How Does Adding Bruce Irvin Impact the Lions Defense?

The trade deadline may be beyond us, but that doesn’t mean general manager Brad Holmes is done adding talent to this Detroit Lions roster. If you were hoping for a pass rusher, your wish has been granted. It may not have happened exactly as expected, but the Lions have officially signed Bruce Irvin to the practice squad. Irvin himself confirmed the signing with a photo of his locker in Allen Park on social media.

Question of the day: Does signing Bruce Irvin change your opinion of the Lions defense?

My answer: I see it as marginally beneficial, but I wouldn’t read into it too much.

It’s certainly exciting to see a former first-rounder who contributed to a historically good defense join the Lions. But there are a few details about this signing that are worth noting. First, the fact that Irvin was available to begin with, and secondly, the Lions adding him to the practice squad.

He’ll likely see some game-day elevations sooner than later, but I see this move as similar to other high-level player signings by the Lions at the tail end of their careers. Players like Adrian Peterson and Dwight Freeney come to mind. Though, perhaps with the right circumstances, Irvin could have a bigger impact, just like Rashean Mathis or Anquan Boldin did.

I wouldn’t hold my breath for it, though. Realistically, I expect Irvin to step in as a slightly less efficient version of James Houston. The Lions were clearly in need of a pass rusher, and given Irvin’s age, I expect them to use him on a situational snap count to keep him fresh and effective for what they brought him in to do. Irvin is a capable run defender, but that’s not where the Lions need help, and given his age, they’ll want to use him wisely.

Ultimately, this signing doesn’t change my view on where the Lions defense stands. If anything, it makes me feel worse about James Houston’s odds of returning this season. But let’s hope I’m wrong. Time will tell. Share your thoughts on how it changes your opinion in the comments and the poll below.

Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.