Lions 2023 free-agency tracker: C.J. Gardner-Johnson adds to the secondary upgrade
NFL free agency has begun, and with analysis from our NFL Nation writers and expert ratings, we’re keeping tabs on every significant signing, trade, and release of the 2023 offseason. Now that the new league year has started, formal free-agent signings may take place. ESPN will air the first round of the 2023 NFL draft on April 27.
In lieu of Jamaal Williams, the Detroit Lions have signed former Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery. With the addition of Emmanuel Moseley, Cameron Sutton, and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, they strengthened the secondary. Additionally, Detroit added Denver Broncos wide receiver Marvin Jones Jr. LB Graham Glasgow, while Isaiah Buggs, the defensive tackle, returns Craig Reynolds, DE; Alex Anzalone, RB OL Matt Nelson, John Cominsky, and CB Will Harris, to name a few.
What it means: Upgrading the secondary was a top priority for the Lions front staff. They not only spoke the talk, but they also brought in Gardner-Johnson, who is fresh off a Super Bowl run with the Philadelphia Eagles, to truly walk the walk. The secondary was Detroit’s greatest vulnerability, and with six interceptions, Gardner-Johnson shared the NFL lead in interceptions. The 25-year-old’s tenure with the New Orleans Saints means he is also acquainted with the Lions staff. On staff were defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn and head coach Dan Campbell.
The danger is negligible. This is definitely a talent improvement. Gardner-Johnson can play safety or slot corner because of his versatility. Furthermore, the Lions are committing to a playmaker of his skill for a year at a reasonable cost. It appears to benefit the company in all ways. Despite missing five games due to a ruptured kidney last season, Gardner-Johnson gave up only 1.0 yards per coverage snap while he was healthy.
A source informed ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Tuesday that the Lions and the former Bears running back have agreed on a three-year, $18 million contract that includes a $11 million guarantee.
What it means: After a career-best season, it seems expected that locker room leader Jamaal Williams, who leads the NFL in running touchdowns (17) in 2022, will be departing Detroit. Though he didn’t produce as much as Williams did the previous season, Montgomery is just as good in situations requiring little yards. After rushing for 801 yards and five rushing touchdowns in 16 games this summer, he was regarded as one of the best running back choices available in free agency. Montgomery also had 316 receiving yards and a score on 34 receptions.
What the danger is: Very little. To support starting runner D’Andre Swift, the Lions needed to get the services of another trustworthy backfield runner. The Lions are acquiring a good player in Montgomery who hasn’t been too spectacular in his career. In 2020, he ran for 1,070 yards and has at least 800 running yards in each of his four NFL seasons.
ESPN confirms that Sutton has agreed to a three-year contract worth up to $33 million with the Lions.
What it means: The Lions are covering a critical defensive need. Sutton, who just had a career-best season with the Steelers in which he recorded three interceptions and fifteen pass breakups, will provide leadership to a desperately needed group of cornerbacks. The defense of Detroit let up opponents to score 25.12 points per game last season, which was tied for third most in the NFL. Because of his versatility, he can line up in the slot or play on the outside when needed. Despite his age of 28, Sutton can still be developed by the Lions. He has only started eight games for the Steelers before to the last two seasons.
