Detroit Lions Secure Run-Stopper Roy Lopez with $4.65 Million Deal

The Detroit Lions have made a strategic move by signing run-stuffing defensive tackle Roy Lopez to a one-year contract valued at $4.65 million, as confirmed by a source familiar with the agreement.

This insider shared the news on Wednesday, speaking to the press on the condition of anonymity since the deal had yet to be officially announced.

Lopez, who brings four years of experience to the table, will join veterans Alim McNeill and DJ Reader, enhancing a defensive line that faced significant injury challenges last season.

At just 27 years old, Lopez started all 16 games last year with the Arizona Cardinals and has played in a total of 30 games for them, following a two-season stint with the Houston Texans where he started 19 games. The Texans originally selected him in the sixth round of the 2019 draft after his standout college career at Arizona.

Last season, Lopez recorded 28 tackles, including four tackles for loss, bringing his career total to 137 tackles, with 17 of those behind the line of scrimmage.

The Lions, who are the two-time defending NFC champions, have been active in addressing their roster needs during this week’s NFL free agency period.

In addition to Lopez, cornerback D.J. Reed has agreed to a three-year contract worth $48 million, with $32 million guaranteed, shortly after cornerback Carlton Davis signed with the New England Patriots.

Detroit has also retained linebackers Derrick Barnes and Ezekiel Turner, while opting to keep Marcus Davenport on a one-year deal that could reach $4.75 million, and they have released defensive end Za'Darius Smith.