Even though the Detroit Lions revamped the trenches on both sides of the ball this offseason, certain weaknesses remain. GM Brad Holmes recently said that he believes the team is deeper than it has ever been on the offensive and defensive lines, but there are too many uncertainties heading into training camp to fully believe that.
The biggest reason to be skeptical of that statement is the defensive tackle depth. The Lions lost DJ Reader, who played the most snaps on the team on the interior, and Roy Lopez, who played every game and lined up for 425 defensive snaps. Both players were important parts of the Lions' defensive success.
If Tyleik Williams steps up in his second year, he could certainly help fill the hole left by the two departed free agents. Even then, the Lions would still have some snaps available, and they don't have enough talent and depth for fans to be happy with the rotation. In fact, the Lions may not even have a nose tackle on the roster.
Benito Jones may be the budget-friendly defensive tackle the Lions are looking for
Which brings us to Benito Jones. The veteran defensive lineman was certainly not a world-beater during his time in Detroit, but he at least has a ton of experience playing the position. He is as reliable as they come, having never missed a game during his two years with the Lions. He played significant defensive snaps during Detroit's run to the NFC Championship game in 2023.
Jones knows the team, coaching staff, and the defensive scheme. Yes, Kelvin Sheppard is now the defensive coordinator, and Kacy Rodgers is now in charge of the run game and the defensive line, but the general principles haven't changed much since Jones left in 2024.
The 28-year-old was a depth option for the Dolphins over the last two years, playing a role as a run-stopping nose tackle. Towards the end of the season, he was placed on injured reserve with a back injury, but he isn't expected to miss any time for next season.
It's not like the Lions need Jones to play more than a handful of snaps each game. In fact, he may not even make the 53-man roster. But the Lions need more bodies on the defensive line, and bringing in a familiar face who could adapt to the team quickly may be exactly what they are looking for. Lions fans are not getting the splashy signing they are looking for, so they may have to make do with Benito Jones instead.
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