Former Detroit Lions’ Pro Bowl defensive end Ezekiel Ansah is still without a team, but it seems like that could change pretty soon. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport, Seattle Seahawks have emerged as favorites to land Ansah and are expected to come forward with an official contract offer to the 29-year-old in the coming days.
Ansah visited several teams since free agency kicked off, and has sparked interest from Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, and Buffalo Bulls. The Bills are thought to be still in the game for his services and might counter Seattle’s offer.
Ezekiel Ansah was fifth overall pick by Detroit Lions in 2013 and is well appreciated defensive presence despite his inconsistency over the years. During his six seasons in Detroit, Ansah played 80 games and managed 218 tackles alongside 48.0 sacks, 10 forced fumbles, and 110 QB hits. He was named into PFWA All-Rookie Team while earning Pro Bowl appearance and Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2015.
The reason why Ansah remained on the free market for so long is that he has a history with shoulder issues, which limited him to only seven games in 2018, and teams wanted to gather more intel on his health. According to most recent medical reports, there is no structural damage to Ansah’s shoulder but he will need to rebuild strength. He is expected to be cleared for contact in August.
