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Grade Detroit Lions sign G Ben Bartch
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Sentiment Analysis
B
Positive
NegativeMixedPositive
Detroit adds veteran depth at guard with this unrestricted free agent signing. Five outlets covered the move, emphasizing Campbell's push for competition along the line. Bartch's 49ers tenure and college pedigree provide proven NFL experience at reasonable cost. Fans view this as a solid, low-risk depth move competing for snaps. Lions likely rotating guard options this spring as part of their O-line overhaul.
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Contract Value Index (CVI)
C+
Fair Value
OverpayFair ValueGreat Value
**Detroit Lions Add Depth with Ben Bartch Signing** The Detroit Lions have signed guard Ben Bartch to a $1.2M AAV deal, a move that earns a C+ grade from the Contract Value Index (CVI). This represents a reasonable investment in interior line depth, with the Lions paying market rate for a solid backup guard who can step in when needed. At $1.2M annually, Detroit isn't breaking the bank for Bartch, but they're also not getting a bargain for what projects as a middling contributor along the offensive line. The signing suggests the Lions prioritized experience and reliability over upside, adding a serviceable veteran who can provide competent snaps without demanding significant financial commitment. While this won't move the needle dramatically for Detroit's offensive line, it's the type of steady, unspectacular depth signing that helps teams navigate the inevitable injuries of a long NFL season.
Contract Details
- Length
- 1 year
- Total Value
- $1.2M
- AAV
- $1.2M
- Guaranteed
- $330K
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About this NFL transaction
The Detroit Lions signed Ben Bartch (G) on March 25, 2026. FanVerdicts covers every reported NFL move — and asks fans to weigh in on each one. Cast your Fan Verdict on this move, see where the crowd lands, and argue the call. FanVerdicts brings its own read too — sentiment and Contract Value Index — as one honest input alongside the crowd's. Where FanVerdicts has weighed in so far: Contract Value Index C+, Sentiment B.
Contract details below show the years, total value, average annual value, and guaranteed money behind the Contract Value Index read. That read does not change once written — it reflects market expectations at the moment of signing, recomputed only if the contract is restructured.
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