Detroit Lions Training Camp: Top Five Position Battles

Nov 17, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Detroit Lions cornerback Rashean Mathis (31) breaks up a pass intended for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. The Pittsburgh Steelers won 37-27. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

#2: The Cornerback Position

With the release of Chris Houston, there has never been more question marks at the cornerback position than there is now for the Lions. Darius Slay seems to be penciled in as the starting corner for now, and Mathis has received the most snaps across from him and they look to be the only locks on the 53-man roster as of now.

There’s a common saying that it normally takes a young cornerback up to three years to fully develop as an NFL player. It just so happens that Bill Bentley, Chris Greenwood and Jonte Green are all beginning their third year as a Lion, and it’s make or break for them. Unfortunately for Greenwood, it’s not looking likely that he will remain on the roster as he continues to deal with injuries.

Nevin Lawson was drafted this year as a scrappy 5’9 cornerback out of Utah State, and it looks like he’ll primarily be fighting for the starting nickel spot with Bill Bentley. Cassius Vaughn has also impressed during mini-camps and it’s looking like he has a great shot at making the roster as well.

Keep a close eye on this position battle, because a lot can change in a month when you have this much unproven talent at the position.

Early Prediction: Darius Slay, Rashean Mathis, Cassius Vaughn, Nevin Lawson, Jonte Green, Bill Bentley