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In successive seasons, the Detroit Lions were reliant on at least one of their undrafted free agents during the season. After injuries to LaAdrian Waddle and later Riley Reiff, undrafted free agent offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas plugged in at both tackle spots in different games to help stem the bleeding on the offensive line. He wasn’t as good as the aforementioned LaAdrian Waddle, who became a starter midway through his rookie campaign in 2013, but the impact of undrafted free agents on the Lions can’t be overstated.
Anthony Boone, QB, Duke
Unlike Brandon Bridge, Anthony Boone lacks many of the physical tools to succeed at the NFL level. In fact, he measured in slightly worse than Kellen Moore athletically. Boone helped lead Duke, once known only for basketball, to football relevance. His mechanics are shaky, every pass is a fastball, and his accuracy is poor.
There is a chance Anthony Boone can overtake Kellen Moore and beat out Brandon Bridge on the roster, albeit a small one. Last season, James Franklin came in as a camp arm and, briefly, flashed some ability. If Boone can do the same and maintain it throughout camp, he has a chance to stick as more than a camp arm.
Next: A Prolific Rusher, Undrafted?