DETROIT, MI — Following a promising 10-7 campaign and a hard-fought playoff run that ended in the NFC Divisional Round against the Green Bay Packers, the Detroit Lions are looking to take the next step. Head coach Dan Campbell and the Lions’ front office wasted no time addressing the team’s needs, bolstering their defense with two significant free-agent signings: pass rusher Azeez Ojulari and cornerback Rasul Douglas.
With these additions, Detroit aims to close the gap in the NFC North and solidify their place as contenders.
Azeez Ojulari: Youthful Potential for the Pass Rush
The Lions signed 25-year-old outside linebacker Azeez Ojulari to a two-season deal worth $5.94 million with a $6.24 million bonus. Ojulari, who spent Season 30 with the New York Giants, has shown flashes of brilliance as a pass rusher. Though limited to just six games last season due to injuries, he recorded 2.5 sacks and seven tackles, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
Detroit sees Ojulari as a player with untapped potential who can thrive in their aggressive defensive scheme. Paired with Detroit’s existing talent on the defensive line, Ojulari’s addition should help the Lions improve their ability to pressure quarterbacks, a critical area of focus after their playoff loss to the Packers.
“Azeez is a player with the kind of motor and talent we’re looking for,” said head coach Dan Campbell. “We know he’s going to give everything he’s got on every snap.”
Rasul Douglas: Experience and Playmaking in the Secondary
To shore up their secondary, the Lions inked 30-year-old cornerback Rasul Douglas to a one-season deal worth $2.91 million with a $5.28 million bonus. Douglas comes to Detroit after a strong showing in Season 30 with the Buffalo Bills, where he appeared in 15 games, tallying 46 tackles, two interceptions, and 11 passes defended. Known for his length and instincts, Douglas will bring veteran leadership to a Lions secondary that struggled at times in big moments.
Douglas’ ability to make plays in coverage and step up in clutch situations aligns perfectly with Detroit’s defensive philosophy. He will likely slot in as a starting cornerback, tasked with shutting down some of the league’s top receivers in a competitive NFC North.
“Rasul brings experience, and he’s a guy who knows how to make plays when it matters most,” said Campbell. “We’re thrilled to have him in Detroit.”
Building on Last Season’s Success
The Lions’ Season 30 campaign was their best in years, but their playoff exit at the hands of the division rival Packers underscored the areas they needed to address. Both Ojulari and Douglas bring skills that directly address those shortcomings. Ojulari’s speed off the edge will be critical against quarterbacks like Jordan Love, while Douglas’ experience and ball skills should elevate the team’s pass coverage.
With these signings, Detroit has positioned itself to compete for another playoff berth and challenge Green Bay for NFC North supremacy.
What’s Next for Detroit?
The Lions are far from finished with their offseason plans. With the draft looming, the team is expected to address additional needs, including bolstering their offensive line and adding depth at skill positions. However, the signings of Ojulari and Douglas show that Detroit is serious about building on its momentum.
“This is just the beginning,” Campbell said. “We’ve got the pieces, and now it’s about putting it all together and taking that next step.”
Detroit fans have reason to be optimistic. With these new additions and a solid core returning, the Lions are poised to roar even louder in Season 31.
