Detroit Lions Midseason Grades: Linebacker Report Card
By Dean Holden
Travis Lewis
Aug 22, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions linebacker Travis Lewis (50) celebrates 4th down stop against the New England Patriots during 2nd half at Ford Field. Lions won 40-9. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Production
Lewis is even worse off than Whitehead, as he’s only even played four games on special teams. In those four games, he has three tackles and two whiffs. At the risk of saying everything I already said about Whitehead, Lewis is another player who’s just biding his time until maybe he gets another shot in 2014.
Grade: D
Impact
Basically none. He hasn’t taken any snaps with the defense, and has only even been active as a special teamer in half the Lions’ regular season grades. I’d give him more of a pass if he hadn’t had an open shot at a bigger role in training camp.
Grade: D-
Vs. Expectations
Like Whitehead, there were hopes Lewis could step into the defense to replace Justin Durant, but he hasn’t secured either that role or a consistent one on special teams. There’s time for him yet, but the Lions won’t be too upset cutting a seventh-round draft pick if he doesn’t pan out.
Grade: D
Overall
There really isn’t much more to say about Lewis at this point. He’s a non-factor right now, and his time is running out. I’d give him until next training camp to show he has what it takes, and then the Lions will move on with other options.
Grade: D