Lions Bring Back Teddy Lehman

Linebacker Teddy Lehman was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier this week, and in fitting fashion, he has signed with the Lions.  Lehman was only with Tampa Bay since March after spending four seasons with Detroit, but it does technically mean that the Lions have brought in yet another former Buccaneer.

Lehman will bring added depth to the linebacker position at multiple positions.  He can play in the middle if needed, but primarily will be used as a strong side LB.  He already knows the system, so that is also a plus as there is no learning curve.  Here is some more background info on Lehman:

Lehman, 26, was drafted by the Lions in the second round out of Oklahoma in 2004. He started at strong-side linebacker in his rookie season and played more plays than any Lion defensive player. Injuries struck in 2005, and Lehman's playing time was drastically curtailed the next three years.

If Lehman can stay healthy, then I would expect him to have a very good chance at making the team.  It was expected that he would make the Buccaneers as well, but his release is assumed to have to do with money rather than talent.

There is no real downside to this signing as Lehman has experience in this defense, adds much needed depth, and is better than Alfred Fincher, who was cut to make room on the roster for Lehman.