Ranking the Detroit Lions: Numbers 50 through 26
By Justin Simon
Aug 9, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints fullback
(45) is upended by Kansas City Chiefs defensive back Otha Foster (42) during the second half of a preseason game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Chiefs 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
50./49. Chad Abram and Jed Collins, FB
Abram has a really good shot to make the roster as an UDFA. He’s a dynamic special teams player and could even warrant a few offensive snaps throughout the year. With Jed Collins play tailing off Joe Lombardi’s penchant for using a fullback, look for Abram to play an even bigger role moving forward.
48. Nate Freese, K
The rookie out of Boston College is heading into training camp in a battle with Giorgio Tavecchio for the starting kicking job. Unless something goes horribly wrong, Freese should earn his way onto the squad.
47. Kevin Ogletree, WR
The Tampa Bay outcast made enough plays last year that the Lions rewarded him with a modest deal on the first day of free agency. Ogletree isn’t spectacular as a receiver, but he’s versatile enough to play inside or outside.
46. Caraun Reid, DT
Another rookie who has a shot to make some plays for the Lions next season. The problem for Reid is two fold. First, coming from the Ivy League he’s going to have a bit of a learning curve adjusting to the NFL game. Second, he’s going to be the fourth defensive tackle at best heading into camp. If Reid can become as productive as former small school defensive tackle Sammie Lee Hill, the Lions would be thrilled.