Detroit Lions re-sign LT Jeff Backus

Detroit has reached a new 2-year deal with longtime LT Jeff Backus. The veteran hasn't missed a start since the Lions drafted him in the 1st round back in 2001. His reputation has taken some hits in recent seasons, but Backus remains a solid player. There's little chance for a team to upgrade at LT via free agency, so keeping Backus around makes plenty of sense. Continuity is at least as important on the O-line as it is anywhere on the football field. Of course, with Backus heading into his age-35 season, it also doesn't preclude Detroit from drafting his replacement.