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If the Detroit Lions let edge rusher Charles Harris go, here are five options to replace him in free agency.
The Detroit Lions took a one-year flier on Charles Harris last offseason, and it’s safe to say it paid off for both sides. Harris obliterated his career-highs across the board, with 65 total tackles, 7.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, 16 quarterback hits and 34 pressures.
But the Lions now have a key decision to make on Harris. Was 2021 a one-year splash? Or a perfect marriage of skill set and scheme that is sustainable? Their pass rush was not that great with him, due in some part to injuries around him (Romeo Okwara and Trey Flowers most notably), and he certainly made himself some money with a breakout season after easily being declared a first-round draft bust.
There’s been some written buzz around saying the Lions should re-sign Harris with little or no question. The draft class of edge rushers is deep, and there are cheaper free options out there to add depth and fit a similar “prove-it deal” profile that worked with Harris. The Lions should be balanced with their free agency plan, and it’s possible Harris’ market exceeds what they should be willing to pay.
If the Lions move to replace and not retain Harris, here are five free agent options to consider.