DL Matt Ioannidis Listed as Free Agent Lions Should Target

Do the Lions need to add a new defensive tackle to the roster?

The Detroit Lions are entering the season with a couple of question marks along their defensive line. 

Despite retaining John Cominsky and Isaiah Buggs, it is not a foregone conclusion that the team will be able to stop the run and pressure the quarterback on a weekly basis 

In a recent PFF list of one signing, trade or extension each NFL team needs to execute before training camp, it was recommended that Detroit's personnel department target defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis. 

Ioannidis was a fifth-round draft choice, back in 2016, of the Washington Commanders. 

After six seasons, the veteran defensive tackle was released, and spent the 2022 season with the Carolina Panthers. 

As PFF explained, "Ioannidis was one of the more surprising cap casualties heading into 2022, ultimately landing with the Carolina Panthers on a one-year, $5.9 million flier. He paired well with nose tackle Derrick Brown as a lighter pass rusher up the middle." 

Ioannidis has demonstrated an ability to consistently be a strong pass rusher throughout his career, securing pass-rush grades of 69.1 or better in each of the past six seasons. 

Alim McNeill is expected to continue his development, as he will enter training camp having become leaner and dedicated to focusing on his health and nutrition this offseason. 

"A reliable veteran on the interior next to 2021 third-round pick Alim McNeill could be a key addition to a young Lions defensive line that was gashed up the middle at times in 2022," PFF opined. "Detroit does not have many holes left, but not significantly addressing the interior of the defensive line this offseason — via the draft or free agency — leaves an area in need of reinforcements."