The Lions have added more depth to a defensive line that already has a good deal of starpower, signing Israel Idonije to a one-year contact, a league source told PFT’s Mike Florio on Tuesday.
The 6-foot-6, 275-pound Idonije looks like a solid fit for Detroit. He made starts at left end and defensive tackle for Chicago in 2012, and such flexibility will suit him well playing for Lions DL coach Jim Washburn, a proponent of rotating linemen to keep them fresh.
The 32-year-old Idonije notched 48 tackles and 7.5 sacks for the Bears a season ago, making 11 starts. Per Pro Football Focus, he played 514 snaps at end and 212 snaps at tackle in 2012.
The Lions have a different look at defensive end after losing Cliff Avril in free agency and releasing Kyle Vanden Bosch. However, they have restocked the ranks at the position. Ex-Seahawk Jason Jones, like Idonije, can play end and tackle. Also, rookie Ezekiel Ansah, the No. 5 overall pick, is a young rush prospect with promise.
Now, after wrapping up their offseason work, the Lions have brought in Idonije, who strengthens their hand at both line positions.