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Lions make surprise move, sign former All-Pro Devin White originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Detroit Lions are adding veteran experience to the heart of their defense, announcing Saturday the signing of former All-Pro linebacker Devin White to a one-year contract.
The move comes at an important time for Detroit after rookie linebacker Jimmy Rolder exited Friday’s training camp practice early to be evaluated for a leg injury. While the severity of Rolder’s injury remains unclear, the Lions wasted little time adding proven depth to one of the NFL’s most physical defenses.
White enters Detroit looking for a fresh opportunity after spending last season with the Las Vegas Raiders. The veteran linebacker started all 17 games for the first time since his final full season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, proving he could still handle a heavy workload.
Statistically, White turned in one of the busiest seasons of his career. He recorded a career-high 174 total tackles, becoming just the 13th player in NFL history since 1994 to reach at least 170 tackles in a single season. He also added 2.5 sacks and one forced fumble while producing double-digit tackles in eight different games.
Detroit takes a big gamble
Despite the impressive tackle numbers, White’s overall performance drew mixed reviews.
He struggled at times in pass coverage, allowing 62 receptions on 75 targets for 498 yards and two touchdowns. Opposing quarterbacks completed 82.7 percent of their passes when targeting White and posted a 97.7 passer rating. Missed tackles and occasional coverage lapses also raised concerns throughout the season.
Still, the Lions believe White’s athleticism, experience and leadership can provide valuable depth for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. Detroit has built one of the league’s most talented rosters over the past several seasons, and adding a former Pro Bowler gives defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn another experienced option at linebacker.
For White, the one-year deal represents an opportunity to revive his reputation while contributing to one of the NFC’s top contenders.
If he can rediscover the disruptive form that made him an All-Pro earlier in his career, the Lions may have found one of training camp’s most intriguing value signings. With Detroit chasing a championship, White now has the chance to prove he can still make a major impact on one of the NFL’s biggest stages.
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