Roy Lopez brings the kind of assignment-sound accountability that the Detroit Lions covet, but how can they get the most out of their newest defensive lineman?
In the thick of free agency, the Detroit Lions signed Roy Lopez, a defensive lineman formerly of the Arizona Cardinals . After learning a bit more about Lopez, it came as no surprise the Lions coveted a tough, high-motor player with a strong track record in the trenches. Lopez has proven himself as a stout run defender with the ability to anchor the interior defensive line, but what exactly are the Lions getting in Lopez?
To get the inside scoop, we spoke with Cardinals expert Seth Cox, Managing Editor for Revenge of the Birds , who followed Lopez’s career in Arizona. From his strengths as a run-stopper to his role in the defensive rotation, here’s everything you need to know about Detroit’s newest defensive lineman.
How did the Cardinals use Lopez specifically in their defense? What do you think is his best fit in terms of role and snap usage?
Lopez is an interior guy only. He lined up at nose tackle for 258 snaps, and interior defensive tackle for 168 snaps. So, he is an anchor in the middle, and someone you can count on for 45% snaps. I don’t know if in Detroit you necessarily want him that high, but he is a stout guy who can hold up against the run.
How would you describe Roy Lopez’s playing style, and what are his strengths as a defensive lineman?
Physical role player. He is not going to make plays, but he has the ability to maintain his assignments, he can two-gap and keep linebackers clean. He has a little pass rush juice, and I think if he is able to play maybe closer to 30% of the snaps, he can be a little better.
In what areas did Lopez struggle in his time with the Cardinals? Is there an opportunity for him to refine that part of his game, and how can the Lions put him in the best position to succeed here in Detroit?
Tackling. Obviously when you are a big space eater type, your tackling stats are not going to be important, however, Lopez has struggled to finish plays when he has a chance. Nine missed tackles last year, up from six the year before. I think so much of it has to do from overuse. Again, I love Lopez as a rotational defensive lineman, but having to start in Arizona is not ideal, and playing over 40% of snaps is not ideal. I think with a decreased workload you’ll see similar production, while playing less.
Lopez was a fan favorite in Arizona—do you have any insight into what made him such a well-liked player in the locker room and among fans?
There are two things to this. First, he is an incredibly hard worker who did what he was asked, showed up to play and made the most of his opportunities. Second, he is a local high school product, who came back home and played well for the pro team.
He will be an easy fit with the Lions team and fans will love his attitude and demeanor.
Are there any specific games or matchups from Lopez’s time in Arizona that best showcase his impact on the field?
His first game last season against Buffalo is what you would ideally ask of Lopez. He played 22 snaps, 14 against the run, eight against the pass. He had a great game.
The final game of last season, against San Francisco he played 26 snaps, 12 against the run and 14 against the pass, and had another really good game.
The ironic thing, combined in those games he had one sack, and one hurry. Yet, he was able to hold up, allow the linebackers to make plays and give the Cardinals a great effort inside.
I think that 20-30 snap role in Detroit will help Roy play the best ball of his career.