Breaking News: Detroit Lions are on the verge of Signing another super star as comfirmed by agent

In a recent report by Tom Pelissero, it has been revealed that the Detroit Lions are adding veteran defensive end Bruce Irvin to their practice squad. Notably, Irvin boasts an impressive career with 55.5 sacks to his name. In the 2022 season, at the age of 36, Irvin showcased his skills by recording 3.5 sacks in 10 games while playing for the Seattle Seahawks. This move indicates the Lions’ strategic decision to bring in experienced talent to contribute to their defensive unit.

Why it Matters

Many people were worried that the Lions had not strengthened their pass rush enough in the offseason before the 2023 season. The 2023 NFL Trade Deadline passed, but general manager Brad Holmes continued to forgo bringing in a pass rusher. Now that Week 11 is approaching, the Lions’ ability to pressure the passer has not been up to par. If Bruce Irvin can finally convince the Lions coaching staff that he deserves a position on the 53-man roster, only time will tell.

Who is Bruce Irvin?

During his NFL career, Bruce Irvin has had a number of noteworthy turning points and moves to other organizations. He was selected as a defensive end by the Seattle Seahawks in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, although he eventually switched to linebacker. Irvin showed potential in his first season with the Seahawks, recording eight sacks and forcing a turnover. He kept honing his craft and made a big defensive contribution for the Seahawks, helping them win a Super Bowl in 2013. Irvin did, however, encounter difficulties, such as a 2013 ban for breaking the NFL’s drug-abuse policy.

In 2016, Irvin joined the Oakland Raiders, rejoining former linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. of the Seahawks. He kept having an effect, winning the 2016 AFC Defensive Player of the Week award. Notable sacks and tackles throughout his time with the Raiders helped him uphold his standing as a formidable defender.

Later in his career, Irvin played for the Carolina Panthers and the Atlanta Falcons, demonstrating his versatility and talent on opposing teams and defensive schemes. He joined the Seahawks again in 2019, but an ACL tear ended his career there. Before making a brief comeback to the Seahawks for a third tenure in 2022, he temporarily joined the Chicago Bears in 2021.

Bottom Line: A Potential Boost for Lions’ Defense

Bruce Irvin’s signing by the Detroit Lions to their practice squad is a calculated attempt to improve their pass rush, which has been a vulnerability so far in the 2023 campaign. With his extensive expertise and track record, Irvin might provide the Lions’ defensive line the much-needed lift. Although it’s unclear if he’ll make the 53-man roster, his signing is a positive move in the right direction to help the Lions with their defensive shortcomings. Irvin may provide the Lions’ defensive strategy a useful viewpoint and skill set because of his varied NFL experience and perseverance in the face of injuries and team moves in the past.