Rashean Mathis Re-Signs with Lions: Latest Contract Details, Comments, Reaction

After exploring options on the open market, defensive back Rashean Mathis will reportedly be returning to the Detroit Lions in 2015. 

According to Pro Football Talk, Mathis' new deal with the Lions is for two years:

Duane Burleson/Associated Press

Mathis came to Detroit in 2013 after spending 10 years with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He's recorded 25 passes defended and one interception in the last two years. 

In February, Lions general manager Martin Mayhew told Tim Twentyman of the team's official website he was hopeful a deal with Mathis could be worked out:

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He has a lot of position versatility, which we didn’t see much of this year because he was starting at outside corner the whole time, but he was a safety in college. He can play inside in the nickel. He’s a very versatile guy. He’s tough. He’s physical. We’d love to have him back. 

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The Lions needed something good to happen this offseason after losing Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley from the defensive line. Mathis isn't going to fix everything, but he remains a solid performer given his advanced age. 

Per Steve Palazzolo of Pro Football Focus, Mathis graded out better than anyone could have expected last year:

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The league isn’t exactly filled with cornerbacks in their mid-30s, never mind productive ones, but that’s exactly what Mathis was a year ago. He finished at +10.5 overall on 1073 snaps including the playoffs, impressive work for a player viewed as nothing more than a stopgap at this time a year ago.

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Given that the Lions also play in a division with big-play wide receivers like Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb and Alshon Jeffery, having quality depth in the secondary is essential to success. 

Mathis isn't at an age anymore where he can carry a secondary, but he is still productive enough to be a key player. He's also a great bargain given what the Lions are paying him relative to his production.