The Detroit Lions seemed to have discovered a breakout star in James Houston, who recorded eight sacks in just seven games during one of the most impressive rookie seasons in team history.
Nearly two years later, Houston’s time in Detroit has abruptly ended.
On November 26, the team announced Houston’s release, marking a surprising conclusion for the edge rusher, who struggled to recapture his rookie-year success and appeared to lose favor with the coaching staff. Lions head coach Dan Campbell offered little insight into the decision, simply noting it didn’t work out.
“It just didn’t. We had James up for a number of games, came back off of injury, got back, and it just never quite worked out,” Campbell said, as reported by The Detroit News.
Houston’s Decline After Breakout Year
Houston’s decline began in his second season when he suffered a broken ankle in Week 2. Though he returned for the NFC Championship game, he played just 11 snaps.
According to Nolan Bianchi of The Detroit News, Houston struggled to develop as a more versatile linebacker capable of performing in rushing situations.
“In training camp before this season, the Lions continued to try to improve other parts of Houston’s game but eventually gave up on the experiment, allowing him to just focus on rushing the passer,” Bianchi wrote.
“He has 13 pressures and just one sack in 2024, even with there being a clear vacancy on the edge following several key injuries.”
Though some insiders speculated that Houston might not make the roster, he earned a spot but saw limited playing time as the season progressed.
Lions Turn to New Edge Rusher
Houston appeared poised for a larger role in October after star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson fractured his leg, an injury expected to sideline him for the season. Instead, the Lions traded for Cleveland Browns defensive lineman Za’Darius Smith to fill the gap.
Smith made an immediate impact, recording a sack, two hurries, and three pressures in just 26 snaps against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Campbell praised Smith’s performance after the game.
“I thought he did some good things for us. It was good to have him out there,” Campbell said, per SI.com. “He’s instinctive, doesn’t stay blocked long, and is really good with his hands.
He can set an edge in the run game and work gains well with (Lions defensive lineman Alim McNeill) ‘Mac’ and (defensive lineman DJ) Reader. I think he fits right in with us.”
