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After just one season in Detroit, free agent defensive tackle Roy Lopez’s Lions tenure is over, as he is returning to the Arizona Cardinals after agreeing Monday to a two-year, $11.5 million deal with $7 million in guarantees, according to the NFL Network.
Serving in a backup role, Lopez delivered solid returns last fall for the Lions, even occasionally outperforming teammates who had started in front of him, such as DJ Reader, Tyleik Williams, and Alim McNeill. Despite playing fewer snaps than all three of those players, Lopez surpassed each of them in sacks, quarterback hits, and tackles for loss.
Before signing a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Lions, Lopez had earned a reputation as a strong run stopper during his previous stints with the Houston Texans and Cardinals. In Detroit, he expanded his defensive repertoire by showcasing impressive pass-rushing ability and applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
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While Lopez’s production and depth will certainly be missed, the Lions can replenish the loss through free agency or even through their draft capital this year.
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This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: Detroit Lions free agent DT Roy Lopez signs with Cardinals
