Detroit Lions sign TE Miles Kitselman

The Lions' signing of tight end Miles Kitselman earns a C+ Contract Value Index (CVI), reflecting a pragmatic depth move priced reasonably for what the organization is acquiring. At $1.03M AAV over three years ($3.1M total), this is a replacement-level contract that doesn't carry upside risk or cap burden — the kind of ink-and-paper transaction that fills roster spots without demanding future resources. Kitselman slots in as a situational contributor rather than a featured receiving option, making the modest annual commitment appropriate for his role and limited ceiling. For a Lions team sitting at 9–8 and clinging to playoff position as the offseason unfolds, adding depth at tight end on a low-risk, short-money deal is sound roster management that doesn't compromise cap flexibility. The three-year structure suggests the front office is building incrementally rather than mortgaging future assets, a defensible stance given the team's current competitive window. The C+ CVI reflects neither value discovery nor overpayment — just a sensible, forgettable transaction that keeps the bench stocked without moving the needle.