The Detroit Lions are bolstering their linebacker corps with the signing of veteran Zach Cunningham, according to NFL insider Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet). This move adds experience and depth to a defense that has shown marked improvement but still seeks consistency in the middle of the field.
Cunningham, 29, brings a proven track record of production and leadership. He played in seven games for the Denver Broncos last season after being released by the Philadelphia Eagles, where he made a notable impact in 2023. In his lone season with the Eagles, Cunningham recorded 85 combined tackles, showcasing his ability to diagnose plays quickly and contribute in both run-stopping and coverage situations.
Drafted by the Houston Texans in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Cunningham led the NFL in tackles in 2020 and has consistently been a tackling machine throughout his career. His instincts and sideline-to-sideline range should complement Detroit’s young and aggressive defense under coordinator Aaron Glenn.
The Lions have emerged as legitimate NFC contenders and are clearly in win-now mode. Signing Cunningham reflects a strategic effort to bring in veteran leadership to stabilize a linebacker unit that has dealt with injuries and inconsistency.
With Organized Team Activities (OTAs) underway and training camp on the horizon, Cunningham will have time to acclimate and compete for a key rotational or even starting role. His addition could be a quiet but impactful move as the Lions aim to take the next step toward a Super Bowl run.
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