Ranking the Detroit Lions: Numbers 50 through 26
By Justin Simon
Dec 16, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions tight end
(80) makes a touchdown catch will being pressured by Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker
(51) during the fourth quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
30. Cassius Vaughn, CB
It’s probably best for the Lions if Vaughn isn’t asked to start this year, but he may be pressed into that role at some point during the season. So far he’s brought a solid presence to the secondary, and should be a good role model for the younger guys.
29. Travis Swanson, OG/C
I don’t think Swanson will make much of impact this year, but he’s more than likely going to be the starting left guard or center of the future. Swanson has gotten reps at both spots so far this offseason.
28. Joseph Fauria, TE
The big tight end will continue to be a prime red zone target this upcoming season. He’ll most likely end up backing up Eric Ebron as the split tight end in Lombardi’s offense. He should have a bigger role in 2014, just not as big as he may like.
27. Brandon Pettigrew, TE
The former first round pick may not have panned out how the Lions planned when they drafted him in 2009, but he definitely still has a role. Like Fauria, his snaps may be cut due to Eric Ebron, but he should have a more effective role now that he won’t be asked to do too much.
26. Jason Jones, DE
Jason Jones will have a very important role in the Lions new look defense. He’ll be playing the closed side defensive end opposite of Ziggy Ansah. Rather than looking to get to the passer on every snap, his new role will play to his strengths. He’ll be asked to stop the run and allow others to make plays around him, much like a 5 technique in the 3-4 defense.