ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
I’m hoping Engstrund soaked up all the knowledge he could in the past couple years
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2025 Detroit Lions: 0-0 HOF Game on tape, as DC said..."We got work to do" (49 Viewers)
- Thread starter Da Guru
- Start date
Well Dan has had plenty of time to have a plan, may want to promote him soon.
Moonlight
Footballguy
I’m a lifelong Lions fan and not a Goff hater. I think he is a top 8 QB. The Lions can win a SB with him if everything goes right.
But it’s foolish to ignore that the top teams in the playoffs have mobile QBs. It is the present and future wave.
Goff needed to be great vs Washington due to our injury depleted defense and he wasn’t.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
2025 salary cap tracker:
www.pff.com
2025 NFL Salary Cap Tracker: All 32 NFL teams ranked by cap space
Here’s how all 32 NFL teams currently stand in terms of cap space as we approach the divisional round of the playoffs.
www.pff.com
kutta
Footballguy
Agree with all, but it wasn’t a one score game when the Jamo pass was called. Lions were down 10.
I’m still sad
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Detroit has re-signed S Morice Norris.
Lions have signed WR Ronnie Bell (49ers, U of M) to a Reserve/Future Contract.
Practice squad players signed to a Futures Contract today:
Lions have signed WR Ronnie Bell (49ers, U of M) to a Reserve/Future Contract.
Practice squad players signed to a Futures Contract today:
- LB Abraham Beauplan
- DL Kingsley Enagbare (GB)
- QB Jake Fromm
- LB DaRon Gilbert
- S Erick Hallett II
- T Jamarco Jones
- WR Tom Kennedy
- DI Christ Smith
- S Loren Strickland
- CB Stantley Thomas-Oliver III
- DI Issac Ukwu
D-line coach Terrell Williams being considered for Patriots defensive coordinator.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
A lot of possible departures but I'll wait till the actual announcements before I sign the goodbye cards. More than one person is being considered for most of these jobs.
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
Tom Kennedy is going to be eligible for a practice squad pension soon.
King of the Jungle
Footballguy
What about Saleh for DC?
He may land in Jacksonville now.
Kelvin Sheppard is the favorite to get the job. Aaron Glenn has been grooming him for the last 2 years. I would be very surprised if he doesn't get the job.
He's been planning for this for 2 years.
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
Many messy Ben Johnson rumors floating around.
Been reported Johnson had accepted the Bears job during the bye week but did not tell DC until Lions lost. Also that Johnson was contacting potential future staff members during the bye week and that is in violation of his contract with Detroit Lions and unethical procedure for the NFL.
The rivalry might have been kicked up a notch.
Been reported Johnson had accepted the Bears job during the bye week but did not tell DC until Lions lost. Also that Johnson was contacting potential future staff members during the bye week and that is in violation of his contract with Detroit Lions and unethical procedure for the NFL.
The rivalry might have been kicked up a notch.
CGRdrJoe
Footballguy
maybe baltimore should trade for Hooker since Lamar can't seem to get to the big game over there.....10 pages? I think that's a little bit of an exaggeration, lol, but I'm glad you agree on some things.TV
I’m a football fan. You can be interested in things outside your favorite team, lol.
More people are waking up to the Goff/Hooker situation. It’s no longer just me.Actually, there were always people besides me who were wondering about it, but I guess I was the most vocal. It’s a thing now.
The problem with Goff is he’s good enough to beat up on lesser teams and pad his stats with all the weapons he’s got, plus a great OL, but in the playoffs, when everything speeds up and you’re also going against the best players and coaches, Goff lacks the athleticism (as in none) to make a difference. Plus, it’s not like he’s got top-tier arm talent. It’s a bad combination to try to win a title with in today’s NFL. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible with Goff, but the odds are very discouraging. Look at the 4 QBs left…
It’s time for Detroit to give serious consideration to moving on from Goff in some fashion. Hooker may not ultimately make it, but he has some qualities that could take their offense to the next level and get them over the hump. Do you want to win a bunch of regular season games or do you want to win a title? Windows close quickly in the NFL. Time is ticking and that’s not something that’s negotiable.
I agree with some things, but you have more posts in the Jarod Goff thread than anyone..about 10 pages worth. Way more than any of the Lion fans.
It would be like me posting 10 pages about who should play Russell Wilson or Fields, or any combo of QBs. Why would I care?
Goff starts the first year of his new contract next season, so he is here for a while. I doubt what a couple people "wondering" about it on a message board will impact who plays. As I said I hope Hooker shows massive improvement and is able to take the next step and battle for the job. Listening to local sport show and writers who follow the team that does not seem to be the case. That is why they brought in Teddy Bridgewater late in the season to replace Hooker as the backup. That is not a good sign as Hooker has 2 years already watching.
Bottom line is DC will decide who plays, not us.
On another Jared Goff topic, I was critical of Holmes extending him early. A good rule of thumb for GMs is to only give early extensions to the best of the best and that's not Goff. Sure, you could theoretically save a little bit of money giving early extensions to guys like Goff if they ball out, but the downside is way bigger than the upside. In Goff's case, the Lions definitely could've had him for less if they had waited with his poor performance against Washington and early playoff exit. Not only that, they probly would've felt different about the length of the contract. Now, they're stuck, albeit, with a decent, but unspectacular/unathletic QB.
Here's the real problem...the Lions can give lip service to Hooker all they want, but what are the chances they have the balls to make him their starter given Goff's contract if Hooker does "beat him out". The elephant in the room is they could, but won't (due to the contract) make the switch to Hooker unless Goff really struggles. If that happens, another season is likely toast. Detroit has painted itself into a corner with that contract, IMO. Is this window big enough to where they can keep Goff as their starter every year of his contract even if he doesn't help bring a title, then switch to Hooker or someone else?
All that said, Detroit has plenty going for it, although, losing both coordinators could be a huge blow. My team (Dallas) certainly has more problems to overcome. BTW, I'm ok with you calling me obsessed, lol. After all, FF (and the NFL) is my only hobby.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Of note, Brad Biggs (the Tom Kowalski of the Bears beat, if you will) is reporting Johnson isn't taking Hank Fraley and doesn't plan to raid the Lions staff.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
AG to the Jets is apparently unofficially official
Hot Sauce Guy
Footballguy
Man, I’d forgotten about that play.
Inarguably the most insane play call I’ve ever seen in the playoffs in my ~45 years of watching/understanding football.
Just a completely bonkers thing to do. And I’m saying that while separating the play call from the execution, which was also obviously horrific.
But one begat the other. The result was a semi-predictable conclusion of a terrible idea with terrible timing. Trusting a WR to read the defense enough to not throw it into double coverage over calling a play for a QB who’s going to be worlds better at making that read points right back to the play call.
Maybe Lions fans should be glad Johnson is moving on to greener pastures, because that **** was crazy. I won’t say it cost them the game, but it was absolutely a contributing factor.
I could see breaking out that kind of play up 17 in the late 3rd, or in a regular season game. Kinda zany, kinda fun - a morale boost play to keep the guys playing loose.
But down 10, with advancing in the playoffs on the line, it just seems absurd to try that. That was still a very winnable game.
I’m a little surprised I had so many words for that because tbh I’m kinda dumbfounded by it. I’m still shocked it happened. I guess I kinda blocked it from my memory.
King of the Jungle
Footballguy
The worst part is they were walking the ball down the field in the running game, it was absolutely a dagger of a turnover at a time where they needed a score. The whole thought of that game in its entirety makes me ill.
Gjallarhorn
Footballguy
Two 3rd round picks are a nice parting gift.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
As far as Ben goes, extremely innovative plays but the timing of those plays is very questionable. Sometimes you just hand the ball to Gibbs.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Ranking Lions’ UFA, Projected Contacts, & Odds they will re-sign
The Lions have 31 players set to hit free agency, including 22 who will be unrestricted and free to sign with another team on March 12, the start of the next league year.
Before that time arrives, let's rank those 22 UFAs, project their next contracts — factoring in age, skill set, production and potential — and assess the odds of Detroit re-signing them.
1. Cornerback Carlton Davis
When general manager Brad Holmes set out to revamp the team’s cornerback room last offseason, he couldn’t have scored a much better fit for the cost than Davis. A physical, press-man defender who is comfortable matching up against the best receiving option the opponent has to offer and never afraid of charging into the fire in run support, Davis elevated a position group that had struggled immensely the past few seasons.
His physicality has long hindered his durability, which showed up again this season. He ended the year on the shelf after suffering a jaw injury while making a run stop. But he was what the doctor had ordered in the games he played.
The question becomes whether the Lions can afford him. Cornerbacks are among the highest-paid positions in football, and in a thin free-agency class, he’ll get among the best players available.
Projected contract: Four years, $78 million
Odds Lions re-sign? 30%. The team has limited room for big contracts, particularly if they seek long-term deals with the players they’ve drafted and developed, such as Aidan Hutchinson, Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs.
2. Linebacker Derrick Barnes
It took two full seasons, but things really started to click for Barnes heading into the 2023 season, allowing him to out-snap first-round draft pick Jack Campbell that season. And when it looked like Campbell was ready to claim a more prominent role heading into his second year, the Lions showed their continued belief in Barnes by having him on the field for 86.5% of the team's defensive reps through the first two weeks of the season.
Barnes' value on the open market is anchored by his limited playmaking numbers. He doesn't generate a lot of sacks, has forced one fumble, and has no interceptions in the regular season (although he had a huge one to seal a playoff win over the Buccaneers a year ago). Still, it was clear how much the Lions missed his schematic understanding and reliable positioning that created opportunities for others.
After missing most of last season with a knee injury, it's conceivable Barnes opts for a one-year, prove-it deal to re-establish his value.
Projected contract: Three years, $16.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 60%. The Lions are a draft, develop and re-invest team under Holmes. Barnes worked hard to meet his potential and fill a role different from the one he played in college. It's easy to see the Lions rewarding that.
3. Guard Kevin Zeitler
The Lions had hoped to re-sign Jonah Jackson last offseason. But when the Rams outbid them, the team turned to Zeitler, an older veteran coming off his first Pro Bowl season. Shortly after the signing, coach Dan Campbell suggested the team’s offensive line might be better in 2024 with the addition. In many ways, that proved true.
Despite nearing his 35th birthday, Zeitler was outstanding, drawing strong consideration for All-Pro honors. He’s said he has no plans to retire, enjoyed his new surroundings, and is hopeful the Lions want to continue the partnership.
The wrench in the conversation is the emergence of rookie Christian Mahogany. He looks ready to move into the starting lineup after strong performances in two spot starts. Retaining Zeitler could come down to choosing him over Graham Glasgow.
Projected contract: One year, $6 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 35%. On paper, there’s a strong case to be made for keeping Zeitler over Glasgow, but parting ways with the latter one year into the three-year, $20 million deal he signed last offseason would carry a $5.3 million cap hit. That nearly doubles the cost of making the swap.
4. Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike
Seeing Onwuzurike play an entire season was a joy after he spent two years plagued by a back injury and a third understandably being handled with kid gloves coming off a fusion surgery.
The 635 defensive snaps he logged were more than he saw in those first three seasons combined. And while the 28 tackles and 1.5 sacks he tallied in 2024 won’t grab you, he certainly had a more significant impact as a pass-rusher, generating a hearty 47 QB pressures, pointing to a higher production ceiling.
After weeks of camp battles, Zeitler boldly projected Onwuzurike could earn a contract paying him $20 million per season. That might be a stretch, given the long-term concerns with his back. Still, the going rate for talent at the position surged last offseason, suggesting Onwuzurike is primed to cash in.
Projected contract: Three years, $45 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 30%. That’s a painfully low percentage given the grit and determination Onwuzurike exhibited the past four years, plus Holmes’ well-established love for the player, but that kind of money is a tough sell after the team already paid linemate Alim McNeill.
5. Cornerback Khalil Dorsey
The best gunner in the league? That’s difficult to say with conviction, but the Lions coaching staff and record-breaking punter Jack Fox feel that way about the speedy cornerback. On top of that role, Dorsey also offers kickoff return ability.
And he is more than a special teams standout. He’s a capable backup on defense.
Unfortunately, he’s recovering from a broken leg that required surgical repair, which has the potential to affect his value. He’s not expecting to be at full strength until mid-June.
Projected contract: One year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 65%. The Lions value special teams and Dorsey, specifically. Maybe they don’t race to get a deal done in March, allowing another team to swoop in, but if the rehab stays on track, it’s easy to see him back in Detroit in 2025.
6. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu
When healthy, Melifonwu is a versatile and dynamic playmaker. The problem, far too often, is he hasn’t been healthy. He missed significant chunks in three of his four seasons with the Lions. Even in the season where he appeared in all 17 games (2023), he missed time in training camp and had to briefly wear a club after breaking his hand in practice.
I don’t believe Melifonwu’s durability issues stem from a lack of care for his body. He takes his diet and training seriously. Sometimes, these things are simply outside an individual’s control.
At his best, he can line up anywhere in the secondary, where he’s reliable in coverage, run support and as a blitzer. He flourished in the latter role despite almost no experience rushing the passer before the 2023 season.
Projected contract: One year, $3 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 25%. The continually depressed safety market could result in Detroit’s willingness to run it back. But the team’s frustration with Melifonwu’s durability was palpable at times. The best ability is availability, as they say.
7. Wide receiver Tim Patrick
The Lions had multiple contenders for the team’s vacant No. 3 receiver job on last offseason’s roster, but none proved capable of grabbing the brass ring. They finally found their answer in Patrick, picking him up after he was let go by the Denver Broncos.
Patrick’s story is about remarkable perseverance, coming back from a torn ACL and torn Achilles to play his first games since 2021. He wound up appearing in 16 games for the Lions this season, logging more than 600 snaps. A strong blocker and big target with reliable hands, he hauled in 33 of 44 targets for 394 yards and a touchdown.
Yes, Patrick is older, at a position where there’s typically a steep drop-off after 30, but there’s some extra tread on the tires after missing two full seasons.
Projected contract: 1 year, $3.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 50%. Patrick fit in seamlessly, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see him back given the struggles the Lions had filling the role last offseason. Regardless, I would strongly expect the team to add competition and a long-term solution in the draft.
8. Defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad
Nobody thought much about the Muhammad signing when the team added him to the practice squad in early October. The defensive lineman hadn’t played in a regular season game since 2022 and was three years removed from his best season when he tallied 6.0 sacks for the Colts.
But mounting injuries up front led to Muhammad’s promotion to the active roster. And even though he was far from a star, he played reasonably well within the scheme, tallying 26 QB pressures and 3.0 sacks in nine games as a rotational end.
Projected contract: One year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 60%. Every team can use some reasonably priced depth capable of producing in a limited playing time or stepping into a larger role in a pinch.
The Lions have 31 players set to hit free agency, including 22 who will be unrestricted and free to sign with another team on March 12, the start of the next league year.
Before that time arrives, let's rank those 22 UFAs, project their next contracts — factoring in age, skill set, production and potential — and assess the odds of Detroit re-signing them.
1. Cornerback Carlton Davis
When general manager Brad Holmes set out to revamp the team’s cornerback room last offseason, he couldn’t have scored a much better fit for the cost than Davis. A physical, press-man defender who is comfortable matching up against the best receiving option the opponent has to offer and never afraid of charging into the fire in run support, Davis elevated a position group that had struggled immensely the past few seasons.
His physicality has long hindered his durability, which showed up again this season. He ended the year on the shelf after suffering a jaw injury while making a run stop. But he was what the doctor had ordered in the games he played.
The question becomes whether the Lions can afford him. Cornerbacks are among the highest-paid positions in football, and in a thin free-agency class, he’ll get among the best players available.
Projected contract: Four years, $78 million
Odds Lions re-sign? 30%. The team has limited room for big contracts, particularly if they seek long-term deals with the players they’ve drafted and developed, such as Aidan Hutchinson, Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta and Jahmyr Gibbs.
2. Linebacker Derrick Barnes
It took two full seasons, but things really started to click for Barnes heading into the 2023 season, allowing him to out-snap first-round draft pick Jack Campbell that season. And when it looked like Campbell was ready to claim a more prominent role heading into his second year, the Lions showed their continued belief in Barnes by having him on the field for 86.5% of the team's defensive reps through the first two weeks of the season.
Barnes' value on the open market is anchored by his limited playmaking numbers. He doesn't generate a lot of sacks, has forced one fumble, and has no interceptions in the regular season (although he had a huge one to seal a playoff win over the Buccaneers a year ago). Still, it was clear how much the Lions missed his schematic understanding and reliable positioning that created opportunities for others.
After missing most of last season with a knee injury, it's conceivable Barnes opts for a one-year, prove-it deal to re-establish his value.
Projected contract: Three years, $16.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 60%. The Lions are a draft, develop and re-invest team under Holmes. Barnes worked hard to meet his potential and fill a role different from the one he played in college. It's easy to see the Lions rewarding that.
3. Guard Kevin Zeitler
The Lions had hoped to re-sign Jonah Jackson last offseason. But when the Rams outbid them, the team turned to Zeitler, an older veteran coming off his first Pro Bowl season. Shortly after the signing, coach Dan Campbell suggested the team’s offensive line might be better in 2024 with the addition. In many ways, that proved true.
Despite nearing his 35th birthday, Zeitler was outstanding, drawing strong consideration for All-Pro honors. He’s said he has no plans to retire, enjoyed his new surroundings, and is hopeful the Lions want to continue the partnership.
The wrench in the conversation is the emergence of rookie Christian Mahogany. He looks ready to move into the starting lineup after strong performances in two spot starts. Retaining Zeitler could come down to choosing him over Graham Glasgow.
Projected contract: One year, $6 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 35%. On paper, there’s a strong case to be made for keeping Zeitler over Glasgow, but parting ways with the latter one year into the three-year, $20 million deal he signed last offseason would carry a $5.3 million cap hit. That nearly doubles the cost of making the swap.
4. Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike
Seeing Onwuzurike play an entire season was a joy after he spent two years plagued by a back injury and a third understandably being handled with kid gloves coming off a fusion surgery.
The 635 defensive snaps he logged were more than he saw in those first three seasons combined. And while the 28 tackles and 1.5 sacks he tallied in 2024 won’t grab you, he certainly had a more significant impact as a pass-rusher, generating a hearty 47 QB pressures, pointing to a higher production ceiling.
After weeks of camp battles, Zeitler boldly projected Onwuzurike could earn a contract paying him $20 million per season. That might be a stretch, given the long-term concerns with his back. Still, the going rate for talent at the position surged last offseason, suggesting Onwuzurike is primed to cash in.
Projected contract: Three years, $45 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 30%. That’s a painfully low percentage given the grit and determination Onwuzurike exhibited the past four years, plus Holmes’ well-established love for the player, but that kind of money is a tough sell after the team already paid linemate Alim McNeill.
5. Cornerback Khalil Dorsey
The best gunner in the league? That’s difficult to say with conviction, but the Lions coaching staff and record-breaking punter Jack Fox feel that way about the speedy cornerback. On top of that role, Dorsey also offers kickoff return ability.
And he is more than a special teams standout. He’s a capable backup on defense.
Unfortunately, he’s recovering from a broken leg that required surgical repair, which has the potential to affect his value. He’s not expecting to be at full strength until mid-June.
Projected contract: One year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 65%. The Lions value special teams and Dorsey, specifically. Maybe they don’t race to get a deal done in March, allowing another team to swoop in, but if the rehab stays on track, it’s easy to see him back in Detroit in 2025.
6. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu
When healthy, Melifonwu is a versatile and dynamic playmaker. The problem, far too often, is he hasn’t been healthy. He missed significant chunks in three of his four seasons with the Lions. Even in the season where he appeared in all 17 games (2023), he missed time in training camp and had to briefly wear a club after breaking his hand in practice.
I don’t believe Melifonwu’s durability issues stem from a lack of care for his body. He takes his diet and training seriously. Sometimes, these things are simply outside an individual’s control.
At his best, he can line up anywhere in the secondary, where he’s reliable in coverage, run support and as a blitzer. He flourished in the latter role despite almost no experience rushing the passer before the 2023 season.
Projected contract: One year, $3 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 25%. The continually depressed safety market could result in Detroit’s willingness to run it back. But the team’s frustration with Melifonwu’s durability was palpable at times. The best ability is availability, as they say.
7. Wide receiver Tim Patrick
The Lions had multiple contenders for the team’s vacant No. 3 receiver job on last offseason’s roster, but none proved capable of grabbing the brass ring. They finally found their answer in Patrick, picking him up after he was let go by the Denver Broncos.
Patrick’s story is about remarkable perseverance, coming back from a torn ACL and torn Achilles to play his first games since 2021. He wound up appearing in 16 games for the Lions this season, logging more than 600 snaps. A strong blocker and big target with reliable hands, he hauled in 33 of 44 targets for 394 yards and a touchdown.
Yes, Patrick is older, at a position where there’s typically a steep drop-off after 30, but there’s some extra tread on the tires after missing two full seasons.
Projected contract: 1 year, $3.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 50%. Patrick fit in seamlessly, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see him back given the struggles the Lions had filling the role last offseason. Regardless, I would strongly expect the team to add competition and a long-term solution in the draft.
8. Defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad
Nobody thought much about the Muhammad signing when the team added him to the practice squad in early October. The defensive lineman hadn’t played in a regular season game since 2022 and was three years removed from his best season when he tallied 6.0 sacks for the Colts.
But mounting injuries up front led to Muhammad’s promotion to the active roster. And even though he was far from a star, he played reasonably well within the scheme, tallying 26 QB pressures and 3.0 sacks in nine games as a rotational end.
Projected contract: One year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 60%. Every team can use some reasonably priced depth capable of producing in a limited playing time or stepping into a larger role in a pinch.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
9. Defensive lineman John Cominsky
Even before suffering a season-ending knee injury, Cominsky had been falling out of favor with the coaching staff. After being claimed off waivers in 2022, the high-effort defender was a revelation in his first season with the Lions, earning a two-year extension. But after he failed to deliver similar results on the field a year later — half the sacks and a 25% decline in QB pressures — the team asked him to take a pay cut or be let go.
Cominsky frequently repped with the third-team defense during camp, where he predictably did well against lower-level offensive line talent. His size, strength, athleticism and non-stop motor give him continued value.
Projected contract: One year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 40%. Even though he wasn’t a lock to make the roster had he stayed healthy, there were times this season when the Lions would have killed to have someone with his skill set.
10. Defensive lineman Pat O'Connor
Having a similar playing style but a different body type, O’Connor filled some of Cominsky’s snaps along the defensive front. The primary difference between the two linemen is Cominsky was an end big enough to slide inside on passing downs and O’Connor was a defensive tackle athletic enough to play on the edge in some packages.
As a former edge rusher, O’Connor has retained an impressively quick first step. And the fact he can contribute on special teams so reliably at his size is an added bonus.
Projected contract: One year, $1.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 65%. O’Connor might have a slightly larger market than in the past after playing a career-high 235 snaps, but he’s still best suited as a depth piece.
11. Cornerback Kindle Vildor
Vildor became the face of Detroit's collapse in the NFC Championship a year ago after a deep ball bounced off his helmet and was corraled by 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk. But the stain of that moment didn't linger. He reclaimed the top backup spot on the depth chart and allowed a lean 62.1 passer rating when targeted in coverage.
In addition to Vildor's work on defense, he also stepped up on special teams as the gunner opposite Dorsey, helping contribute to the team's record-breaking net-punting average.
Projected contract: 1 year, $1.75 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 60%. You can never have too much depth at cornerback.
12. Defensive end Marcus Davenport
Davenport falls under the same umbrella as Melifonwu — an outstanding talent with durability issues anchoring his value. The Lions rolled the dice when they added the former first-round pick as a relatively low-cost free agent. They netted fewer than three games on the bet before he suffered a torn triceps.
It’s a shame because Davenport turned heads with his impressive bull rush throughout training camp. He looked like an outstanding fit as a pocket-crushing edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
But after being limited to 21 games the past three seasons, producing a paltry 3.0 sacks in those contests, taking another spin is difficult to justify.
Projected contract: One year, $3.5 million (with playtime and performance incentives)
Will the Lions re-sign? 30%. The Lions have shown some willingness to give talent the benefit of the doubt in these situations. Still, they’d need better contingencies in place if Davenport’s body were to betray him again.
13. Offensive tackle Dan Skipper
The man, the myth, the legend — Skipper definitively earned the backup offensive tackle job this offseason, outperforming recent draft picks Colby Sorsdal and Giovanni Manu for the role.
Skipper continues to be wildly popular with the fan base, drawing raucous cheers every time he reports eligible as a third tight end. And he held his own as an injury replacement in 2024, the first starts of his career at offensive tackle.
The Lions are looking at Manu as the long-term play, but he might need another year of development before the Lions trust him.
Projected contract: 1 year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 75%. Skipper offers stability and insurance at offensive tackle. And if he gets beat out by one of the team’s younger options in training camp, so be it.
14. Linebacker Ben Niemann
A June addition, Niemann brought a wealth of experience to the roster, primarily on special teams, where he had logged close to 1,400 snaps in his career.
A strong preseason showing secured a roster spot. Niemann went on to play a career-high workload on special teams (295 snaps) and saw defensive snaps in 12 contests, including four starts. A sure-tackler with on-ball/off-ball versatility, he has a chance to stick as reliable depth.
Projected contract: One year, $1.4 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 50%. The Lions have a tone of depth under contract at linebacker, but if they can’t keep Barnes, Niemann’s ability to play the strongside spot is helpful depth.
15. Guard Netane Muti
Muti is another talented player with longstanding durability concerns. His performance this offseason had him pushing for a backup job, but his momentum was halted by a season-ending pectoral injury.
Muti remained in Detroit all season, working in the classroom and bonding with his teammates. He’s popular in the locker room and still possesses an intriguing skill set that he pairs with an on-field mean streak.
Projected contract: One year, veteran minimum
Will the Lions re-sign? 85%. The Lions have expressed interest in retaining him to compete for a job in 2025.
16. Linebacker Ezekiel Turner
A midseason addition, the longtime special teams standout for the Cardinals quickly carved out a role in Detroit’s injury-depleted corps. On teams, there’s a lot of role overlap with captain Jalen Reeves-Maybin. Defensively, Turner offers some coverage ability as a former college safety, even though his play recognition and schematic positioning were underdeveloped, given he joined the roster so late in the year.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum
Will the Lions re-sign? 30%. There’s too much redundancy with what the Lions already have under contract. Turner’s best chance to stick might be if the Lions sever ties with Reeves-Maybin, who is set to carry a $4.75 million cap hit but offers $2 million in cap relief with his release.
Even before suffering a season-ending knee injury, Cominsky had been falling out of favor with the coaching staff. After being claimed off waivers in 2022, the high-effort defender was a revelation in his first season with the Lions, earning a two-year extension. But after he failed to deliver similar results on the field a year later — half the sacks and a 25% decline in QB pressures — the team asked him to take a pay cut or be let go.
Cominsky frequently repped with the third-team defense during camp, where he predictably did well against lower-level offensive line talent. His size, strength, athleticism and non-stop motor give him continued value.
Projected contract: One year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 40%. Even though he wasn’t a lock to make the roster had he stayed healthy, there were times this season when the Lions would have killed to have someone with his skill set.
10. Defensive lineman Pat O'Connor
Having a similar playing style but a different body type, O’Connor filled some of Cominsky’s snaps along the defensive front. The primary difference between the two linemen is Cominsky was an end big enough to slide inside on passing downs and O’Connor was a defensive tackle athletic enough to play on the edge in some packages.
As a former edge rusher, O’Connor has retained an impressively quick first step. And the fact he can contribute on special teams so reliably at his size is an added bonus.
Projected contract: One year, $1.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 65%. O’Connor might have a slightly larger market than in the past after playing a career-high 235 snaps, but he’s still best suited as a depth piece.
11. Cornerback Kindle Vildor
Vildor became the face of Detroit's collapse in the NFC Championship a year ago after a deep ball bounced off his helmet and was corraled by 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk. But the stain of that moment didn't linger. He reclaimed the top backup spot on the depth chart and allowed a lean 62.1 passer rating when targeted in coverage.
In addition to Vildor's work on defense, he also stepped up on special teams as the gunner opposite Dorsey, helping contribute to the team's record-breaking net-punting average.
Projected contract: 1 year, $1.75 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 60%. You can never have too much depth at cornerback.
12. Defensive end Marcus Davenport
Davenport falls under the same umbrella as Melifonwu — an outstanding talent with durability issues anchoring his value. The Lions rolled the dice when they added the former first-round pick as a relatively low-cost free agent. They netted fewer than three games on the bet before he suffered a torn triceps.
It’s a shame because Davenport turned heads with his impressive bull rush throughout training camp. He looked like an outstanding fit as a pocket-crushing edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
But after being limited to 21 games the past three seasons, producing a paltry 3.0 sacks in those contests, taking another spin is difficult to justify.
Projected contract: One year, $3.5 million (with playtime and performance incentives)
Will the Lions re-sign? 30%. The Lions have shown some willingness to give talent the benefit of the doubt in these situations. Still, they’d need better contingencies in place if Davenport’s body were to betray him again.
13. Offensive tackle Dan Skipper
The man, the myth, the legend — Skipper definitively earned the backup offensive tackle job this offseason, outperforming recent draft picks Colby Sorsdal and Giovanni Manu for the role.
Skipper continues to be wildly popular with the fan base, drawing raucous cheers every time he reports eligible as a third tight end. And he held his own as an injury replacement in 2024, the first starts of his career at offensive tackle.
The Lions are looking at Manu as the long-term play, but he might need another year of development before the Lions trust him.
Projected contract: 1 year, $2 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 75%. Skipper offers stability and insurance at offensive tackle. And if he gets beat out by one of the team’s younger options in training camp, so be it.
14. Linebacker Ben Niemann
A June addition, Niemann brought a wealth of experience to the roster, primarily on special teams, where he had logged close to 1,400 snaps in his career.
A strong preseason showing secured a roster spot. Niemann went on to play a career-high workload on special teams (295 snaps) and saw defensive snaps in 12 contests, including four starts. A sure-tackler with on-ball/off-ball versatility, he has a chance to stick as reliable depth.
Projected contract: One year, $1.4 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 50%. The Lions have a tone of depth under contract at linebacker, but if they can’t keep Barnes, Niemann’s ability to play the strongside spot is helpful depth.
15. Guard Netane Muti
Muti is another talented player with longstanding durability concerns. His performance this offseason had him pushing for a backup job, but his momentum was halted by a season-ending pectoral injury.
Muti remained in Detroit all season, working in the classroom and bonding with his teammates. He’s popular in the locker room and still possesses an intriguing skill set that he pairs with an on-field mean streak.
Projected contract: One year, veteran minimum
Will the Lions re-sign? 85%. The Lions have expressed interest in retaining him to compete for a job in 2025.
16. Linebacker Ezekiel Turner
A midseason addition, the longtime special teams standout for the Cardinals quickly carved out a role in Detroit’s injury-depleted corps. On teams, there’s a lot of role overlap with captain Jalen Reeves-Maybin. Defensively, Turner offers some coverage ability as a former college safety, even though his play recognition and schematic positioning were underdeveloped, given he joined the roster so late in the year.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum
Will the Lions re-sign? 30%. There’s too much redundancy with what the Lions already have under contract. Turner’s best chance to stick might be if the Lions sever ties with Reeves-Maybin, who is set to carry a $4.75 million cap hit but offers $2 million in cap relief with his release.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
17. Defensive tackle Kyle Peko
A veteran with ties to Williams, the team’s outgoing defensive line coach, Peko had a strong camp filling in for rehabbing starter D.J. Reader, earning the opportunity to stick as a rotational player. Unfortunately, Peko’s season ended early due to a torn pec suffered against Dallas in Week 6.
He’s a little long in the tooth but still has gas in the tank. Someone will likely give him a chance to continue his career, even if it’s not Detroit. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him follow Williams to New England.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum
Will the Lions re-sign? 25%. The Lions have some uncertainty at nose tackle heading into this offseason. They have a cap decision to make with Reader, O’Connor is a free agent, and Brodric Martin has yet to show he’s ready for a significant role. That might be enough to consider retaining Peko for some stable depth.
18. Cornerback Emmanuel Moseley
Moseley’s last few years have been trying. He lost most of two seasons after tearing both of his ACLs, then barely played this year after tearing his pec in training camp and battling some minor injury issues after getting medically cleared to return from that injury.
The Lions loved Moseley’s playing style when they brought him in ahead of the 2023 season. They wanted to give it another shot this year, but it just didn’t work out. Is the third time the charm? That’s not something NFL teams are typically willing to ask.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum.
Will the Lions re-sign? 25%. The team loves Moseley, both the player and the locker room leader. But, to no fault of his own, he’s no longer a talent worth betting on.
19. Defensive lineman Jonah Williams
Williams was one of several mid-season veteran additions. He was scooped off the Rams practice squad to address some late-season injury issues.
A 16-game starter with the Rams a year earlier, Williams didn’t get an opportunity to show much in Detroit, appearing in two regular season games and the team’s playoff loss to Washington. He logged 45 combined defensive snaps in those appearances.
Possessing good size (6-foot-5, 290 pounds) and plus athleticism, there’s an upside with Williams, but it’s unclear whether the Lions are interested in exploring it.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum.
Will the Lions re-sign? 20%. There are enough moving pieces up front, including the need for a new position coach, that we could see the team wanting to have Williams around for a full offseason to better understand his potential.
20. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater
The longtime veteran retired last offseason, returning to Miami to coach his former high school to a state championship. He rejoined the Lions in December, a move that appeared to be the long-term plan. That move temporarily unseated Hendon Hooker as the team’s primary backup for the postseason.
Regardless, Hooker is the team’s long-term answer behind starter Jared Goff. If Bridgewater wants to continue his career, he’s still a capable player and the strongest of mentors. Still, you’d have to justify using a roster spot for a third quarterback and stunting Hooker’s development.
Projected contract: None
Will the Lions re-sign? 15%. It isn’t easy to see the scenario where Bridgewater is in camp with the Lions.
21. Wide receiver Allen Robinson
Robinson is at the end of his career. The Detroit native remains in outstanding shape but is well past his prime, when he was a threat to catch 100 balls in a season.
Taking residence deep on Detroit’s depth chart, he appeared in seven games this season and caught just three passes. He was a valuable veteran presence for some of Detroit’s younger players, namely Jameson Williams, but there’s little reason to bring Allen back.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum.
Will the Lions re-sign? 10%.
22. Kicker Michael Badgley
Despite some quality production, Badgley’s hold on Detroit’s kicking job was always tenuous. In parts of two seasons, he converted 85.7% of his field goal attempts, delivering a key 54-yarder in last year’s playoff win over the Rams. But that was clearly the outer limit of his range.
Badgley suffered a season-ending injury in training camp, paving the way for Jake Bates’ emergence. After some training camp inconsistencies, he found his groove in the regular season, showcasing reliable accuracy and leg strength Badgley can’t match.
Projected contract: One year, $1.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 10%. If there isn’t a better offer, Badgley could offer camp competition to Bates, which could eventually help the veteran land a job elsewhere.
Lions other free agents
Restricted: Defensive lineman Myles Adams, guard Kayode Awosika, linebacker Anthony Pittman, running back Craig Reynolds, tight end Shane Zylstra
With restricted free agents, the Lions can tender them with a tag at one of four levels: First-round, second-round, original-round or right of first refusal. Those tenders ranged from $3 million to nearly $7 million last year. Given their list, the Lions are unlikely to tag any of the five, allowing each to become unrestricted free agents.
Exclusive Rights: Linebacker Mitchell Agude, offensive tackle Connor Galvin, offensive lineman Michael Niese, linebacker Trevor Nowaske
An exclusive-rights tender is a non-guaranteed, veteran minimum contract. There’s no downside for the team and the Lions will likely tender most, if not all players from this group.
A veteran with ties to Williams, the team’s outgoing defensive line coach, Peko had a strong camp filling in for rehabbing starter D.J. Reader, earning the opportunity to stick as a rotational player. Unfortunately, Peko’s season ended early due to a torn pec suffered against Dallas in Week 6.
He’s a little long in the tooth but still has gas in the tank. Someone will likely give him a chance to continue his career, even if it’s not Detroit. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him follow Williams to New England.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum
Will the Lions re-sign? 25%. The Lions have some uncertainty at nose tackle heading into this offseason. They have a cap decision to make with Reader, O’Connor is a free agent, and Brodric Martin has yet to show he’s ready for a significant role. That might be enough to consider retaining Peko for some stable depth.
18. Cornerback Emmanuel Moseley
Moseley’s last few years have been trying. He lost most of two seasons after tearing both of his ACLs, then barely played this year after tearing his pec in training camp and battling some minor injury issues after getting medically cleared to return from that injury.
The Lions loved Moseley’s playing style when they brought him in ahead of the 2023 season. They wanted to give it another shot this year, but it just didn’t work out. Is the third time the charm? That’s not something NFL teams are typically willing to ask.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum.
Will the Lions re-sign? 25%. The team loves Moseley, both the player and the locker room leader. But, to no fault of his own, he’s no longer a talent worth betting on.
19. Defensive lineman Jonah Williams
Williams was one of several mid-season veteran additions. He was scooped off the Rams practice squad to address some late-season injury issues.
A 16-game starter with the Rams a year earlier, Williams didn’t get an opportunity to show much in Detroit, appearing in two regular season games and the team’s playoff loss to Washington. He logged 45 combined defensive snaps in those appearances.
Possessing good size (6-foot-5, 290 pounds) and plus athleticism, there’s an upside with Williams, but it’s unclear whether the Lions are interested in exploring it.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum.
Will the Lions re-sign? 20%. There are enough moving pieces up front, including the need for a new position coach, that we could see the team wanting to have Williams around for a full offseason to better understand his potential.
20. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater
The longtime veteran retired last offseason, returning to Miami to coach his former high school to a state championship. He rejoined the Lions in December, a move that appeared to be the long-term plan. That move temporarily unseated Hendon Hooker as the team’s primary backup for the postseason.
Regardless, Hooker is the team’s long-term answer behind starter Jared Goff. If Bridgewater wants to continue his career, he’s still a capable player and the strongest of mentors. Still, you’d have to justify using a roster spot for a third quarterback and stunting Hooker’s development.
Projected contract: None
Will the Lions re-sign? 15%. It isn’t easy to see the scenario where Bridgewater is in camp with the Lions.
21. Wide receiver Allen Robinson
Robinson is at the end of his career. The Detroit native remains in outstanding shape but is well past his prime, when he was a threat to catch 100 balls in a season.
Taking residence deep on Detroit’s depth chart, he appeared in seven games this season and caught just three passes. He was a valuable veteran presence for some of Detroit’s younger players, namely Jameson Williams, but there’s little reason to bring Allen back.
Projected contract: One year, vet minimum.
Will the Lions re-sign? 10%.
22. Kicker Michael Badgley
Despite some quality production, Badgley’s hold on Detroit’s kicking job was always tenuous. In parts of two seasons, he converted 85.7% of his field goal attempts, delivering a key 54-yarder in last year’s playoff win over the Rams. But that was clearly the outer limit of his range.
Badgley suffered a season-ending injury in training camp, paving the way for Jake Bates’ emergence. After some training camp inconsistencies, he found his groove in the regular season, showcasing reliable accuracy and leg strength Badgley can’t match.
Projected contract: One year, $1.5 million
Will the Lions re-sign? 10%. If there isn’t a better offer, Badgley could offer camp competition to Bates, which could eventually help the veteran land a job elsewhere.
Lions other free agents
Restricted: Defensive lineman Myles Adams, guard Kayode Awosika, linebacker Anthony Pittman, running back Craig Reynolds, tight end Shane Zylstra
With restricted free agents, the Lions can tender them with a tag at one of four levels: First-round, second-round, original-round or right of first refusal. Those tenders ranged from $3 million to nearly $7 million last year. Given their list, the Lions are unlikely to tag any of the five, allowing each to become unrestricted free agents.
Exclusive Rights: Linebacker Mitchell Agude, offensive tackle Connor Galvin, offensive lineman Michael Niese, linebacker Trevor Nowaske
An exclusive-rights tender is a non-guaranteed, veteran minimum contract. There’s no downside for the team and the Lions will likely tender most, if not all players from this group.
Hot Sauce Guy
Footballguy
100% - moving the ball well, I remember thinking "well this game is far from over" then that happened. I mean, sure you could say if it had worked it woulda been brilliant. But that play was doomed from the snap. Again, I don't mind calling a passing play there - and even with the D waiting for a pass, I would have trusted Goff to make a good check-down read, or throw it away.
But that? That was madness.
Sorry Lions fans - not trying to rub any salt on the wound. I'd legit not thought about that play since the game. I guess I've had time to process it and I'm still completely baffled by it.
ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
Even running that play with St. Brown would have been defensible. But putting the team's fate in the hands of a guy who is talented but also the biggest knucklehead on the roster was unforgivable. Yes, Jamo should have thrown it away. But Jamo not throwing it away was entirely predictable
ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
MAC_32
Footballguy
Taaaaap the brakes
MAC_32
Footballguy
I'm surprised you think the re-sign % is similar for Levi as Davis / Zeitler, and that you view Barnes as someone they're much more likely to re-up. They have Anzalone, Campbell, Rodriguez, and Reeves-Maybin under contract at LB. Robertson proved capable at CB and they drafted Rakestraw to be the future. As you shared, the emergence of Mahogany makes Zeitler expendable. Compare that to the DL- yeah, 4 starters return, but 2 are recovering from serious leg injuries, and this team rotates a lot of dudes.
If they're going to spend money on any of these guys, I think he'd be first, but to your point, will the big contracts that loom ahead leave them on the outside looking in at wave 1 free agency.
ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
Today's Athletic Football Show podcast had the Lions beat writer on in the second half of the show. I thought it was an interesting discussion. One key point they made: We've mostly heard about the continuity they've had at OC/DC since Campbell got there (Glenn for all four years, Ben for 3 1/2) but at the assistant level Campbell has churned the staff more, and managed to bring in some talented people (Terrell Williams being just one good example). Which augurs well for his ability to find replacements; it wasn't like he got lucky once or twice. They also talked about how Fraley would be a big loss if he took the Seahawks job.
With the caveat that I've been consistently wrong over the past decade about who the Lions should hire, and they should probably just go full Costanza and do the opposite of whatever I say, it kinda feels like it makes more sense to stay in-house for OC (Engstrand or maybe Scottie Montgomery) but go outside the building for DC (I've heard Dennis Allen if he doesn't go with Ben to Chicago, and also Saleh). It just feels like they can afford to give the DC a little more opportunity to set up his own fiefdom on that side of the ball. But ultimately, I trust Campbell to make the right call. I don't see a 2023 Eagles situation developing next year
With the caveat that I've been consistently wrong over the past decade about who the Lions should hire, and they should probably just go full Costanza and do the opposite of whatever I say, it kinda feels like it makes more sense to stay in-house for OC (Engstrand or maybe Scottie Montgomery) but go outside the building for DC (I've heard Dennis Allen if he doesn't go with Ben to Chicago, and also Saleh). It just feels like they can afford to give the DC a little more opportunity to set up his own fiefdom on that side of the ball. But ultimately, I trust Campbell to make the right call. I don't see a 2023 Eagles situation developing next year
Barnes fills a lb role on the team that nobody else does. If the new defensive coordinator runs the same scheme next year, I’d bet on Barnes getting resigned because he’s important to the defense, and he likely wont be too expensive.
Hot Sauce Guy
Footballguy
I’m just sayin.
For literally months everyone questioned whether the HC’s penchant for 4th down conversions would eventually cost them a big game.
if it wasn’t Johnson who called that disaster, my apologies for besmirching his good name. But that was bonkers. No way to sugar coat how terrible that was.
Hot Sauce Guy
Footballguy
Sure, but down 10, that play certainly wasn’t helpful in their effort to avoid a loss.
I agree that the Lions biggest problem that game was defense. I don’t think anyone would argue that.
But when attempting a comeback, there are certainly less risky ways to go about it than calling a WR pass downfield.
ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
But that had nothing to do with going for it on 4th down.
That play wasn't "risky", in the way people usually use it to refer to 4th down attempts (higher variance plays). It was just dumb. It didn't fool the Commanders and it gave Jamo too much discretion. Their earlier trick plays (the end around and the shovel pass) were well-designed plays that were executed brilliantly. I can't remember any Lions fourth down attempts, but there was certainly nothing too controversial
Hot Sauce Guy
Footballguy
Completely agree. I said as much.
I don’t get into the “HC gonna cost his team with one of those 4th down plays” discussions because I find myself agreeing that more teams should do that. The only times I might debate it when deep on one’s own side of the field.
But in general it’s a high % play to get 1-2 yards and the reward is worth the risk.
with the Jamo play there was no reward worth that risk. I believe we’re in agreement here.
MAC_32
Footballguy
I'm glad you tied those things together. The Lions of the last 2+ years aren't what they have been without their leadership- their bold, fearless, creative leadership. Dating back to last year, 'everyone' was waiting for a 4th down play to go bad. Never mind all the successes, it was all about the one that would fail. Ben Johnson has been (correctly) praised for his creativity and boldness throughout this magical run. Am I 100% perfect? Are you? Is anyone? No, of course not. Ben Johnson included. Even the best at their craft mess up on occasion, like he did Saturday night. That one flub does not undo all of the great things him and his team has accomplished over the last 2+ years. Shame on anyone for suggesting otherwise.
Snotbubbles
Footballguy
They should have scored nearly 50 against Washington. The only turnover I give them a pass (pun not intended) for is the pick 6. They were 2nd & 14 there. The rest they should have pounded the Commanders on the ground. At the very least they would have had 40, but I think if they kept running, they would have scored 2 more TDs and a FG.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
With MVP voting expanded to the top-5 this year, Goff understandably pulled in some votes and is a finalist for the award.
Also a finalist for year end awards: Campbell for coach of the year and Ben Johnson/Aaron Glenn for assistant coach of the year.
Kerby Joseph not among the five finalists for DPOY: Garrett, Watt, Hendrickson, Surtain II and Baun.
Also a finalist for year end awards: Campbell for coach of the year and Ben Johnson/Aaron Glenn for assistant coach of the year.
Kerby Joseph not among the five finalists for DPOY: Garrett, Watt, Hendrickson, Surtain II and Baun.
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
In the NFL even the best of plans don`t work out as planned. Lions bolstered their secondary and made it a strong point..almost.
#1 CB Carlton Davis broken jaw, Arnold missed time with injuries, Rakestraw was hurt all season. Mobley hurt all season, Robertson broke his arm second play of playoff game Add up games missed by the secondary. Then toss in Hutch and McNeil in the mix. Daniels would have had at least a little more trouble rolling right if Hutch was at DE
When you have CBs who played one snap all season in a playoff game that is trouble.
Done crying in my beer.
#1 CB Carlton Davis broken jaw, Arnold missed time with injuries, Rakestraw was hurt all season. Mobley hurt all season, Robertson broke his arm second play of playoff game Add up games missed by the secondary. Then toss in Hutch and McNeil in the mix. Daniels would have had at least a little more trouble rolling right if Hutch was at DE
When you have CBs who played one snap all season in a playoff game that is trouble.
Done crying in my beer.
ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
Yeah, that wasn't targeted at you as much as the general sense I get, both from the media and football conversations with people in my own life (one friend in particular) that Campbell deserves his cosmic comeuppance for going for it so often on 4th down, as if that represents some deep offense to the football gods. Any time the Lions lose, these folks twist the narrative into whatever shape they can to prove that it all goes back to Campbell's aggressiveness.
The Jamo play was a bad call. It's impossible to say whether the general idea of a trick play in that moment was bad; if Johnson saw something he thought he could exploit and the play worked, then it wouldn't be such a bad call. And his overall track record in that area has been pretty good.
Taking the ball out of Gibbs' hands at key moments in the game was also a mistake. I don't know why he did that, either, but again, I'm not going to give any credence to folks with motivated reasoning claiming he was getting too cute, or was distracted by the fact that he knew he was taking the Bears job, or any other speculative BS. No one bats 1.000, and unfortunately Johnson made a couple big mistakes in key moments
ignatiusjreilly
Footballguy
I realized today I'm still in the dumps over the loss, especially because I feel like they would have matched up well against the Eagles. Sure, Saquon would have gotten his, but I don't think Hurts and the passing game would be well-positioned to take advantage of Detroit's depleted defense.
But then I thought about a potential Super Bowl, and I realized that Mahomes and (as we saw) Allen are exactly the kind of smart, multitalented QBs who can zero in on your weaknesses and exploit them ruthlessly. (Daniels ability to do the same was a big reason they lost to him). So I guess it made me feel a tiny bit better to know that, once all the injuries happened, this was probably never going to be the Lions' year
But then I thought about a potential Super Bowl, and I realized that Mahomes and (as we saw) Allen are exactly the kind of smart, multitalented QBs who can zero in on your weaknesses and exploit them ruthlessly. (Daniels ability to do the same was a big reason they lost to him). So I guess it made me feel a tiny bit better to know that, once all the injuries happened, this was probably never going to be the Lions' year
Moonlight
Footballguy
I was resigned to the Lions not winning the Super Bowl after watching how Buffalo took our defense apart. Our offense was only going to take us so far. I was reminded of the Air Coryell teams of the San Diego Chargers who scored a ton of points but couldn’t advance in the playoffs due to their defense.
As prepared as I was the Washington loss was still a shock as I didn’t expect the wave of turnovers. Also losing both coordinators and assistants being poached right after is difficult. As long as we keep the core of Holmes Campbell Sheila and Spielman we can continue to contend.
swabs
Footballguy
I'd love to have CDIII back, but that's a lot of money when a massive Hutch extension is coming up and Kerby is coming to the end of his rookie deal too. My top re-signs would be Zeitler, Patrick, and Muhammad. All should be fairly cheap short term deals. I like both Levi and Melifonwu, but you can't give either of them a long-term deal with their injury history. Keep adding to the defense in the draft at Edge and CB. This team is so loaded with young returning players they just need to fill in the pieces.
