Detroit Lions Roster News 2016: Geoff Schwartz Joins Team to Boost Offensive Line
The New York Giants thought Geoff Schwartz wasn't that valuable that they decided to cut him as part of the move to obtain cap flexibility. And after spending the last two years in New York, the offensive lineman will now strut his stuff with the Detroit Lions, who gave him a one-year contract to boost their offensive line.
It was a smart business decision for the Giants to release the offensive guard because they couldn't make use of him after suffering different injuries in his time with the team, including a broken toe, broken ankle, and finally a broken left leg last season. He was supposed to be part of the Giants' core after they gave him a four-year contract for $16.8 million before the start of the 2014 season.
The Lions definitely understand the kind of risk they're taking in signing him, which is probably why he's only given a one-year deal, at least for now. However, his talent is undeniable and he is the type of player who can contribute when he's healthy. So the only thing he needs to make sure this season is keeping himself on the field. If he is able to do that, a better and longer contract is in store for him.
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Signing Schwartz also makes sense even though Detroit already has a formidable guard lineup with Laken Tomlinson and Larry Warford. That's because the 24-year old Warford is no stranger to hurting himself, too, and Schwartz is somehow going to be a good backup for the youngster. Well, the team needs him to provide depth for them, particularly in the offensive line. The decision not to re-sign Manny Ramirez could have been costly for them, but Schwartz's presence is expected to compensate for the loss. He will be competing with mainstays Lamar Holmes and Michael Ola for the right tackle position, although he also might be tasked to play center.
