4 Detroit Lions that must prove themselves in 2015

Brandon Pettigrew

Nov 28, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (87) during the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers during a NFL football game on Thanksgiving at Ford Field. Detroit won 40-10. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

What happened to Brandon Pettigrew? There was a time when Pettigrew was considering an up and coming tight end in the NFL. His 2010 and 2011 seasons were productive and showed him to be a nice receiving threat for the Lions.

Then 2012 happened. Pettigrew began the transformation into the player he currently is. Multiple fumbles and drops and conveniently bad times and his targets began to rapidly dissipate. Most fans were sure that Pettigrew had played his last season in Detroit in 2013. Then the Lions signed Pettigrew to a new deal after he flirted with New York Jets. Pettigrew went on to record a dismal 10 receptions for 70 yards in 2014, completing his fall from grace in dumpster fire like proportions.

I understand that Pettigrew is a great blocking tight end, but the Lions needed a receiving threat last season and Pettigrew seemingly did nothing to help that cause. Pettigrew needs to step up in 2015 and show some kind fo semblance to his early career, or the Lions will have no choice but to let him walk. It would appear that he may get his chance to prove himself in 2015.

Will he make the best of it?

What do you think? Who needs to prove it? Who is it to late for? Leave your comments below and be sure to follow us on Twitter @SideLionReport and @Lionmike26