The Detroit Lions have made a surprising decision regarding linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, opting to release him when the new league year begins ¹. This move comes after Reeves-Maybin’s impressive 2023 season, where he earned his first Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.
Reeves-Maybin has been a key contributor to the Lions’ special teams unit and has served as a team captain. His leadership and skills on the field will undoubtedly be missed. The decision to release him seems to be a strategic move to free up cap space, with the Lions set to gain nearly $2 million in cap relief ².
Reeves-Maybin’s departure marks the end of his second stint with the Lions, who initially drafted him in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He spent five seasons with the team before joining the Houston Texans for a brief period. His return to the Lions in 2023 proved to be a successful one, with him playing a crucial role in the team’s special teams unit.
The Lions’ decision to release Reeves-Maybin may be part of a larger plan to reshape their roster ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. With over $52 million in cap space available, the team is well-positioned to make significant moves in free agency
One potential target for the Lions could be defensive end Myles Garrett, who has expressed his desire to leave the Cleveland Browns. Garrett’s impressive stats, including 14 sacks and 47 tackles in 2024, would undoubtedly bolster the Lions’ defense
While the release of Reeves-Maybin may come as a surprise to some, it’s clear that the Lions are committed to making moves to improve their roster. As the team looks to build on their recent playoff appearances, fans will be eagerly watching to see how the rest of the offseason unfolds.
Key Stats: Jalen Reeves-Maybin’s Career Highlights
– _Games Played:_ 114
– _Total Tackles:_ 221
– _Solo Tackles:_ 155
– _Assisted Tackles:_ 66
– _Sacks:_ 1.5 ¹
Reeves-Maybin’s contributions to the Lions will not be forgotten, and his leadership and skills will likely make him a sought-after free agent. As the Lions move forward, fans will be watching to see how the team’s roster shapes up ahead of the 2025 season.