Report: Commanders organization loses another piece for the Lions
A different Detroit Lions employee is flying out to the nation’s capital.
Anthony Pittman, a linebacker and valuable special team player, is set to leave Detroit after four seasons and join the Washington Commanders, according to a report from NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero on Thursday.
At this time, Pittman’s deal’s terms are unknown. This offseason, the Lions made a significant investment in a special teams linebacker when they extended All-Pro Jalen Reeves-Maybin, who led the league in special teams tackles (14) for a potential $8 million over two years.
Pittman, a Wayne State football player and Birmingham Groves alum, was signed by the Lions in 2019 as an undrafted free agent. Following the majority of his rookie campaign on the practice squad, he participated in all 17 games for Detroit over the next three seasons, totaling 1,099 special teams snaps (151 on defense) and 27 tackles. In 2023, Pittman was involved in 80% of Detroit’s special teams plays.
Lance Newmark, a former senior director of player personnel, was hired by the Commanders earlier this offseason to serve as Washington’s assistant general manager under new general manager Adam Peters. Zach Ertz, a tight end who joined Detroit during the playoffs and participated in the team’s NFC Championship loss to San Francisco, was also signed by the Commanders.
