Detroit Lions’ early 53-man roster projections: Safety
Not the strongest position group from top to bottom, the Detroit Lions could still be pleasantly surprised by this unit come the start of the 2017 regular season.
During the offseason, there have been some interesting storylines taking place. Many of those storylines have ties to the safety position. I see a little bit of a shake-up at the Detroit Lions‘ safety position.
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Much of what I am predicting is simply educated speculation. Two different safeties will make the roster compared to last seasons’ group. I should definitely raise some eyebrows here.
Glover Quin
The unquestioned leader and arguably the best defender on the Lions isn’t going anywhere. Signing him to an extension that could potentially allow him to finish out his career in Detroit is paramount. They don’t come more reliable in the NFL than this cat.
Tavon Wilson
Whenever a player is being investigated for assault against a woman, it is serious. Unfortunately, no one knows how serious the allegations against him are and how the scenario will play out. Based on his talent and body of work from last season, he is destined to make the roster.
Miles Killebrew
A lot is expected of this second-year player to step into a bigger role. Easily the most popular choice to be the breakout defender by most fans and even fellow sports writers means he is unquestionably safe to make the final cuts. Stealing away the starting strong safety spot isn’t out of the question either.
Alex Carter
So far, there is no clear evidence of this third-year corner turned safety making the roster. This prediction is rather bold but could pay off because of his versatility and exceptional athleticism. Making the case for this young defender might be weak at the moment, but I feel it is too early to write him off just yet.
Adairius Barnes
He made the roster as an undrafted free agent last year, so expect him to find his way back. Although I envision him as the new franchise special teams ace, I list him at safety because he has a better chance of seeing the field there. Whether you slot him at cornerback or safety makes no difference, because this gunner can actually contribute on defense and has the youth as well as upside to warrant stashing on the final roster.
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Behind the starters, there is a lot of youth and growth that needs to take place. Certain young players provide more upside and are cheaper to keep over some of the veterans that aren’t that much better. The other young players fighting to keep their NFL careers alive will fall short.
Don Carey
Some say that availability is the best ability, so what does that mean for one of the best special teamers in the NFL? Dealing with an injury and missing OTAs isn’t a surprise for this often banged up veteran. His lack of ability to play defense and stay healthy means the Lions can move on and in the process gain $975,000 in cap space.
Charles Washington
A camp body last season, and a camp body this season. Versatility is something he possess, but he doesn’t posses the ability necessary to earn his way on the 53-man squad. The practice squad is a different story though, as he was on it in 2016 and could very well make it there again in 2017.
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Rolan Milligan
Injured before he could play last preseason with the Dallas Cowboys. The depth at safety will be tough to overcome. In all fairness, I don’t expect him to threaten anyone’s job.