The Detroit Lions boasted one of the strongest rosters in the NFL during the 2024 season. With Super Bowl aspirations, the team entered the playoffs with high expectations but ultimately fell short, losing to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round.
As the offseason unfolds, Detroit will aim to improve its roster while also working to retain key players. Several Lions are set to hit free agency, including guard Kevin Zeitler, cornerback Carlton Davis, and defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike.
Zack Cook of Sports Grid recently projected landing spots for the top 45 pending free agents, predicting Onwuzurike will leave Detroit to sign with the Baltimore Ravens.
Regarding Onwuzurike, Cook noted:
In 2024, Onwuzurike appeared in 16 games, recording 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks, one tackle for loss, and 13 quarterback hits. His career-best season was highlighted by his ability to stay healthy.
The defensive lineman earned a 69.4 grade from Pro Football Focus and registered 45 pressures, ranking 15th among 219 qualified defensive linemen.
The Ravens could benefit from adding another playmaker up front. While Baltimore is known for its strong defense, the unit struggled in 2024, ranking 31st in passing yards allowed.
Bolstering the defensive line with a player who can pressure quarterbacks would strengthen the pass defense. Against the run, however, the Ravens excelled, finishing first in the NFL. Bringing in Onwuzurike would help maintain their dominance in that area.
With Brent Urban set to hit free agency and Broderick Washington struggling in 2024—earning a 53.5 Pro Football Focus grade—Baltimore could use reinforcements. In the team’s base 3-4 defense, Onwuzurike could step in as a starter at Washington’s position alongside nose tackle Travis Jones and elite lineman Nnamdi Madubuike.
Spotrac projects Onwuzurike to land a two-year, $9 million deal, averaging $4.5 million annually. Over the Cap estimates the Ravens will have approximately $12 million in cap space, making a signing feasible.
While the Lions would likely prefer to retain Onwuzurike, they may prioritize making a splash in free agency to remain competitive.
If that’s the case, Onwuzurike could become a lower priority, allowing a team like the Ravens to capitalize.
