Lions bring in veteran defensive tackle amid training camp

The Detroit Lions have added experience to their defensive front by signing veteran defensive tackle Ben Stille to a one-year contract as training camp continues ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the move Friday on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Lions are signing veteran DT Ben Stille to a one-year deal.”

Stille, 28, enters his sixth NFL season after making his league debut with the Miami Dolphins in 2022. Since then, he has spent time with several organizations, including the Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals and most recently the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 2024 season.

The veteran has appeared in 18 career NFL games, recording 17 total tackles, including seven solo stops and 10 assisted tackles. He also has two sacks, one fumble recovery, one pass defended and 1.5 stuffs during his professional career.

The signing provides additional depth along Detroit’s defensive line as the team works through training camp and prepares for the start of the regular season. Veteran additions often become valuable during camp as teams manage injuries, evaluate younger players and build competition across the roster before finalizing the 53-man squad.

Stille has spent much of his NFL career moving between active rosters and practice squads, giving him familiarity with multiple defensive systems. His versatility and experience could help him compete for a rotational role or provide depth behind Detroit’s projected starters.

The Lions are looking to rebound after falling short of the postseason in 2025. Detroit finished 9-8 but missed the playoffs, ending a season that began with expectations of remaining among the NFC’s top contenders.

With training camp underway, the Lions continue to evaluate their roster before preseason action begins. Adding a veteran such as Stille gives the coaching staff another experienced option as the competition for roster spots intensifies ahead of Week 1.