Roy Lopez: Everything you need to know

Lopez signed a two-year, $11.5 million contract with the Cardinals on Monday that includes $7 million guaranteed, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Lopez served in a rotational role on the defensive line for the Lions in 2025, but the 2021 sixth-rounder could serve in a larger role with the Cardinals if Calais Campbell -- who is an unrestricted free agent -- does not return. Lopez recorded 30 tackles (11 solo), including 2.0 sacks, and one pass defense across 17 regular-season games for Detroit in 2025. It'll be his second stint in Arizona, having played with the Cardinals from 2023 to 2024.

Lopez recorded 30 tackles (11 solo), including 2.0 sacks, and one pass defensed across 17 regular-season games with the Lions in 2025. Lopez signed a one-year deal with Detroit before the 2025 season, and he retained a comparable role relative to the rest of his career. He logged over 400 defensive snaps for the second straight campaign while reaching at least 30 tackles for the fourth time in his five-year career. Lopez is set to become an unrestricted free agent again this offseason, and he should land another short-term deal.

The Lions agreed to terms with Lopez on a one-year, $4.65 million contract Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports. Lopez was a 2021 sixth-round pick by the Texans and spent two seasons in Houston before going to Arizona for his next two campaigns. In 2024, Lopez started a career-high 16 regular-season games for the Cardinals, logging 28 tackles (10 solo), including 1.0 sacks, three pass breakups and one fumble recovery. Lopez will provide experienced interior defensive line depth behind DJ Reader and Alim McNeill (knee) with the Lions.