Ranking the Detroit Lions: Numbers 50 through 26
By Justin Simon
Dec 22, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; New York Giants running back
(35) is tackled by Detroit Lions cornerback
(33) during the third quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
45. Brandon Hepburn, LB
Hepburn has a chance to upgrade from the practice squad this season if he can prove his value on special teams. He’ll have to beat out Travis Lewis for the roster spot, but I like his upside.
44. Isa Abdul Quddus, FS
Claimed on waivers last February, Quddus probably has his best shot at making the roster as a special teams player and fourth safety. He has good size (6-1, 205), has starting experience (42 regular season games), and is only 24 years old. He could be a high upside backup.
43. Cornelius Lucas, OT
Lucas is a mountain of man (6-8, 328) and was the Lions’ prize undrafted free agent signing after this year’s draft. The Lions actually began contacting lucas in the fourth round, which speaks to how highly they feel about him. He probably won’t have to contribute a lot this year, but he should be able get better by working with Jeremiah Washburn and the rest of the offensive lineman, much like LaAdrian Waddle did last year.
42. Sam Martin, P
Normally punters probably wouldn’t even make it this high on the list, but Martin was fantastic last season. By all accounts, Martin is picking up where he left off, even booting a punt 84 yards during a recent minicamp. The Lions are better with Martin on the team.
41. Chris Greenwood, CB
I’m rooting for Chris Greenwood. he showed significant signs of improvement when given a chance last season, but he just can’t seem to stay healthy. He finally got back on the field for the end of mandatory minicamp, but he’ll really need to shine in training camp to prove he deserves a roster spot.