Detroit Lions Free Agency: Defensive Line a Big Reason Why Players Like Detroit

Most NFL fans are now familiar with what the Detroit Lions have been able to do with their defensive line.  The Silver Crush, as they now like to be known, was one of the most dominating defensive lines in 2010 and could only get better with the addition of first-round pick Nick Fairley.  What became apparent during free agency, however, is how other players view the Lions’ defensive line.

Two free agency signings by the Lions were corner Eric Wright and linebacker Stephen Tulloch.  Both of these players were seeking long-term, big money contracts, but had to settle for one-year contracts. 

In the case of Wright, he is a player that underperformed in 2010 for the Cleveland Browns.  After his first three years in the league he was in line for a nice deal but all that went out the window last year. 

As for Tulloch, he felt he was in line for a big contract because he had a career year and was the league’s second-leading linebacker last year.  With many teams limited by the salary cap, however, that contract did not materialize for Tulloch. 

Although the reasons they had to settle for one-year contracts were different, both players chose Detroit for a reason.

They felt it was their best opportunity to show they deserve big money. 

This shows the tremendous influence the defensive line is having.  A corner’s best friend is a strong pass rush.  It is a lot easier to cover a receiver if the quarterback is on his back. Likewise for a linebacker—it is easier to get to the running back when the offensive line is busy trying to keep the defensive line at bay.

It's a credit to the Lions' organization that just a couple of years removed from the 2008 winless debacle they have managed to gain a reputation as a team players can succeed with. 

Now it is up to the players to perform, and one gets the feeling that Ndamukong Suh, Kyle Vanden Bosch and company will settle for no less than a monster effort from their teammates.