It’s been a rather uneventful week for the Detroit Lions as we get further into the offseason. Things should begin to pick up as we get closer to free agency and the draft, but for now, the only thing Lions fans can do is play the waiting game. In the meantime, let’s get you up to date on all your Detroit Lions news throughout the week.
Lions Retain Jim Bob Cooter as Offensive Coordinator
The Lions have made the decision to install Jim Bob Cooter as the permanent OC.
Big piece of Jim Caldwell staying with #Lions: It means coveted offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter will stay with him. Huge for Stafford
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 15, 2016
Jim Bob Cooter has done exceptionally well since taking over for Joe Lombardi as the OC in week 8. Matthew Stafford posted some of the best efficiency numbers of his career this past year and it all started when Jim Bob Cooter took over the play calling duties.
During the first 7 games under Joe Lombardi this season, Stafford threw 12 touchdown passes and 9 interceptions; some were even questioning Stafford’s future with the team after getting benched in week 5 vs. Arizona. However, after the bye week, Stafford threw 19 touchdowns and just picks 2 picks while leading the Lions to a 6-2 record during the second half of the season. Given Stafford’s success under Jim Bob Cooter, it seemed like a no brainier to retain him as the permanent offensive coordinator.
Darius Slay Hires a New Agent
Darius Slay hired a new agent this past week in hopes of getting a contract extension with the Lions.
Lions CB Darius Slay hires new agent, Drew Rosenhaus https://t.co/QXaRgGPcDy via @detroitnews
— Josh Katzenstein (@jkatzenstein) January 18, 2016
This past season was the best of Slay’s young career and it makes a lot of sense for Lions to get him locked up to a long-term deal. Slay has established himself as a solid No.1 cornerback for the Lions and he’s given them stability at the position. Slay was the second highest graded cornerback this past season according to Pro Football Focus and he’s quickly becoming one of the best players at his position.
Zenner expects to be ready for next season
Zach Zenner plans to return in 2016 after suffering multiple cracked ribs and a collapsed lung.
RB Zach Zenner confident he'll be ready for 2016 season. https://t.co/Qc9GN2UCyI
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) January 19, 2016
The Lions placed Zenner on season-ending IR after he suffered a rather serious injury in week 6. The fan favorite out of South Dakota State signed as an undrafted free agent with the Lions and was a standout player during the preseason. He earned a spot on 53-man roster and was beginning to see an increased workload before the injury abruptly ending his rookie season.
Ziggy donates water to Flint
Ziggy Ansah donated 94,000 bottles of water to Flint, Michigan.
Ansah recruited some friends to help him deliver 94,000 bottles of water to Flint pic.twitter.com/AmRPTFRTWI
— Tim Twentyman (@ttwentyman) January 22, 2016
Not only does Ziggy Ansah stand out on the football field, he also stands out in the community. The city of Flint has had problems with their water recently, causing it to be harmful if consumed. Ziggy Ansah, along with some help from his defensive line, delivered 94,000 bottles of water to the citizens of Flint on Friday. The Redskins defensive line also pitched in and donated 3,600 bottles of Fiji water as well.
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