2015 Detroit Lions Roster Analysis: Defensive End
By Nick Pursel
Jan 4, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Detroit Lions defensive end Darryl Tapp (52) sacks Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) in the NFC Wild Card Playoff Game at AT&T Stadium. Dallas beat Detroit 24-20. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
No. 52 Darryl Tapp
Age: 30
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 270
What has he done?
Darryl Tapp was brought back last year when Kyle Van Noy went on the IR designated to return list. He had a reasonably productive season as the Lions fourth defensive end with 17 total tackles and .5 sacks. He has the fourth most snaps at the position and was relied on heavily when injuries decimated the team. He even took some reps at defensive tackle against the Falcons when Nick Fairley got hurt. He is a versatile player who knows the defense but he is getting older and is right on the roster bubble.
What to expect?
He isn’t guaranteed a roster spot next season but is an option to fill the fourth or fifth defensive end role next year. He is an average player who can be successful in the right role. If he makes the team it’s as a reserve player who contributes on special teams.
Aug 9, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Phillip Hunt (56) after playing the New England Patriots at Lincoln Financial Field. The Patriots defeated the Eagles 31-22. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
No 58 Phillip Hunt
Age: 29
Height: 6’2″
Weight 260
What has he done?
Phillip Hunt was a CFL standout who led the league in sacks in 2010. He then signed a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles where he recorded 16 total tackles and three sacks before he tore his ACL in 2013. He is a relatively unknown player who hasn’t made much of an impact in the NFL yet.
What to expect?
Phillip is a pass rushing specialist with a lighting quick first step. He is another guy who could step in and fill the hole left by George Johnson. His career has followed a similar path and they play with a similar style. He should fight for a roster spot and potentially see the field in pass rushing situations.
Dec 21, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Corey Wootton (99) during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium. The Dolphins won 37-35. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
No 99 Corey Wootton
Age: 28
Height: 6’6″
Weight: 270
What has he done?
Corey Wootton is another veteran option at defensive end. He has played in 60 games over the past 5 seasons with 22 starts. He is a solid reserve player who is coming off a rough season with the Minnesota Vikings. He failed to make much of an impact last year and isn’t a great option for the team.
What to expect?
More likely than not Wootton will be cut during training camp. Webster and Taylor are almost guaranteed roster spots and Wootton can’t offer the pass rushing element that Hunt can bring a team or the versatility that Tapp brings. He is a long shot to make the roster.
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