Ex-Lion Already Making Strong Case to Join Final Roster with New Team

We’re one Detroit Lions preseason game away from the start of the regular season. It’s been a long offseason, as the shocking defeat at the hands of the Washington Commanders still looms over fans’ heads.

But this season is a new season. Even though the Lions lost both their coordinators, they still have Dan Campbell and most of the core players from last season. No question, they’ll still be a threat in the NFC, especially since they were active in the offseason.

One area they needed to improve was the depth on defense, as they suffered costly injuries last season. They did just that by adding Roy Lopez, Avonte Maddox, and Rock Ya-Sin. 

Having quality depth on defense is important for all teams, and this former Lion has made a strong case to become one with the Dallas Cowboys. 

James Houston Is Making a Strong Case with the Cowboys

James Houston had an outstanding performance for the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday. In 43 snaps, Houston recorded two quarterback hits and four total tackles, earning a 66.8 overall grade per PFF. 

Houston, 26, signed with the Cowboys before the start of training camp. Before signing with the Cowboys, Houston was selected by the Lions in the sixth round of the 2022 draft.

Houston’s start to his career was unprecedented, becoming the third player in NFL history to start his career with a four-game sack streak. In just seven games, Houston recorded eight sacks and seven tackles for loss.

However, his fantastic start would be the only bright spot in his Lions tenure. Houston's 2023 season ended just two games into the season after suffering a leg injury. Since then, Houston has never been the same player, recording just one sack with the Lions in 2024 before being released. 

He would sign with the Browns afterwards, appearing in three games. Now, with a fresh start, Houston is making the most of his opportunities with the Cowboys and has a real shot to make the team. 

The Cowboys lost their all-time leader in sacks this offseason, DeMarcus Lawrence, and have yet to strike a deal with Micah Parsons. The Cowboys could use all the help they can get at edge rusher, and Houston could end up making the roster as a depth piece.