Detroit Lions

Detroit lion urged to sign veterans defender Mike Purcell for Boost Ahead of playoffs.

The Detroit Lions have had an almost flawless record through the first 13 games of the season, sitting at 12-1 as they enter Week 15. While their record is nearly perfect, Detroit hasn’t had an easy road. Dan Campbell’s team has faced a challenging schedule after winning the division last year, making this year’s success even more impressive.

Their performance is particularly remarkable given the challenges they’ve encountered. Injuries have threatened to derail what could be a championship season, with several key players missing time, including star Aidan Hutchinson, whose status for the playoffs is uncertain.

These health issues have tested the Lions’ depth, which will be crucial as they head into the postseason, where a single loss could expose a vulnerability. With Campbell’s squad currently dealing with defensive line injuries, there is one player who could help ease the burden.

In a recent article, Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder suggested that the Lions’ best move would be to sign veteran defensive tackle Mike Purcell. Holder pointed out the recent injuries to D.J. Reader and Alim McNeil as a clear reason for adding “another big-bodied option on the interior,” especially with the playoffs approaching.

While Purcell may not be a game-changing acquisition, there are reasons for Detroit to consider the signing. The 33-year-old is an experienced NFL player, with 45 starts and 90 career appearances since entering the league in 2014. His role has varied across different teams, from practice squad member to starter, proving his willingness to contribute in any way possible.

Although Purcell has been a free agent since being cut by the New England Patriots this preseason, he showed a late-career resurgence. In 2022, he recorded a career-high 1.5 sacks, four quarterback hits, and his second-highest tackle total (45) in a single season. He followed that up in 2023 with five QB hits (though no sacks) and three pass breakups, a career best.

Standing at 6-foot-3 and nearly 330 pounds, Purcell is an ideal gap-filler who could provide valuable support to the Lions’ defensive line in case of further injuries. Even if he isn’t called into action, having a dependable depth option with extensive starting experience on standby is a smart move for a Detroit defense that has dealt with significant losses this season.

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