Jeff Backus has started all 176 games at left tackle for the Lions since he was Matt Millen’s first draft pick in 2001. And now Backus is back for more.
The Lions have announced that Backus, an unrestricted free agent, has signed a two-year contract.
Backus had an up-and-down season in 2011, and there was talk that the Lions would seek an upgrade at left tackle in free agency. And it’s still possible that they will, or that they’ll draft a potential starting left tackle. But for now Backus can be penciled in at the same place he’s been for 11 years, as the starting left tackle.
Although Backus suffered a torn biceps in the Lions’ playoff loss to the Saints, he is expected to be healthy in plenty of time for training camp.