Tahir Whitehead: 2016 Breakout Candidate

The Lions re-signed middle linebacker Tahir Whitehead a few weeks ago, in an attempt to solidify their linebacker core going forward. Whitehead and DeAndre Levy, both mid-round picks, represent two of former GM Martin Mayhew’s best draft picks.

Whitehead, who has been solid the past two seasons, gets little to no recognition outside of Detroit. As Levy proved, it takes multiple successful seasons before you get noticed around the league. Whitehead is officially going into the season as the stating middle linebacker, despite showing the ability to play all three of the positions.

Whitehead takes the gig from versatile, former middle linebacker Josh Bynes, who played last season as a result of roster shuffling to accommodate DeAndre Levy’s injuy. I wrote last week about 3rd-year outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy, who may be on the verge of either starting or getting cut, based on his training camp and pre-season performance. Although, the team has been pleased with the shape and overall play of Van Noy in the first week, which bodes well for the BYU product.

It is important to find the long-term solution at the third linebacker position, with the defensive line not being quite as strong last year. Whitehead was effective when forced into the starting middle linebacker role in 2014, when starter Stephen Tulloch ended his season on an injury he sustained injury while celebrating. Tulloch is still on the roster, but most believe he will be released before the season starts. Tulloch was stout against the run, but was becoming a slight liability when covering speedier tight ends and backs.

As Levy proved, it takes multiple successful seasons before you get noticed around the league.

Whitehead is very athletic for the position and will play with more confidence if a healthy Levy is there next to him. The two are both good in coverage and should help Detroit’s questionable secondary. Whitehead accumulated 3 interceptions, 2 sacks and 137 total tackles over the past two seasons. He didn’t look as comfortable last season starting on the outside and wasn’t utilized to his strengths. He played better in 2014, but mostly because middle linebacker stays on the field on 3rd-downs and passing situations. With more opportunities, he’s shown the ability to produce at a high level.

New GM Bob Quinn and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin have stated that they envision Whitehead as a middle linebacker first and foremost. Of course, versatility never hurts, but he has the skill set and experience to hold down the position.  Whitehead took a few seasons to progress into the player he is now, but with another successful season in 2016, it won’t be long before people outside of Detroit are familiar with his name.

For my full breakdown of the Detroit Lions’ linebacker situation entering OTA’s, read my Linebacker Examination. Watch Tahir’s big hit on Cole Beasley from the 2014 Wild Card Playoff Game in Dallas. Hopefully the Lions will get more of this with him back in the middle in 2016.