The Detroit Lions took a shocking move before of their game against the Baltimore Ravens by benching starting edge rusher and defensive
captain Charles Harris due to his sluggish start this season. This choice has various consequences
for the squad, particularly given their early-season injuries and evolving defensive plans
Harris had a slow start to the season, earning only 1.5 sacks and four quarterback hits on 227 defensive snaps
This poor performance sparked questions about his position on the depth chart, which eventually led to his benching.
The Lions made this change before their game against the Ravens on October 22, ostensibly to improve their defensive performance.
Harris's demotion puts more pressure on second-year edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who is expected to step up and play a bigger role.
This decision may also allow other Lions bench players to play a larger role in the defence, particularly given the team's recent string of early-season injuries.
In response to Harris' benching, the Lions activated defensive lineman Josh Paschal, who had been placed on injured reserve due to an earlier injury.