Detroit Lions’ early 53-man roster projections: Wide receiver
If you like competition, then pay close attention to the Detroit Lions’ receivers. They are in good hands no matter how the depth plays out.
It’ll be a shame to see many worthy wide receivers not get the call to stick on the Detroit Lions‘ 53-man roster. The more competition there is, the better off the entire group can be. It’s a boost of confidence to see the wide receivers fight so hard everyday, making it increasingly difficult to determine the outcome of the roster.
IN
Five wide receivers is how the roster will shake out thanks to a few openings and changes to certain aspects of the offense. Versatility and flexibility will allow the group to lineup in multiple areas, regardless of their position. I’m prepared to stir up the pot with my own wild predictions.
Golden Tate
Yards after the catch and breaking tackles is his specialty and no other wide receiver in the NFL can outmatch him in those regards. He is arguably the most dangerous weapon on the Lions and will line up in a multitude of ways. Let’s hope he gets his extension soon because he needs to stay in Detroit.
Marvin Jones
Working with Randy Moss in the offseason should tell you something. It says he is hungry to replicate the hot start he had in 2016 before crashing back to earth. The breakout season is happening in 2017, and it might be one of the more under the radar storylines of the NFL.
Kenny Golladay
Chad Ochocinco sure likes what he sees in this rookie. The step up from Northern Illinois to the NFL will be tough, but I think the third round pick is up to the task. He brings a unique set of skill sets and size (6-4, 213 lbs) to the position that no other receiver has.
Jace Billingsley
There might be some other receivers edging ever so slightly ahead of him, but I think he offers the best combination of availability and ability. It’ll be too close of a battle for a bunch of guys so similar in talent and skill sets. Based off a hunch and upside, I think the Lions take the guy more capable of staying healthy and making an impact on both return units and offense.
Tim Wright
Known more as a red zone specialist than a tight end, he also has experience playing in college as a wide receiver. He would bring quality size (6-4, 220 lbs) as a wide receiver and he provides good depth at the tight end position that is seeing some struggles. The fact he has seen first-team reps so soon only means he is being taken seriously, regardless of him missing the entire 2016 season due to a torn ACL.
OUT
Not including the top three receivers, the rest of the group is so similar in stature, skill sets and health tendencies, that it makes it hard for them to truly stand out. At the end of the day, my predictions are based on who gives the Lions the best chance to succeed and win ball games while maintaining a solid level of diversity. The majority of the wide receivers are playing well, but only so many spaces are available.
TJ Jones
As promising as his play has been, every year he disappoints in some fashion. Health concerns and failing to be consistent is a trend for him to this point. Putting on some weight and flashing in camp are positives, but I don’t see it carrying over to the regular season.
Jared Abbrederis
Another wide receiver that has been impressive but has injury concerns. I see him for what he is and I’m not anticipating him to stay healthy. His lack of return ability also puts him in a worse spot than others.
Keshawn Martin
Perhaps the most dynamic wide receiver based on ability during camp. He limits his negative plays and stands out as a return man. Unfortunately, I don’t see it being able to last, as he has an extensive injury history and doesn’t have the consistency or upside like some of the other receivers.
Dontez Ford
Despite his ability, he had a hard time staying in the lineup at the University of Pittsburgh. The undrafted free agents’ rap career is more likely to take off than his football career, despite doing fairly decent at both.
Michael Rector
Speed is the greatest attribute this undrafted free agent has to offer. Stanford was fortunate to have him, and he managed to do okay despite the poor quarterback play. Drops plagued him in college and are lingering thus far in camp, so he will be dropped as well.
Noel Thomas
Reliable is a good way to describe the former UConn Huskie. You like to see undrafted free agents catch your eye, which he is one of three undrafted wide receivers doing so. Good hands can only get you so far if you can’t separate with speed, power or crisp route running.
Next: Ranking the 5 best Lions draft classes of the past 30 years
Dez Stewart
Simply a camp body, who was brought in for another camp body, who went out with an injury. He is plenty familiar with practice squads, so if he is lucky, he might become acquainted with Detroits’.