The Detroit Lions hosted four veteran free agents for visits on Monday, aiming to bolster their roster through strategic signings. These visits indicate the team’s proactive approach during the free agency period to enhance depth and experience across key positions.
Among the four players visiting were guard Ben Bartch, cornerbacks Roger McCreary and Rock Ya-Sin, as well as linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez. Of these, McCreary, Rodriguez, and Ya-Sin have reportedly already signed contracts with the Lions, reflecting the team’s prioritized needs in the secondary and linebacker spots.
Ben Bartch, a 28-year-old guard, was originally drafted in the fourth round by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020. He played under a four-year rookie contract valued at just over $4 million, which included a signing bonus of $763,615. After being released by Jacksonville, Bartch spent time on their practice squad before signing with the San Francisco 49ers, where he appeared in six games and made two starts in 2025.
Bartch’s journey has featured multiple short-term contracts, including one-year deals with the 49ers in successive offseasons. His recent release shortly after training camp was followed by a re-signing, demonstrating teams’ interest in his versatility and experience. His visit with the Lions could signify continued opportunities to contribute on the offensive line.
The trio of signed players, Roger McCreary, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Rock Ya-Sin, bring valuable experience to the Detroit defense. McCreary and Ya-Sin, both cornerbacks, are expected to strengthen the Lions’ secondary coverage. Rodriguez, a linebacker, adds depth and physicality to the linebacker group, which is critical for both run defense and pass coverage schemes.
This concerted effort to bring in seasoned free agents aligns with the Lions’ broader strategy to reinforce roster areas that require veteran presence and proven talent. The combination of defensive backs and linebackers targeted in these visits reflects the organization’s emphasis on defensive improvement as a route to competitive success.
To summarize the recent moves:
1. Defensive Backs Signed: Roger McCreary (CB), Rock Ya-Sin (CB)
2. Linebacker Signed: Malcolm Rodriguez (LB)
3. Veteran Offensive Guard Visited: Ben Bartch (G)
By hosting multiple veterans in a single day, the Lions have demonstrated a detailed and focused evaluation process during free agency. These acquisitions could improve team depth and address positional gaps identified from last season’s performance.
As the offseason progresses, the effectiveness of these signings will become evident through training camp and preseason evaluations. The Lions’ front office continues to pursue experienced players who can provide immediate impact and leadership at crucial positions on the field.
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