With training camp a week away, the Lions are finalizing their roster. Part of that process includes signing draft picks Ndamukong Suh and Jahvid Best, as well as bringing in a couple undrafted free agents for a workout and a physical. Today, though, that process included the signing of linebacker Isaiah Ekejiuba to a two-year deal.
The Detroit Lions have agreed to a two-year deal with free-agent linebacker and special teams ace Isaiah Ekejiuba, team spokesman Bill Keenist said.
Ekejiuba, 28, had 49 tackles, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery over the past five seasons with the Oakland Raiders.
Although Ekejiuba plays linebacker, he was drawing interest from teams after being released by the Raiders earlier this month because of his outstanding special teams play. He is so good that he was named an alternate to the Pro Bowl just for his play on special teams.
Considering that, it's not too surprising the Lions signed Ekejiuba. This offseason they have made a few moves to improve their play on special teams, including replacing the special teams coach and signing Landon Johnson and Dante Wesley, who are both pretty good on kick/punt coverage. That is an area the Lions need to improve on going forward, and Ekejiuba should definitely make the kick/punt coverage unit better.