Detroit Lions Roster: Who will be the #3 Receiver in 2015?
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Aug 22, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Jeremy Ross (12) during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Jeremy Ross
Why He Could Win It
Whether Lions fans like it or not, Jeremy Ross has a good chance of making the Detroit Lions roster.
Actually, I take that back. He has a great chance at making the roster.
The reason is that Ross is versatile. It’s a trait that can’t go unnoticed in the NFL. It’s also something Lions fans should be familiar with considering Ryan Broyles lack of it almost cost him his job in 2014.
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As mentioned above, Ross is more than just a wide receiver, he is also a solid run blocker and was once a solid kick and punt returner.
Why He Won’t Win It
Despite Ross’ noted ability to contribute in multiple areas, he did struggle considerably in 2014 — mainly with ball security issues.
He fumbled four times last season, losing two. He also put a ball on the ground against the Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs, but managed to recover his own muffed punt.
Ross, also led the NFL in fair catches, by a wide margin. That’s not all on a return man.
Still, when more than half of a team’s punt return attempts result in no gain, there’s a cumulative impact on field position.
Despite the added pressure, Ross isn’t sweating what he can’t control.
"“I can’t really focus on who is in here,” Ross said at Taste of the Lions event at Ford Field a few weeks ago. “I just have to prepare and win my spot every single year. Nothing is given. I have to earn everything that I get. That’s the same mindset I have this year. I will just work hard and everything else will just take care of itself.”"
Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
My Prediction
I think there is little doubt Ross will make this team. I also think that in certain situations he’ll be on the field as the teams third wideout — most obvious being third and short.
It is my hope that one of the younger guys can improve their blocking abilities which will in turn make Ross at least slightly less of an asset.
Nothing against the kid, but I feel his days as a kick returner are numbered and I hate to see a wide receiver take a roster spot as a run blocker.
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