Detroit Lions Urged to Bring Back Old Friend to Bolster Defense

His best season came in 2023, when he posted:

• 110 tackles
• 5 tackles for loss
• 2 interceptions
• 5 passes defended

That’s the version of Tavai the Lions would be getting—not the young, inconsistent player from his first stint.

A potential short-term solution

Detroit’s linebacker room has talent, but it’s still sorting itself out.

Payton suggests Tavai could step in at the Will linebacker spot, providing a steady presence while younger players like Jimmy Rolder continue to develop.

At minimum, he would bring real competition to training camp.

At best, he could start early in the season.

Why this move makes sense

This isn’t about nostalgia.

It’s about fit and value.

Tavai:

• Knows the league
• Has proven he can produce
• Brings physicality and experience
• Would come at a reasonable cost

And for a team looking to contend, those boxes matter.

The bottom line

Jahlani Tavai isn’t a flashy name.

But he’s a reliable one.

And if the Lions are serious about adding depth and competition to their defense, bringing back a player who has already proven he belongs might be one of the smarter moves they can make.

Sometimes, a second chance works out better than the first.