NFC North – Free Agency Recap

Detroit Lions:

Added:

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

WR Golden Tate (5-yrs, $31M): I’m not a huge fan, as anyone who read my fantasy football articles knows, but Tate is a pretty good fit opposite Calvin Johnson. He’ll never be double covered while Calvin is on the field and could have a huge year. Tate gives the Lions the dynamic #2 receiver they have lacked since Brett Perriman.

Re-signed:

C Dominic Raiola (1-yr): Bringing back the 35-year-old Raiola gives the Lions another year before they have to find a new center. I’d be surprised if they don’t draft one this year.

WR Kevin Ogletree (1-yr): Back-up wide receiver who had 1 good game on opening day 2012 and has sucked ever since.

RB Joique Bell (3-yrs, $9.3M): Was hoping Bell would leave the division, but no such luck. The Lions keep their potent Bush/Bell combo in Detroit for a few more years. I think Bell is one of the most underrated running backs in the league.

TE Brandon Pettigrew (4-yrs, $16M): He’s slow with inconsistent hands and a bad run blocker. Great deal for the Lions!

Lost:

SS Louis Delmas (Dolphins, $3.5M): Injury prone but talented, the Lions would have been on the hook for a $6M payday if they kept Delmas. He’s not consistent enough for that kind of money. I wish the Bears would have signed him at only $3.5M.

DE Willie Young (Bears, $3M): Lions get worse and the Bears get better. Yay.