to become a free agent.
If the team faces a choice between Davenport and Muhammad, the latter’s strong performance late in the season could prove to be the deciding factor.
When Davenport signed last season, it was for one year and $6.5 million. Given his injury history, his market value is expected to decrease slightly. Should Detroit bring him back, I anticipate a one-year deal with a reduced base salary, possibly around $5.5 million. To boost his overall contract value, the deal could include incentives based on playing time and production.
Contract prediction: One year, $5.5 million.
