Detroit Lions sign former Chargers guard Kenny Wiggins to 2-year, $5 million deal

The Detroit Lions have finally made a move on their offensive line, signing Chargers free agent Kenny Wiggins. The team announced the move on Thursday evening:

Wiggins started all 16 games for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2017 at right guard after rookie Forrest Lamp suffered a season ending injury in the preseason. The results were... not so good. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned an overall grade of just 38.3, good for 70th out of 77 qualifying guards.

However, the Lions will have some familiarity with Wiggins. Detroit Lions offensive line coach Jeff Davidson coached up Wiggins for one year with the Chargers in 2016. That year, Wiggins only made one start, but made 13 total game appearances.

As we’ve said with many of the Lions’ recent signings, Wiggins bring versatility to the team. With the Chargers, he has played both guard positions and even a little right tackle. Recently, though, he has focused on remaining a guard. He told ESPN earlier this year that he wanted to head into free agency that way:

“Me playing every game at guard and locking down the spot, and being able to show people that I can be an everyday starter -- go out there, stay healthy and be a contributor on our line -- I think that speaks volumes.”

The Lions will likely have a vacancy at left guard this offseason, seeing as Travis Swanson is not expected back and Graham Glasgow will more than likely slide over to center. However, it’s unclear if Wiggins is good enough to assume that role. The Lions are also reportedly visiting with veteran guard Matt Slauson on Friday, and he brings a little more of a proven record than Wiggins.

Whether it’s depth or legitimate competition for a starting job, the Lions have finally inked themselves an offensive lineman.

UPDATE: Dave Birkett has the contract terms: