:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/60491387/usa_today_10542808.0.jpg)
This time, the Detroit Lions appear to have gotten it done. After the two sides failed to come to an agreement back in March, the Lions and veteran defensive tackle Ricky Jean Francois have negotiated a deal, and the former Patriot has signed a one-year contract, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter:
Veteran DL Ricky Jean Francois has signed a 1-year deal with the Lions, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 25, 2018
Francois, 31, is a nine-year NFL veteran who has spent time with the 49ers, Colts, Packers, Patriots and Washington.
He most recently spent time with the Patriots and Detroit Lions new head coach Matt Patricia. In six regular season games, Francois amassed 10 tackles for the Patriots, then added another six and a sack in New England’s three postseason games.
At 6-foot-3, 313 pounds, Francois is a run-stuffing specialist and could potentially help the Lions’ compensate for the loss of Haloti Ngata this offseason. His veteran presence and experience under Patricia could help bring along some of the Lions younger players, like A’Shawn Robinson (assuming he’s not actually 40) and fourth-round rookie Da’Shawn Hand.
The team has yet to confirm the signing nor offer any contract details.