Detroit Lions sign DE Derrick Moore

The signing of Derrick Moore earns a C+ Contract Value Index (CVI), reflecting a modest but sensible rotational addition that fits the financial profile of a developmental depth piece rather than a proven commodity. Moore arrives as an EDGE rusher, a position where production separates the contracts worth celebrating from the ones worth monitoring, and at this stage of his career the tape and track record don't yet command premium investment. At a $2.86M AAV against a total commitment of roughly $11.4M, this is structured as a low-risk floor deal — the kind Detroit can absorb without significant cap distress if Moore doesn't develop into a consistent contributor. The CVI lands in neutral territory because the contract isn't an overpay, but it also doesn't scream elite value extraction — it's a bet on upside rather than a reward for proven performance. What keeps the grade from climbing higher is the absence of demonstrated production that would justify confidence in the outcome; Detroit is paying for potential, not productivity. The timing in the offseason, coming off a 9-8 campaign and with the regular season still months away, gives Moore legitimate runway to compete for a role during training camp and preseason rather than being immediately shelved as depth. If he flashes pass-rush ability during the summer, this CVI could look conservative in hindsight — but for now, it reads as exactly what it is: a measured, low-ceiling swing on a player the organization clearly believes fits what they're building on the defensive front.