The initial reaction of Detroit Lions supporters was not all that favorable when it was announced veteran defensive end Marcus Davenport was returning in 2025.
Unfortunately, the former Saints and Vikings defender was again not able to complete an entire NFL season, as he was forced out of action after suffering a triceps injury in Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals.
He was only able to appear in two regular-season games in 2024 in his first season in Motown.
Contract details revealed for the 28-year-old indicate general manager Brad Holmes and the team were able to secure his services for a relative bargain. It was reported Davenport's contract was worth up to $4,750,000. In order to receive the full amount, he would have to reach many incentives, indicating he was excelling playing in Kelvin Sheppard's defense.
His $1,650,000 in guaranteed money is comprised of a $300,000 signing bonus and a base salary of $1,350,000.
Davenport has the opportunity to secure up to $850,000 in roster bonuses at a rate of $50,000 per game.
If he is able to meet playing time and sack total incentives, Davenport can secure an additional $2 million this upcoming season. His 2025 cap number is $1,750,000.
While supporters were understandably frustrated, Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell have proven they do not simply give up on players. Davenport should be highly motivated to excel this season, as a more lucrative contract would be waiting from either Detroit or another NFL team.
While the skepticism is quite high, Detroit was able to reach an agreement with a defensive end at a very team-friendly rate.
Here's a look at the details of Davenport's contract extension.
Base salary: $1,350,000
Prorated bonus: $300,000
Cap number: $1,750,000
Dead cap: $1,700,000
Per game roster bonus: $850,000 (50,000 per game)
#Lions one-year, $3.65M Marcus Davenport deal: $1.65M gtd, $300K signing bonus, salary $1.35M (gtd), $50K per game active roster bonus, $2M sacks, playtime incentive
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 10, 2025