The Detroit Lions continue to evaluate their options at edge rusher, with speculation swirling around a potential trade for Trey Hendrickson. In the meantime, they’ve opted to bolster the interior of their defense by signing a seasoned linebacker once known for an impressive 164-tackle campaign.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported via X that Detroit has agreed to terms with veteran linebacker Zach Cunningham.
Cunningham, an experienced defender who made his mark with the Houston Texans, most recently had stints with the Denver Broncos and Philadelphia Eagles. He’s entering his ninth NFL season, though his standout 2020 performance—when he led the league in tackles—feels like a distant memory. Since then, injuries and inconsistency have limited his availability: 14 games in 2021, 6 in 2022, 13 in 2023, and just 7 in 2024.
Can Cunningham Provide a Defensive Boost in Detroit?
This isn’t a headline-grabbing acquisition by head coach Dan Campbell and the Lions, but it could add some much-needed experience. Cunningham managed to start 10 games for the Eagles last season, providing some reliability at linebacker.
Broncos coach Sean Payton previously spoke highly of Cunningham’s brief time in Denver, stating he brought energy and versatility to the defense, as noted by Sports Illustrated.
Despite those praises, Cunningham’s 2024 performance wasn’t exceptional. He earned a run defense grade of 68.7 (ranking 74th among 189 linebackers) and a pass rush grade of 58.8, which placed him at 89th, according to Pro Football Focus.
During the 2025 NFL Draft, the Lions used their first-round selection to address the defensive line, choosing Ohio State defensive tackle Tyleik Williams with the 28th pick. ESPN labeled it a surprising move, as none of their analysts projected Williams as a first-rounder.
Analyst Matt Miller described Williams as a powerful nose tackle who can dominate against the run and occupy blockers—freeing up star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson to wreak havoc off the edge.
Between Williams anchoring the front and Cunningham potentially finding his rhythm again, Detroit could make meaningful strides in slowing down opposing running backs—especially if they cross paths with the Eagles again during a playoff run.
