The Detroit Lions have primarily focused on budget-friendly signings during this offseason, aiming to navigate a constrained salary cap while uncovering underappreciated talent. Although this approach has faced significant criticism, particularly regarding defensive changes, the new offensive acquisitions appear to be more justified and constructive.
This is particularly evident in how the Lions have bolstered their skill positions. The additions of running back Isiah Pacheco, tight end Tyler Conklin, and wide receiver Greg Dortch are all economical decisions with the potential for significant returns exceeding their current valuation.
RB Isiah Pacheco — One Year, $1.81 Million (Fully Guaranteed)
Contract terms source: Aaron Wilson
- Salary: $1.81 million (fully guaranteed)
- Cap hit: $1.81 million
Pacheco’s contract is straightforward, featuring a fully guaranteed salary of $1.81 million. He takes over for David Montgomery, who would have cost the Lions nearly $8.4 million against the cap in 2026. Although Detroit is still accounting for $4.86 million in dead money from Montgomery’s trade, Pacheco’s deal ultimately saves the team around $1.7 million compared to retaining Montgomery.
While Pacheco carries an injury risk, the expectation is that his recovery from a fractured fibula will restore his former explosiveness. With a cap hit ranking 43rd among running backs, this signing represents a low-risk investment with considerable upside, although it may still be viewed as a step back from Montgomery.
TE Tyler Conklin — One Year, $1.3 Million
Contract terms source: Aaron Wilson
- Salary: $1.3 million
- Cap hit: $1.075 million
Detroit is utilizing the “veteran salary benefit” under the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Conklin’s contract. This provision allows teams to sign a veteran with four or more accrued seasons at minimum wage, with the cap hit reflecting a minimum salary based on a player with just two years of experience. Conklin, an eight-year veteran, has a minimum salary of $1.3 million, but is counted at just $1.075 million against the cap.
Given that only the top-51 contracts impact the salary cap, Conklin’s minimal hit is nearly negligible. He brings a solid track record, having recorded at least 50 catches and 400 yards for four straight seasons prior to a down year with the Chargers. As a potential TE3 pushing for a TE2 role, this signing appears to be an excellent deal for Detroit.
WR Greg Dortch — One Year, $1.402 Million
Contract terms source: Aaron Wilson
- Salary: $1.215 million ($1.075 million guaranteed)
- Game bonuses: $162,500
- Workout bonus: $25,000
- Cap hit: $1,214,706
The Lions are adopting the same veteran salary benefit for Dortch’s contract as they did with Conklin. Although his total salary is $1.215 million, only $1.075 million counts against the cap. The additional incentives have slightly raised the cap hit while remaining within the maximum limit allowed by the veteran salary benefit provision.
Dortch is perceived as a replacement for Kalif Raymond, so let’s compare their contracts: Dortch has a cap hit of $1.215 million compared to Raymond’s $3.47 million. Although Raymond has a more established career, the Lions’ strategy to bring in younger, cheaper talent while still adding capable players seems to be a wise move.
Raymond, turning 32 in August, recently had his least effective year as a punt returner and has seen limited success in receiving yards over the past two seasons. In contrast, Dortch, at 28, delivered a career-high average in punt returns last year and has experience with the Lions’ new offensive coordinator, Drew Petzing. Although Raymond remains a valuable asset, Detroit’s push for younger and more economical talent appears well-executed.
