5 under the radar free agents the Detroit Lions can steal
By Mike Payton
Jake Long
Aug 17, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams tackle Jake Long (77) defends against Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Clay Matthews (52) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports
By far the most unlikely of any player listed in today’s article is former University of Michigan standout Jake Long. The 1st overall selection of the 2008 NFL Draft is a nice addition for the Lions in theory.
Matthew Stafford got sacked 45 times last season and it’s clear by the Lions moves in this years drat that they don’t intend to allow that to happen again. In comes Jake Long to stabilize that intention. The Lions could either keep Riley Reiff at left guard and line Long up on the right, or put Long at his natural position on the left side. It would work out perfectly. But there’s also this.
Jake Long turns 30 in May, has torn ACL twice and hasn't played a full season since 2010. What's appealing there?
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) March 9, 2015
Like I said it works really well in theory. I really don’t think this would ever happen, but in this case the Lions have one heck of a bargaining chip with Long’s injuries. In fact any team does. Long will likely be a cheap edition that could potentially be an upgrade for the team that gets him. If he can stay healthy. The odds are unfortunately against him.
What do you think? Who should the Lions scoop up for cheap? Or are you happy with the roster as is? Leave your comments below and be sure to follow us on Twitter @SideLionReport and @Lionmike26