Detroit Lions headlines: Adding Jimmy Graham, Free agent running backs

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 24: Jimmy Graham
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 24: Jimmy Graham /
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Would the Detroit Lions be the perfect fit for free agent tight end Jimmy Graham? That story and more in today’s edition of headlines!

On Wednesday, we talked about the fact the Detroit Lions were fielding trade offers for former first round selection, tight end Eric Ebron. Today, if Ebron is dealt whom might replace him? How about former Seattle Seahawk and current free agent Jimmy Graham?

Plus, what options do the Lions have when it comes to free agent running backs? And what are the Motor City’s biggest positional needs? We’ll cover those topics and more in today’s headlines.

Why the Detroit Lions could pursue Jimmy Graham to replace Eric Ebron – MLive.com

If the Lions do trade away Eric Ebron this offseason, might Detroit try to fill that void at tight end in free agency? And should that player be Jimmy Graham? Due to his lack of success in Seattle and his age (31), I think most teams are undervaluing Graham. That could work out well for the Lions who need a reliable endzone target for quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Free agency offers options for Lions’ ailing run game – The Detroit News

The usual suspects are here. But one name I don’t think we talk enough about is LeGarrette Blount. This is the Rodney Dangerfield of running backs as Blount gets “no respect” year after year. Yet, he always seems to produce. Detroit needs a veteran back who can get those tough yards when their blocking breaks down. Blount could be that back.

Golden Tate, Marvin Jones make WR lesser priority for Lions in free agency – ESPN.com

It’s true that wide receiver isn’t a top priority for the Lions this offseason. But let’s not forget that Golden Tate is in the final year of his contract in 2018. And although the future looks bright for second-year receiver Kenny Golladay, he was far too inconsistent last season. There isn’t a reason for the Lions not to add a wide out or two via free agency or the draft this offseason. It’s just not an urgent need.

2018 NFL free agency: Biggest needs for each NFC team – NFL.com

Speaking of needs, the Lions biggest ones are at linebacker, defensive tackle and running back according to the above article. But the author also admitted it was difficult to narrow it down to just three needs as they appear to be plentiful in Detroit. I’d throw in offensive line and cornerback for good measure.

Next: Lions 2018 Pre-Free Agency 4-Round Mock Draft

Lions add former Pats safety Steve Gregory to staff – Pro Football Talk

Apparently there are one of two items on your résumé that are requirements for joining the Detroit Lions’ new coaching staff. You must have played or coached for the New England Patroits and/or Syracuse. With the addition of Gregory, you have yourself a Matt Patricia twofer.