Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Thanks, a big fan of these breakdowns. Showcases how important not just coaches, but how the players themselves make it all work. As John 'Hannibal' Smith of the A Team used to say, "I love it when a plan comes together".
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2024 Detroit Lions: Draft complete. (12 Viewers)
- Thread starter Da Guru
- Start date
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Yeah, that channel is really informative. One of my favorite YTers.
Former high school defensive coordinator, diehard LT Ravens fan. Watching the Bills-Lions on Thanksgiving Day 2022 got him interested in James Houston IV and over the last month of the season he got sucked into the whole Detroit narrative. After the season finale in Lambeau, he decided to make his channel 50-50 Ravens/Lions bc he was so impressed with what Ben Johnson was doing and how well Jared Goff executes the scheme.
King of the Jungle
Footballguy
No problem, we all can have our own opinion. I do not think they are the greatest franchise ever, but I am pretty excited about the direction after decades of misery. Hopefully both of us will be able to enjoy seeing them hoist the trophy some day.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
PFF had a couple interesting articles come out over the weekend:
the Top 30 over 30, which contained zero Lions, and the Top 25 under 25. The distribution for the latter:
His 981 regular-season snaps as a rookie led all tight ends over the past six seasons by a significant margin. In addition, his overall and receiving grades are second to only Kyle Pitts’ rookie season over that span.
The Oregon product's 92.8 PFF overall grade and 95.1 PFF run-blocking grade both led all NFL offensive linemen in 2023.
the Top 30 over 30, which contained zero Lions, and the Top 25 under 25. The distribution for the latter:
- Atlanta Falcons - 2 players (ranked #16, #25)
- Baltimore Ravens - 2 (#5, #20)
- Buffalo Bills - 1 (#18)
- Cincinnati Bengals - 1 (#4)
- Dallas Cosboys - 1 (#15)
- Detroit Lions - 5 (#1, #6, #11, #19, #21)
- Denver Broncos - 1 (#13)
- Houston Texans - 3 (#7,#15, #23)
- Jacksonville Jaguars - 1 (#3)
- Kansas City - 1 (#10)
- Los Angeles Rams - 1 (#12)
- Miami Dolphins - 1 (#17)
- New Orleans Saints - 1 (#24)
- New York Jets - 2 (#2, #9)
- Philadelphia Eagles - 1 (#22)
- San Francisco 49ers - 1 (#8)
21. RB JAHMYR GIBBS, DETROIT LIONS
While he had a limited role initially, Gibbs got more and more playing time as the 2023 season wore on and became an electric playmaker for the Lions in the second half of his rookie campaign. Following Week 7 — after his return from injury — he earned a 78.0 PFF overall grade, which ranked 11th among running backs, while his 82.0 rushing grade tied for seventh at the position.19. TE SAM LAPORTA, DETROIT LIONS
Multiple first-round tight ends have faced high expectations in recent years. LaPorta, a second-round pick last year, was not one of them, but he arguably outplayed all rookie tight ends over the past decade.His 981 regular-season snaps as a rookie led all tight ends over the past six seasons by a significant margin. In addition, his overall and receiving grades are second to only Kyle Pitts’ rookie season over that span.
11. WR AMON-RA ST. BROWN, DETROIT LIONS
St. Brown, who will turn 25 during the 2024 season, proved in 2023 that his breakout 2022 campaign was not a fluke. He was one of just three wide receivers to earn PFF overall grades above 90.0 in both 2022 and 2023, with Tyreek Hill and Justin Jefferson being the other two. St. Brown has snagged 93.5% of his catchable targets over the past two seasons, which ranks second among wide receivers.6. EDGE AIDAN HUTCHINSON, DETROIT LIONS
Hutchinson flashed potential in his rookie season in 2022, but he brought his game to a whole new level in 2023. His 91.2 PFF pass-rushing grade placed fifth and trailed only an elite group of four players: Myles Garrett, Micah Parsons, Nick Bosa and T.J. Watt. Hutchinson's 110 total pressures during the regular season ranked second among edge defenders.1. T PENEI SEWELL, DETROIT LIONS
Although Sewell has already played three seasons in the NFL, he is still only 23 years old and will not turn 24 until October. His 3,359 regular-season snaps over the past three seasons rank second among all players, and he is on his way to becoming the best offensive lineman in the league.The Oregon product's 92.8 PFF overall grade and 95.1 PFF run-blocking grade both led all NFL offensive linemen in 2023.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
OTA Workouts:
The Athletic’s Colton Pouncey offers a preview of what to watch:
SEE NEXT POST for part 2.
Article continues in next post
- Week 1: May 21-23
- Week 2: May 29-31
- Week 3: June 10-12
The Athletic’s Colton Pouncey offers a preview of what to watch:
Players to watch at Lions OTAs: Carlton Davis III, Jameson Williams and the rookies
SEE NEXT POST for part 2.
https://archive.ph/2024.05.20-11425.../2024/05/20/lions-2024-otas-players-to-watch/
NFL organized team activities (OTAs) get going this week, and for the Detroit Lions, it’ll be our first chance to see this roster together — free-agent signings, draft pick sand all.
On paper, this looks like one of the league’s best rosters. The Lions have a potent offense that returns most of its core. A defense that was still very much a work in progress last season added meaningful pieces this offseason, with hopes of finally breaking through under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. This is the most talented Lions team assembled during the Brad Holmes-Dan Campbell era, which is saying something considering Detroit played in the NFC Championship Game a few months ago.
Now the Lions look to get back, with a Super Bowl in mind.
Here’s what we’ll be watching as they begin their quest this week.
Cornerback Carlton Davis III was acquired from the Buccaneers for Detroit’s 2024 third-round pick. Perhaps a rich price for a corner on a one-year deal, but the Lions couldn’t afford to leave March without an upgrade at the position. On paper, they got one in Davis. He’s a true man corner with an alpha mentality, something this team hasn’t had under Glenn. They might have three now (more on that later). Davis is most comfortable challenging receivers at the line of scrimmage and has the short memory needed to play the position. Health hasn’t been on his side in recent years, but he’s a good player who fits what the Lions like to do. He’s a Day 1 starter.
The Lions really addressed the trenches in free agency. Defensive tackle DJ Reader is a space-eating nose tackle who makes things easier for those around him. He has a nonstop motor for a player of his size and plays with full-out effort. Playing next to Reader could get the most out of Alim McNeill, who’s already coming off a Pro Bowl-caliber season without much help in the interior. Right guard Kevin Zeitler replaces Jonah Jackson, and if you talk to Holmes and Campbell, they’ll tell you their offensive line improved. If true, paying Zeitler $6 million when Jackson landed $17 million from the Rams is a steal. He’s not a long-term answer, but he can be a high-quality bridge to the next. He’s coming off his first Pro Bowl appearance and is viewed as a strong guard in pass protection.
Marcus Davenport has been a productive player when healthy, and fits the description of a Lions type of edge — big, physical, can set an edge and play the run. The big question is health. Since his breakout nine-sack 2021 season — a year in which he played only 11 games — Davenport has just 2 1/2 sacks to his name and was a major disappointment for the Vikings last season, unable to stay healthy. Davenport has much to prove in what could be his last chance as a starter, and he’ll have competition with third-year edge Josh Paschal.
And, finally, the Lions have spoken highly about cornerback Amik Robertson this offseason. He’ll likely be CB2 when OTAs start because he’s a veteran with starting NFL experience. Don’t be fooled by his lack of size (5-feet-8, 187 pounds) — the Lions signed Robertson to compete on the outside. If one of these rookie corners wants a starting gig, he’ll have to take it from Robertson.
That brings us to our next topic.
NFL organized team activities (OTAs) get going this week, and for the Detroit Lions, it’ll be our first chance to see this roster together — free-agent signings, draft pick sand all.
On paper, this looks like one of the league’s best rosters. The Lions have a potent offense that returns most of its core. A defense that was still very much a work in progress last season added meaningful pieces this offseason, with hopes of finally breaking through under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. This is the most talented Lions team assembled during the Brad Holmes-Dan Campbell era, which is saying something considering Detroit played in the NFC Championship Game a few months ago.
Now the Lions look to get back, with a Super Bowl in mind.
Here’s what we’ll be watching as they begin their quest this week.
New free agents
The Lions have plenty of new faces added in free agency and the trade market, as the front office worked to fill needs with quality talent.Cornerback Carlton Davis III was acquired from the Buccaneers for Detroit’s 2024 third-round pick. Perhaps a rich price for a corner on a one-year deal, but the Lions couldn’t afford to leave March without an upgrade at the position. On paper, they got one in Davis. He’s a true man corner with an alpha mentality, something this team hasn’t had under Glenn. They might have three now (more on that later). Davis is most comfortable challenging receivers at the line of scrimmage and has the short memory needed to play the position. Health hasn’t been on his side in recent years, but he’s a good player who fits what the Lions like to do. He’s a Day 1 starter.
The Lions really addressed the trenches in free agency. Defensive tackle DJ Reader is a space-eating nose tackle who makes things easier for those around him. He has a nonstop motor for a player of his size and plays with full-out effort. Playing next to Reader could get the most out of Alim McNeill, who’s already coming off a Pro Bowl-caliber season without much help in the interior. Right guard Kevin Zeitler replaces Jonah Jackson, and if you talk to Holmes and Campbell, they’ll tell you their offensive line improved. If true, paying Zeitler $6 million when Jackson landed $17 million from the Rams is a steal. He’s not a long-term answer, but he can be a high-quality bridge to the next. He’s coming off his first Pro Bowl appearance and is viewed as a strong guard in pass protection.
Marcus Davenport has been a productive player when healthy, and fits the description of a Lions type of edge — big, physical, can set an edge and play the run. The big question is health. Since his breakout nine-sack 2021 season — a year in which he played only 11 games — Davenport has just 2 1/2 sacks to his name and was a major disappointment for the Vikings last season, unable to stay healthy. Davenport has much to prove in what could be his last chance as a starter, and he’ll have competition with third-year edge Josh Paschal.
And, finally, the Lions have spoken highly about cornerback Amik Robertson this offseason. He’ll likely be CB2 when OTAs start because he’s a veteran with starting NFL experience. Don’t be fooled by his lack of size (5-feet-8, 187 pounds) — the Lions signed Robertson to compete on the outside. If one of these rookie corners wants a starting gig, he’ll have to take it from Robertson.
That brings us to our next topic.
Article continues in next post
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Part 2 of 2
So, then, how soon can Arnold and Rakestraw crack the lineup? It all depends how they look this offseason. The Lions are more than willing to make room for a rookie in the starting lineup. They did it a year ago with Brian Branch, who forced out veteran safety and former team captain Tracy Walker. Glenn is going to field the best secondary based on practice play. If Arnold and/or Rakestraw prove that in the coming months, they’ll see the field.
Elsewhere, the path to playing time isn’t as clear, but that’s not a bad thing. Offensive tackle Giovanni Manu is expected to cross-train at guard and tackle. Sione Vaki will fight to be Detroit’s RB3, and is expected to be a mainstay on special teams. Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo might have the clearest path among the Lions’ Day 3 picks as a rotational defensive tackle who can provide a pass-rush spark early on. And sixth-round guard Christian Mahogany is a tough, competitive lineman who might not need much developing. As someone who really liked what the Lions did in this draft, it’ll be fun to see this group get some work in.
What can Sam LaPorta do for an encore? All he did in 2023 was break the all-time rookie tight end record for receptions in a season with 86. The Lions fed him early and often, on his way to a second-team All-Pro nod. Expect more of the same in 2024. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs was playing like one of the best backs in the league by the end of the season. The Lions were no longer managing his reps like they were early in the season. I’d expect that to continue. He’s earned the trust of the coaching staff and is one of the most explosive runners in the league.
Branch was everything the Lions needed — a competitive, sticky nickel who made an immediate impact. The Lions have discussed the idea of playing Branch at safety a bit more, trying to gauge if he’s ready for the mental responsibilities that come with the position. They tried it a little bit last year but thought it was best to let him settle in at nickel as a rookie. He might be ready now.
First-round pick Jack Campbell had his ups and downs, which can often be part of the process for young linebackers. The Lions thought he was too hard on himself at times last year, but that’s just how Campbell is wired. When the game slows down for him, the potential is still there for him to be an impact player. Talking to some folks at the combine, it’s clear the Lions are still extremely high on Campbell — mentioning his combination of size, length, physicality and range as reasons he was drafted.
Brodric Martin, Colby Sorsdal and Antoine Green will be depth, but the hope is that they, too, begin to figure things out with age. Martin was a project defensive tackle out of Western Kentucky, always viewed as a player who would need time. His blend of size and length (6-feet-5, 34 3/8-inch arms) at the nose tackle position was worth the investment for Holmes, and gives new defensive line coach Terrell Williams an upside piece to develop. Sorsdal was a tackle in college but made the move to guard in the NFL. He wasn’t ready as a rookie, but few fifth-rounders are. The hope is he can position himself to be in the mix for a starting job in 2025. As for Green, there’s an opportunity in the receiver room if he can take advantage with a good offseason.
You might be wondering about a certain quarterback from last year’s draft class who wasn’t mentioned. More on him … right now.
In the meantime, these offseason practices are crucial for Hooker’s development. He didn’t have them a year ago when he was recovering from a torn ACL. Reporters never got a chance to see him take reps against the defense in practice, thanks to the in-season practice viewing restrictions in place by the time he returned.
In the meantime, these offseason practices are crucial for Hooker’s development. He didn’t have them a year ago when he was recovering from a torn ACL. Reporters never got a chance to see him take reps against the defense in practice, thanks to the in-season practice viewing restrictions in place by the time he returned.
The Lions let Josh Reynolds walk in free agency, so now it’s Williams’ time. He’s a projected full-time starter for the first time in his career, slotting in as WR2 behind Amon-Ra St. Brown. And the Lions are going to need him. He’s going to get more reps, more targets, more opportunities to live up to the hype he entered the league with as the No. 12 pick in 2022. Time to take the training wheels off.
Additionally, the wide receivers at large will be a group to watch. Donovan Peoples-Jones has an 800-yard season under his belt, and is the closest thing to a prototypical X receiver on the roster. Will he be a starter? Or will the Lions turn to Kalif Raymond? How about former Saints receiver Tre’Quan Smith? Can Green be a factor? There are some questions here. It might take some time to get firm answers.
The rookie class
The obvious place to start when discussing Detroit’s 2024 draft classis with the two corners. The Lions made the unconventional move to double up on the same position with their first two draft picks, but when you consider how they operate and where their needs were, it really matches up. Terrion Arnold was the highest-ranked player on the board at 24, when the Lions eventually traded up for him. Holmes said he started making calls in the teens to get Arnold. As for Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Holmes tried to trade up early in the second round for him. He got him at No. 61. Holmes couldn’t believe either player was available for the Lions. They were the two best players on the board, and happened to play a position the Lions needed to address. When needs match up with best player available, it can be a beautiful thing.So, then, how soon can Arnold and Rakestraw crack the lineup? It all depends how they look this offseason. The Lions are more than willing to make room for a rookie in the starting lineup. They did it a year ago with Brian Branch, who forced out veteran safety and former team captain Tracy Walker. Glenn is going to field the best secondary based on practice play. If Arnold and/or Rakestraw prove that in the coming months, they’ll see the field.
Elsewhere, the path to playing time isn’t as clear, but that’s not a bad thing. Offensive tackle Giovanni Manu is expected to cross-train at guard and tackle. Sione Vaki will fight to be Detroit’s RB3, and is expected to be a mainstay on special teams. Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo might have the clearest path among the Lions’ Day 3 picks as a rotational defensive tackle who can provide a pass-rush spark early on. And sixth-round guard Christian Mahogany is a tough, competitive lineman who might not need much developing. As someone who really liked what the Lions did in this draft, it’ll be fun to see this group get some work in.
Second-year leaps
It’s scary to think the players from the Lions’ 2023 draft class can be even better than they were as rookies. Four players took on significant roles last year, with two making the Pro Bowl. But the Lions are counting on growth.What can Sam LaPorta do for an encore? All he did in 2023 was break the all-time rookie tight end record for receptions in a season with 86. The Lions fed him early and often, on his way to a second-team All-Pro nod. Expect more of the same in 2024. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs was playing like one of the best backs in the league by the end of the season. The Lions were no longer managing his reps like they were early in the season. I’d expect that to continue. He’s earned the trust of the coaching staff and is one of the most explosive runners in the league.
Branch was everything the Lions needed — a competitive, sticky nickel who made an immediate impact. The Lions have discussed the idea of playing Branch at safety a bit more, trying to gauge if he’s ready for the mental responsibilities that come with the position. They tried it a little bit last year but thought it was best to let him settle in at nickel as a rookie. He might be ready now.
First-round pick Jack Campbell had his ups and downs, which can often be part of the process for young linebackers. The Lions thought he was too hard on himself at times last year, but that’s just how Campbell is wired. When the game slows down for him, the potential is still there for him to be an impact player. Talking to some folks at the combine, it’s clear the Lions are still extremely high on Campbell — mentioning his combination of size, length, physicality and range as reasons he was drafted.
Brodric Martin, Colby Sorsdal and Antoine Green will be depth, but the hope is that they, too, begin to figure things out with age. Martin was a project defensive tackle out of Western Kentucky, always viewed as a player who would need time. His blend of size and length (6-feet-5, 34 3/8-inch arms) at the nose tackle position was worth the investment for Holmes, and gives new defensive line coach Terrell Williams an upside piece to develop. Sorsdal was a tackle in college but made the move to guard in the NFL. He wasn’t ready as a rookie, but few fifth-rounders are. The hope is he can position himself to be in the mix for a starting job in 2025. As for Green, there’s an opportunity in the receiver room if he can take advantage with a good offseason.
You might be wondering about a certain quarterback from last year’s draft class who wasn’t mentioned. More on him … right now.
QB Hendon Hooker
Yes, Jared Goff just signed the largest contract in franchise history last week. But if anything, that makes Hooker’s future all the more fascinating. Hooker turns 27 in January, toward the end of his second season. The Lions drafted him to be a high-upside backup with starting potential if needed, but now that he’s blocked by Goff for the foreseeable future, could a trade down the road be the best way to maximize his value? It’s an interesting discussion. Probably not one for the 2024 season, but perhaps when we get deeper into his rookie contract.In the meantime, these offseason practices are crucial for Hooker’s development. He didn’t have them a year ago when he was recovering from a torn ACL. Reporters never got a chance to see him take reps against the defense in practice, thanks to the in-season practice viewing restrictions in place by the time he returned.
In the meantime, these offseason practices are crucial for Hooker’s development. He didn’t have them a year ago when he was recovering from a torn ACL. Reporters never got a chance to see him take reps against the defense in practice, thanks to the in-season practice viewing restrictions in place by the time he returned.
WR Jameson Williams
What a difference a year makes, huh? Last April, Williams was suspended six games (later reduced to four) for violating the league’s gambling policy. He had some growing up to do before he cracked the lineup. Now, the Lions finally feel like he’s at a point where he can be a dependable starter.The Lions let Josh Reynolds walk in free agency, so now it’s Williams’ time. He’s a projected full-time starter for the first time in his career, slotting in as WR2 behind Amon-Ra St. Brown. And the Lions are going to need him. He’s going to get more reps, more targets, more opportunities to live up to the hype he entered the league with as the No. 12 pick in 2022. Time to take the training wheels off.
Additionally, the wide receivers at large will be a group to watch. Donovan Peoples-Jones has an 800-yard season under his belt, and is the closest thing to a prototypical X receiver on the roster. Will he be a starter? Or will the Lions turn to Kalif Raymond? How about former Saints receiver Tre’Quan Smith? Can Green be a factor? There are some questions here. It might take some time to get firm answers.
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
Exactly, the flashes have been there. This year
If he was drafted in the third rd
Smart moves to keep improving. Letting Jackson walk and getting Zeitler is one of the type of moves needed to keep roster upgraded and manage payroll cap. Todays NFL is all about "change" in the roster. Try to keep core players together and have interchangeable parts on 1-2 years deals.
Next year they will have to decide about Decker. Unless he takes a team friendly deal it will be time to move Sewell over to the LT spot and replace Decker. Holmes has already proven he can fill the needs.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Just my opinion a year away, but I think Decker is the age and type that will find a way to stay. I never got that vibe from Jackson.
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
Maybe, but Decker will be looking for one last big payday too. Lions are paying Sewell top LT money to play RT. Be tough to pay Decker too.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Like I said, just a gut opinion. Odds are probably not real good.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Decker spends his offseason in Arizona. Been a great Lion, senior man on the team (9th season), but if it doesn’t make sense for both sides…just a business decision.
Hope it works out but you cannot keep everyone. More worried about losing Alim. Penei shifts to LT, we can figure out how to fill the front side. But if McNeil walks, that’s a big L.
But you can’t begrudge these guys going for the bag. You’d do the same thing for your family given the opportunity.
Hope it works out but you cannot keep everyone. More worried about losing Alim. Penei shifts to LT, we can figure out how to fill the front side. But if McNeil walks, that’s a big L.
But you can’t begrudge these guys going for the bag. You’d do the same thing for your family given the opportunity.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Didn't realize it until I heard it on the radio just now, but that works out to 20% of the list on one of 32 teams.
And a good case could be made for Alim McNeil (24), Brian Branch (22) and Iffy (just turned 25).....BB may very well become our most impactful player on defense this year...but it would be a massive hyperbole to suggest Holmes is among the very best GMs in football and has produced three of the top 5 draft classes in Lions history.
msudaisy26
Footballguy
Salty
No...correct.
The idea that there is still a wait and see aspect to how good Dan and Brad are is silly. And to call Jamo a bust after two injury ridden and lame suspension is ridiculous. Jamo converted a very respectable 2/3 rds his targets the last half of the season and produced more than a few big plays. It is pretty simpleton logic to look at a guy with 100-1500-12 and say that guy is good. True fans know who the up and comers are, who is putting in the work, who the coaches have confidence in and is going to break out. There is not a single team in the league that would not want Jamo on their team.
msudaisy26
Footballguy
You are ridiculous with your insults and "true fan" crap. Since reading isn't your strong suit I will say it for the umpteenth time. Jamo has been a bust so far. It doesn't mean he will be, but not being prepared when he could play is his fault, getting suspended is his fault.
Another secret that real NFL people understand is you don't judge a draft class for 3 years. So I will stick with that. Last year's draft does look like an all time great one, but we will see after the 25/26 season.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Odd that you would judge a draft well before 3 years. Isn't that what "real NFL people understand"?
msudaisy26
Footballguy
I didn't judge it. I gave my initial reaction. It can change.
I can handle if I am wrong, or can change my mind. It is allowed among us non real fans.
kutta
Footballguy
I have Cardinals season tickets - pretty damn good seats.Anybody got $17K they want to put to work for 8 months? Pay ya back in mid-January.
DM if interested, I'll give you my bank routing info.
Behind the Visitors bench, figure I can resell 7-8 games to pay for the 1-2 I want to see. The one X game I'll give away
On a more serious note, the most affordable home options for me will be:
Best road prices are:
- Titans Week 8 Oct 27 1pm
- Jags Week 11 Nov 17 1pm
- Vikings Week 18 TBD TBD
Also looking at:
- at Colts Week 12 Nov 24 1pm
(could swing up to Michigan for Thanksgiving with the fam after the game)- at Bears Week 16 Dec 22 1pm
(then up the coast for a Grand Haven Christmas)
We can only afford to do one of these. Any thoughts?
- at Cardinals Week 3 September 22 4:25pm
- at Vikings Week 7 Oct 20 1pm
Hopefully we'll chose more wisely than last year (Baltimore....which was an amazing weekend despite the outcome.)
I may be able to swing you a free seat if you come out for that game.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
I have Cardinals season tickets - pretty damn good seats.Anybody got $17K they want to put to work for 8 months? Pay ya back in mid-January.
DM if interested, I'll give you my bank routing info.
Behind the Visitors bench, figure I can resell 7-8 games to pay for the 1-2 I want to see. The one X game I'll give away
On a more serious note, the most affordable home options for me will be:
Best road prices are:
- Titans Week 8 Oct 27 1pm
- Jags Week 11 Nov 17 1pm
- Vikings Week 18 TBD TBD
Also looking at:
- at Colts Week 12 Nov 24 1pm
(could swing up to Michigan for Thanksgiving with the fam after the game)- at Bears Week 16 Dec 22 1pm
(then up the coast for a Grand Haven Christmas)
We can only afford to do one of these. Any thoughts?
- at Cardinals Week 3 September 22 4:25pm
- at Vikings Week 7 Oct 20 1pm
Hopefully we'll chose more wisely than last year (Baltimore....which was an amazing weekend despite the outcome.)
I may be able to swing you a free seat if you come out for that game.
That’s a generous offer and I appreciate the gesture, truly. It’s looking like we’re going to do a long weekend in Chicago. Have friends & family there, and it’s a relatively short drive up the coast to Grand Haven, MI, for Christmas.
When we’re sitting in -5 below windchill at Soldier Field December 22nd, feel free to remind me that I consciously & deliberately chose that weekend over free tickets, dry heat, golf, et al.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Well at least nobody can accuse you of being a fair weather fan.
My Offensive Grades for Projected Starters and Key Subs by position:
QB: A-.
Goff. Outstanding at running the offense, but has limitations.
Key Backup: B
Hooker. Unknown, but very high upside.
RB: A+
Montgomery, Gibbs. Best Duo in NFL. Gibbs is the most explosive RB in the game.
Key Backups: B
Reynolds, Vaki. Reynolds is reliable. Vaki can add some interesting twists to the offense.
OL: A+
Decker, Glasgow, Ragnow, Zeitler, Sewell. Another best in NFL unit.
Key Backups: C+
Skipper, Sorsdal, Manu, Mahogany. Skipper is the only reliable backup. Lots of potential in the next three guys, but need to develop. Too many questions at this point.
WR: A-
ARSB, Jamo, DPJ. I like this group better than most people. Saint is among the best, Jamo has shown he is ready to take off, and DPJ will be better than Reynolds.
Key Backups: B
Raymond, Green. Raymond is proven reliable and Green has potential to be good.
TE: A+
LaPorta. Possibly the best in the league.
Key Backups: B
Wright, Mitchell. Wright is a great blocker who has decent hands with the ability to catch defenses off gaurd. Mitchell has potential but needs to grow.
Overall: A+.
Should be the best offense in the NFL. Injuries can always derail things, but there are capable backups.
QB: A-.
Goff. Outstanding at running the offense, but has limitations.
Key Backup: B
Hooker. Unknown, but very high upside.
RB: A+
Montgomery, Gibbs. Best Duo in NFL. Gibbs is the most explosive RB in the game.
Key Backups: B
Reynolds, Vaki. Reynolds is reliable. Vaki can add some interesting twists to the offense.
OL: A+
Decker, Glasgow, Ragnow, Zeitler, Sewell. Another best in NFL unit.
Key Backups: C+
Skipper, Sorsdal, Manu, Mahogany. Skipper is the only reliable backup. Lots of potential in the next three guys, but need to develop. Too many questions at this point.
WR: A-
ARSB, Jamo, DPJ. I like this group better than most people. Saint is among the best, Jamo has shown he is ready to take off, and DPJ will be better than Reynolds.
Key Backups: B
Raymond, Green. Raymond is proven reliable and Green has potential to be good.
TE: A+
LaPorta. Possibly the best in the league.
Key Backups: B
Wright, Mitchell. Wright is a great blocker who has decent hands with the ability to catch defenses off gaurd. Mitchell has potential but needs to grow.
Overall: A+.
Should be the best offense in the NFL. Injuries can always derail things, but there are capable backups.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
First day of OTAs, the big guy was back in the building today.
Does not appear BB (left foot has been in a boot) is off the scooter yet - was not seen at OTAs.
Dan has a presser tomorrow, we'll see if he provides any update.
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Preseason schedule came out today. Looks like I won't be attending the NYG game as it falls on my wife's birthday, but if (as expected) they hold joint practices, I'm going out to East Rutherford for at least one day.
Eric Schlitt of Pride of Detroit offered his opinion on how the Lions Secondary will shake out.
Does not appear BB (left foot has been in a boot) is off the scooter yet - was not seen at OTAs.
Dan has a presser tomorrow, we'll see if he provides any update.
Top NFL Ticket increases for 2024 per @TickPick:
- Houston #Texans (99% increase): $155 to $309
- Detroit #Lions (68% increase): $192 to $323
- Baltimore #Ravens (33% increase): $175 to $233
Preseason schedule came out today. Looks like I won't be attending the NYG game as it falls on my wife's birthday, but if (as expected) they hold joint practices, I'm going out to East Rutherford for at least one day.
Eric Schlitt of Pride of Detroit offered his opinion on how the Lions Secondary will shake out.
First, let’s project the starting players in the secondary. On the outside at corner, the Lions have several options to challenge for roles, but my guess is the Week 1 starters will be Carlton Davis and rookie Terrion Arnold. Brian Branch will start at nickel, which puts him close to the line of scrimmage where he can shine. That leaves Kerby Joseph and Ifeatu Melifonwu to start at safety. In two-deep safety looks, they both have the range to drop, but when they shift to single-high, look for Joseph to play center field and Melifonwu to shift into the slot opposite Branch.
On the outside, the Lions have solid depth/competition in Amik Robertson, Emmanuel Moseley (once healthy), Kindle Vildor, and rookie Ennis Rakestraw. But on the inside, the Lions have some positional flexibility—most notably in Branch and Melifonwu—to adjust to scheme and opponent.
Both Branch and Melifonwu can play in the slot, in the box, and deep at safety. Branch tends to work better in the box, while Melifonwu works better deep, which is why they are in the roles I projected above. In base sets, the Lions can play things straight, but they also have the ability to disguise. Because Branch and Melifonwu are both elite blitzers, you can blitz one from the slot while dropping the other in coverage. This gives defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn the flexibility to blitz from the strong and/or weak side of the formation without tipping his hand—see the Divisional Playoff game vs. Buccaneers for examples of this.
So because of this flexibility, I expect the Lions to lean on Branch, Melifonwu, and Joseph as their top three options at safety, with recently re-signed C.J. Moore as their fourth option. This does not necessarily preclude the Lions from adding another veteran safety to the mix, but they seem comfortable with their top four options for now.
Additionally, in situations where Branch is at safety in two safety sets, I believe the Lions will lean on Rakestraw at nickel. Rakestraw opened rookie minicamp in the slot and began his college career there as well.
TLR
Carlton Davis: CB1A
Terrion Arnold: CB1B
Brian Branch: NB1 and SAF3
Ennis Rakestraw: NB2 and outside CB depth
Kerby Joseph: Single-high SAF1
Ifeatu Melifonwu: SAF2 (with NB range)
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Nothing earth shattering here on a slow news day, but I did want to bump this off the 2nd page. PFF listed their top 3 players from every team:
Player Experience
Amon-Ra St. Brown 4th season
Aidan Hutchinson 3rd season
Penei Sewell 4th season
Detroit has a roster capable of winning a Super Bowl, and it is led by the same trio of stars we had on this list last year.
Amon-Ra St. Brown earned an elite receiving grade for the second straight season. Meanwhile, Penei Sewell took a massive leap from an 82.3 overall grade in 2022 to a 93.5 mark in 2023. Aidan Hutchinson also ascended to the elite level, generating a 91.4 pass-rush grade thanks to his 121 quarterback pressures.
Also Considered: QB Jared Goff, C Frank Ragnow, DI Alim McNeill
Player Experience
Amon-Ra St. Brown 4th season
Aidan Hutchinson 3rd season
Penei Sewell 4th season
Detroit has a roster capable of winning a Super Bowl, and it is led by the same trio of stars we had on this list last year.
Amon-Ra St. Brown earned an elite receiving grade for the second straight season. Meanwhile, Penei Sewell took a massive leap from an 82.3 overall grade in 2022 to a 93.5 mark in 2023. Aidan Hutchinson also ascended to the elite level, generating a 91.4 pass-rush grade thanks to his 121 quarterback pressures.
Also Considered: QB Jared Goff, C Frank Ragnow, DI Alim McNeill
So six players listed and Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs ,two players arguably the best in the league at their position, are not even mentioned. 3 years ago, no Lions player ever smiffed the top 100, except for maybe Frank.
