When examining the stats, it’s fair to ask: why does Marcus Davenport keep getting opportunities?

Since being drafted in the first round in 2018, he hasn’t completed a full NFL season. And in 2024, the Detroit Lions lost him after only three games due to an unusual elbow injury.

However, Lions coaches Kacy Rodgers and Kelvin Sheppard insist their belief in Davenport isn’t about optimism — it’s grounded in what they’ve seen on film and the player’s mindset.

The Detroit Lions are backing Marcus Davenport because of his high-level play when healthy, his dedication during the offseason, and a mental shift that’s earned the coaches’ full trust. Despite a history of injuries, Detroit sees him as a potential difference-maker opposite Aidan Hutchinson in 2025 — if he can stay available.

Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard was clear when asked why they still believe in Davenport.

“I’ve witnessed it,” Sheppard said. “His talent was never in question — it’s been his ability to stay on the field.”

When he’s been active, Davenport shows rare tools — length, power, quickness, and the ability to disrupt offenses off the edge. Even in his brief 2024 action, he made an impact, pressuring QBs and showing the burst that once made him a top prospect.

“His mindset has shifted,” Sheppard said. “There’s no hesitation. He’s working like it’s already midseason.”

Coaches say Davenport has been around the Allen Park complex as much as they are, hitting workouts hard, transforming his physique, and pushing his conditioning.

And that’s what Detroit is betting on: with the right mentality and approach, they believe Davenport can finally make it through an entire season and deliver on the talent he’s always had.

The Lions chose not to spend big on edge rushers this offseason. They had the option but opted not to.

That’s because they believe Marcus Davenport can be the guy to complement Hutchinson.

“If he gives us 16 or 17 games, we expect great results,” Rodgers said.

And honestly, anyone who watches the film would agree. Maybe he’s not headed to the Pro Bowl, but he’s a powerful, flexible pass rusher who wins matchups and can ease the burden on Hutchinson.

Marcus Davenport is turning heads this offseason, thanks to his renewed focus and offseason dedication.

The Lions are convinced his injuries have been more about misfortune than long-term durability issues.

Detroit’s coaches are planning carefully, limiting strain, and managing reps to ensure he lasts the season.

They skipped out on top free-agent pass rushers because they’re confident Davenport can succeed as Hutchinson’s running mate.

You don’t gamble on just any player. But Marcus Davenport? That’s a risk worth taking.

The Lions believe they’ve got a hungry, healthier player determined to prove himself — and with the ability to do it.

If he stays on the field, Detroit might not have just one star edge rusher in 2025.
They could have two.