The June 1st Shopping List
Brad Holmes still has four roster spots to fill before training camp, and he’s probably not rushing to hand them out to street free agents just yet. Smart move. June 1st cuts are coming, and that’s when teams start making the tough decisions that could drop some real talent right into Detroit’s lap.
Here’s who might be worth a look when the inevitable salary cap bloodbath begins.
Mazi Smith, DT (Jets)
The former Michigan guy and first-round pick isn’t going to start for anybody, let’s be honest about that. But what he can do is eat space and stuff runs, which is exactly what the Lions need right now for depth on the interior line.
Smith would slide perfectly into a rotation role. Nothing flashy, just solid work when called upon. Sometimes that’s exactly what wins games in December.
Arik Armstead, DT (Jaguars)
Now this is the name that should get your attention. The Lions were reportedly interested in Armstead not too long ago, and Jacksonville can save $14.5 million by cutting him loose.
If that happens, Holmes needs to be on the phone immediately. Armstead next to Alim McNeill and Tyleik Williams? That’s the kind of defensive line rotation that can make offensive coordinators lose sleep. This guy can play serious snaps and make a real impact.
Broderick Washington, DT (Ravens)
Another veteran rotational piece, though Washington missed most of last season due to injury. When healthy, he’s been a reliable 500-snap guy for Baltimore for years.
He’d fill the same role as Smith – that extra run stuffer the Lions really need – but without the upside that Armstead brings. Solid depth, nothing more, nothing less.
Sirvocea Dennis, LB (Buccaneers)
With Tampa Bay adding Alex Anzalone and Josia Trotter, Dennis might find himself the odd man out. That could work perfectly for Detroit.
Dennis started for the Bucs last year and while he wasn’t making Pro Bowls, he was serviceable. More importantly, he could help ease Jimmy Rolder into his expected starting role while providing some pass rush from the linebacker spot.
Holmes has earned the benefit of the doubt when it comes to finding value in these situations. The man turned undrafted free agents into contributors and late-round picks into starters. Four open roster spots and a June 1st deadline approaching? This is exactly the kind of opportunity he’s built his reputation on.
Which of these potential cuts would you most want to see in Honolulu Blue? Or is Holmes better off sticking with what he’s got and developing from within?
