Where The Lions Roster Stands: Defense, Special Teams

Just as we did yesterday with the offense, today we are taking a look at where the Detroit Lions defense and special teams stand going into the offseason. After the jump you can check out a rundown of each position with the players divided up based on if they are under contract or if they are set to become a free agent this offseason. This will serve as a general overview of the defense and special teams as we get set to take a more in-depth look at each unit in the coming weeks.

Defensive End

Under contract: Kyle Vanden Bosch (through 2013), Lawrence Jackson (through 2012), Willie Young (through 2012), Ugo Chinasa (futures deal)

Free agents: Cliff Avril (UFA)

Defensive Tackle

Under contract: Ndamukong Suh (through 2014 with club option for 2015), Corey Williams (through 2012), Nick Fairley (through 2014)

Free agents: Sammie Hill (RFA), Andre Fluellen (UFA)

Linebacker

Under contract: Justin Durant (through 2012), Doug Hogue (through 2014), Slade Norris (futures deal)

Free agents: Stephen Tulloch (UFA), DeAndre Levy (RFA), Bobby Carpenter (UFA), Ashlee Palmer (RFA), Isaiah Ekejiuba (UFA), Cody Brown (ERFA)

Cornerback

Under contract: Chris Houston (through 2012), Aaron Berry (through 2012), Alphonso Smith (through 2012), Don Carey (through 2012), Ross Weaver (futures deal)

Free agents: Eric Wright (UFA), Brandon McDonald (UFA)

Safety

Under contract: Louis Delmas (through 2012), Amari Spievey (through 2012), John Wendling (through 2013), Ricardo Silva (through 2012)*

Free agents: Chris Harris (UFA), Erik Coleman (UFA)

Kicker

Under contract: Jason Hanson (through 2012)

Free agents: None

Punter

Under contract: Ryan Donahue (through 2013)

Free agents: Ben Graham (UFA)

Long Snapper

Under contract: None

Free agents: Don Muhlbach (UFA)

*Hat tip to Dave Birkett for the heads up on Silva, as I could not find contract information for him anywhere.