The Detroit Lions are on the verge of losing one of their top free-agent contributors from last season.
Defensive tackle Roy Lopez is set to rejoin the Arizona Cardinals, NFL Network reported on Monday evening. Lopez confirmed the two-year, $11.5-million deal by posting the details on his Instagram story.
Lopez, 28, was a productive player who signed in Detroit on a one-year, $3.5 million deal last offseason after two seasons in Arizona, where he also grew up and played his final year of college ball (University of Arizona). He was a plus rotational player for a Lions defensive line that struggled to find its groove for much of the season, providing some unexpected pass-rush juice and a positive presence in the run game.
Lopez is one of a few defensive linemen from Detroit to hit free agency without being re-signed by the Lions. Defensive tackle D.J. Reader is also still unsigned, while edge defenders Tyrus Wheat, Al-Quadin Muhammad and Marcus Davenport are also searching for their next homes.
Lopez is the third notable defender to sign outside of Detroit on Monday. Linebacker Alex Anzalone is set to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a two-year deal, while cornerback Amik Robertson inked a two-year pact with the Washington Commanders.
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This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Detroit Lions to lose DT Roy Lopez in free agency
Reporting by Nolan Bianchi, The Detroit News / The Detroit News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
