Anthony Pittman, a former linebacker for the Detroit Lions, is heading out after five seasons. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that the special teamer is allegedly signing with the Washington Commanders.
Given Pittman’s ties to Detroit, this development is a little unexpected. Pittman attended Wayne State after being born in Michigan. He had opted to stay at home over other options, having signed multiple deals with the Lions in the past.
The Lions also had some affection for Pittman. Even though they decided against offering Pittman a restricted free agency tender, which would have cost them $2.985 million, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press reports that they were attempting to come to an understanding with Pittman.
“The Lions also do not plan to tender linebacker Anthony Pittman a contract, but are working on a deal to bring him back for 2023 [sic],” Birkett wrote last week.
Given that Lance Newmark, a former senior director of player personnel for the Lions, is currently serving as the Commanders’ assistant general manager in Washington, it should come as no surprise that the Commanders are considering Pittman.
Regarding their linebacking corps, the Lions are still in a fairly comfortable position, despite the loss of a special team player that should not be disregarded. Malcolm Rodriguez, Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, Alex Anzalone, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin can all play defense, and all but Barnes have contracts that expire in the next two seasons.
Over five seasons with the Lions, Pittman made 52 game appearances, two starts, and totaled 28 tackles, one pass defensed, and three quarterback hits. No player had more special teams snaps for the Lions over the past two seasons.
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