How big of a signing was adding Robert Ayers?

A month ago, the Detroit Lions added Ricky Jean Francois to the team just before they opened for training camp. At the time, the move was considered fairly minor. While the Lions certainly needed help at defensive tackle, Francois was a guy that has played for several different teams over the past few years, and was considered on the decline at 31 years old.

But Francois has looked five years younger in camp. He quickly assumed a starting role with the team, and has been one of the best players throughout the preseason. Throw in his desire to teach Matt Patricia’s defensive scheme to his peers, and Francois has turned out to be one of the most important additions the team has made this…