May 27, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Lance Moore (16) during OTA at Detroit Lions Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Lance Moore
Why He Could Win It
For myself, two things come to mind when I think of Lance Moore — perseverance and determination.
That’s because Moore entered the league as an undrafted free agent in the 2005 NFL Draft. He signed with the Cleveland Browns before eventually being cut. The following year he spent time in both NFL Europe and on the New Orleans Saints practice squad.
Eventually, he would obviously prove himself and become a viable part of the Saints Super Bowl run. That’s where he ties into the Lions.
Moore seen his most success while playing under and around current Lions offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi in the big easy. He is an intelligent player, which shows in Lombardi’s offense that relies heavily on timing.
"“It’s definitely motivated me,” Moore said. “I would say that I’ve never been so excited to go to practice, I’ve never been so excited to really just have another chance. Like I said, I’ve been in the league 11 years. I’ve been cut five times. You never really know when it’s going to be over, and I knew, in the back of my mind, that it wasn’t quite over, but I wasn’t sure whether I’d get an opportunity or get the right opportunity. I feel like things couldn’t have worked out any better for me, so I’m going to make the most of this opportunity.”"
Why He Won’t Win It
Let’s face it, 32-years-old is up there in professional football. In my opinion, most players start their downward swing at 30 — especially skilled position players.
That doesn’t mean Moore can’t still play or can’t contribute, but it doesn’t exactly help either.
My Prediction
After a lot of consideration, I’ve been back and forth on Moore.
Last week during an appearance on Lions Central Radio of the Pro Football Central Network, I said that I though Moore could find himself as the odd man out when roster cuts show their ugly head.
Now however, my opinion has changed. I think it is impossible to overlook the veteran leadership ability of Moore.
The guy has been through a lot. He is a great role model to the younger guys on the Detroit Lions roster, and is a prime example of what an NFL player should be.
For Moore, the formula for getting noticed – even in an optional offseason training session – hasn’t changed.
"“I’ve been blessed to be at the right place at the right time a few times,” he said. “The thing that’s kept me around for a while is the attitude of not quite making it yet. I’m going to be one of those guys that comes out each day and reminds coaches I’m here.”"
I think his determination will pay dividends and he could find himself on the field more often than not in 2015.