Detroit Lions linebacker Zach Cunningham is seizing a significant opportunity with the team as he gears up for training camp. Head coach Dan Campbell highlighted Cunningham's extensive experience and athleticism, noting his role in special teams and defensive units. With a solid performance displayed against Lions tight end Sam LaPorta during spring practices, Cunningham's adaptability and instincts position him as a crucial asset in the competition for a roster spot. He faces stiff competition from other linebackers, but his previous experience from stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and Denver Broncos enhances his profile.

Detroit Lions are facing challenges as six players, including star names like left tackle Taylor Decker, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, have been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list ahead of training camp. This development raises concerns about their readiness for the upcoming season, particularly as McNeill and Rodriguez are recovering from substantial injuries.

Decker's addition to the PUP list is particularly surprising, as his injury details remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, McNeill and Rodriguez, both recovering from ACL tears last season, are expected to miss a significant portion of the year. The Lions appear to have depth at linebacker, having signed Grant Stuard and Zach Cunningham, while the defensive line received reinforcements with the addition of Roy Lopez. The departure of Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow, who has officially retired, adds to the offensive line's challenges.

The San Francisco 49ers face a dilemma as they ponder the potential return of linebacker Eric Kendricks, who previously backed out of a deal to sign with them last offseason. After selecting a linebacker in the third round of this year's draft, the team appears focused on developing youth at the position. However, the departure of Dre Greenlaw leaves a gap that Kendricks, now with the Dallas Cowboys, could fill adequately.

Kendricks had a productive season with 94 tackles but showed weaknesses in coverage, limiting his effectiveness. With Fred Warner remaining as a stalwart on defense, the 49ers could still benefit from Kendricks's experience, especially in run defense. The question remains: can they afford to bring him back, or will they rely on younger options to step up?

Zach Cunningham has officially joined the Detroit Lions as part of their 2025 roster. The former Houston Texans linebacker will be competing for a spot behind starters Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone. At 30 years of age, Cunningham, a second-round draft pick from Vanderbilt in 2017, has shown an impressive ability as a tackling machine, leading the NFL in tackles in 2020 with 164 and consistently posting over 100 tackles in multiple seasons.

Despite his previous success in Houston, Cunningham's journey through the NFL has seen him play for several teams. His return to a starting role may provide valuable depth for the Lions' defense, especially with recent draft acquisitions aiming to solidify the linebacker group. As he prepares for training camp, his performance will be key in determining his role on the team.

The Denver Broncos have re-signed 11 of their in-house free agents while seven have departed for other teams. The only remaining unsigned free agent is offensive lineman Quinn Bailey, who has spent six years in Denver since joining as an undrafted free agent from Arizona State. Bailey's ability to recover from a season-ending ankle injury might determine his future with the team.

Notable departures include CB Tremon Smith to the Houston Texans and LB Cody Barton to the Tennessee Titans. The Broncos' roster currently stands at 91 following a roster exemption for punter Jeremy Crawshaw.