11
Lions Bolster Defensive Line with Sneaky Ben Stille Signing
Detroit Lions Sign Defensive Tackle Ben Stille: What You Need to Know
What Happened?
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Detroit Lions have signed free agent defensive tackle Ben Stille. This move adds depth to Detroit’s defensive line as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Who Is Ben Stille?
Ben Stille is a 6-foot-4, 296-pound defensive lineman who played college football at the University of Nebraska (the Cornhuskers). Despite his size and college production, he wasn’t selected in the NFL Draft. Instead, he entered the league as an undrafted free agent—a player who signs with a team after the draft without being picked.
Important Point:
Undrafted free agents often have to work harder to make a roster. Stille has spent four years proving he belongs in the NFL.
His NFL Journey: A Road Map
Stille’s career has been a journey across multiple teams. Here’s a timeline of his stops:
- Miami Dolphins (2021) – Signed as an undrafted free agent; played in 7 games as a rookie.
- Cleveland Browns – Brief stint.
- Arizona Cardinals – First stay.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Short time on roster.
- Arizona Cardinals – Returned for a second stint.
- Miami Dolphins – Back for a second stint.
- Atlanta Falcons (2025) – Spent the last couple months of the 2025 season on the practice squad.
Note: A practice squad is a group of players who practice with the team but don’t play in games unless promoted to the active roster.
What Does He Bring to the Table?
Career Stats (as of signing)
- Games Played: 18
- Starts: 1
- Sacks: 2.0
Playing Style & Build
- Prototypical "Three-Technique" Build: At 6’4", 296 lbs, Stille fits the three-tech role—a defensive tackle who lines up on the outside shoulder of the guard and uses quickness to penetrate the backfield.
- Versatility: He also has experience kicking out to the edge (playing defensive end), giving the Lions flexibility in their defensive schemes.
ELI5 Explanation:
Think of a three-tech like a sprinter lined up in the middle of the line—his job is to burst through gaps and disrupt the play. Kicking to the edge means he can also line up wider, like a defensive end, to rush the quarterback from the outside.
Why This Signing Matters Now
The Lions’ defensive line took a hit during Thursday’s practice:
- Mekhi Wingo left with a groin injury.
- Tyler Lacy also left early; no update on his condition yet.
Important Callout:
While the team hasn’t confirmed the signing is directly tied to these injuries, adding a healthy, experienced body like Stille provides immediate insurance and competition at defensive tackle.
Summary
- The Detroit Lions signed DT Ben Stille (per Adam Schefter).
- Stille is a former Nebraska Cornhusker with 4 years of NFL experience across 6 teams.
- He’s played 18 games, started 1, and has 2.0 career sacks.
- At 6’4", 296 lbs, he’s a three-tech tackle with edge-rushing versatility.
- The signing comes as Mekhi Wingo (groin) and Tyler Lacy left practice early—adding depth at a critical time.
FAQ
Who is Ben Stille?
A 6’4", 296-lb defensive tackle from Nebraska who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2021. He’s bounced around several teams but has 18 games of NFL experience.
What is a "three-technique" defensive tackle?
A defensive tackle who lines up on the outside shoulder of the offensive guard. Their job is to use speed and leverage to shoot gaps and disrupt plays in the backfield.
Why did the Lions sign him now?
Likely due to injuries to Mekhi Wingo (groin) and Tyler Lacy at practice. Stille adds experienced depth and can play multiple spots on the line.
What is a practice squad?
A group of up to 16 players who practice with the team but don’t count toward the 53-man roster. They can be promoted to the active roster during the season.
Can Stille make the final 53-man roster?
He has a legitimate shot. His versatility (inside and outside), NFL experience, and the current injury situation give him a strong opportunity to stick.
