The Detroit Lions have re-signed offensive lineman Ross Pierschbacher, the team announced on Wednesday morning. Pierschbacher was a restricted free agent, but the Lions opted to sign him to a new contract instead of offering him a tender at a set contract value. Although the team did not disclose the terms of the contract, the decision to forgo the tender option indicates that the deal will be significantly less than the minimum of $2.6 million.
What it Matters for Detroit Lions and Ross Piershbacher
The Lions have re-signed Pierschbacher. The team did not disclose contract terms. Pierschbacher was a restricted free agent, meaning the Lions could have offered him a tender at a set contract value, but the Lions opted to forego that option and just sign him to a new contract instead. The Lions added Pierschbacher at the start of the regular season last year when they found themselves shorthanded on the interior offensive line following some early injuries. Pierschbacher, a former center for the Alabama Crimson Tide, is now the only player under contract that has center experience to back up Frank Ragnow.
Key points:
- The Detroit Lions have re-signed reserve offensive lineman Ross Pierschbacher.
- Pierschbacher was a restricted free agent.
- The Lions opted to sign Pierschbacher to a new contract instead of offering him a tender at a set contract value.
- The deal is expected to be significantly less than the minimum of $2.6 million.
- Pierschbacher was added to the Lions' roster at the start of the regular season last year.
- Pierschbacher is the only player under contract with center experience to back up Frank Ragnow.
Bottom Line: Lions bolster offensive line depth
The Detroit Lions' decision to re-sign Ross Pierschbacher is a smart move that bolsters their offensive line depth. Pierschbacher's experience at center, left guard, and right guard makes him a valuable backup option for Frank Ragnow. With Evan Brown set to become an unrestricted free agent next week, the Lions needed to secure a reliable backup center. Pierschbacher's re-signing accomplishes that goal and gives the team more flexibility as they look to build their roster for the 2021 season.
