The Detroit Lions are bringing back the entire offensive line from the 2021 team, the brightest position group on the roster. Reserve guard/center Evan Brown will be back in 2022.
Brown was slated to become a restricted free agent this week, but the Lions agreed to terms on a deal that will keep the valuable backup and fill-in starter in Detroit for another season. Terms were not immediately disclosed, but several reports indicate it’s a one-year contract.
Brown proved his value by starting 12 games for injured center Frank Ragnow and playing well. The 25-year-old allowed just one sack and had the second-highest pass blocking grade from Pro Football Focus amongst NFC centers. He was expected to receive interest from other teams despite being restricted in free agency.
Brown’s return keeps the line intact. All five starters are under contract through 2023, and Brown joins Matt Nelson, Ryan McCollum (signed last week), Dan Skipper, Tommy Kraemer and Logan Stenberg under contract as reserves.
