James Houston’s time in Detroit has come to an end.
The Lions announced today that they have waived the pass rusher.
A sixth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Houston made his debut late in his rookie season.
The Florida/Jackson State product impressed during that stretch, recording eight sacks in seven games.
Detroit had high hopes for him in 2023, but a fibula injury limited him to just two appearances.
In 2024, Houston’s role has been inconsistent. Early in the season, he lost playing time to Marcus Davenport but began seeing more snaps after Aidan Hutchinson suffered an injury.
Over the past six games, Houston has been part of the rotation alongside players like Al-Quadin Muhammad, Za’Darius Smith, Isaac Ukwu, and Isaiah Thomas, all lining up opposite Josh Paschal.
Ultimately, Houston became the odd man out.
“It just never quite worked out,” head coach Dan Campbell said, as reported by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “And look, wish him the best of luck.
Sometimes you just need a fresh start, and this could be great for him, so wish him the best.”
Campbell’s remarks suggest that Houston is unlikely to rejoin the Lions via the practice squad.
Instead, the third-year player will now seek to revitalize his career with another team.
