The Detroit Lions are letting go of EDGE James Houston ahead of the Week 13 matchup with the Chicago Bears. Numerous reports of Houston’s release were confirmed by Lions head coach Dan Campbell.
It’s a disappointing end to three star-crossed seasons in Detroit for Houston. A late-round pick out of Jackson State, Houston initially failed to make Detroit’s roster as a rookie in 2022. But midway through the season, Houston earned reps and quickly proved a very effective pass rusher.
Houston stampeded to eight sacks in six weeks to cap the 2022 season. He wasn’t able to sustain the success, unfortunately.
He played his way down the depth chart the following summer, and Houston then suffered a severe ankle injury playing special teams early in 2023.
After another uninspiring offseason, Houston was a surprise to make the Lions in 2024. His inability to generate pressure in limited reps led to the EDGE-needy Lions pulling the plug after the Week 12 win over the Colts
“It just didn’t (work out),” Lions coach Dan Campbell said. “We had James up for a number of games, came back off the injury and got back, and it just never quite worked out. And look, wish him the best of luck. Sometimes you just need a fresh start, and this could be great for him.”
