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Detroit Lions free agency mirrors the New England Patriots

By Brian Wallace

ALLEN PARK, MI - FEBRUARY 07: General Manager Bob Quinn of the Detroit Lions speaks at a press conference after introducing Matt Patricia as the Lions new head coach at the Detroit Lions Practice Facility on February 7, 2018 in Allen Park, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
ALLEN PARK, MI - FEBRUARY 07: General Manager Bob Quinn of the Detroit Lions speaks at a press conference after introducing Matt Patricia as the Lions new head coach at the Detroit Lions Practice Facility on February 7, 2018 in Allen Park, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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When it comes to signing veterans, fans need to pause and exhale. The Detroit Lions have actually made some smart choices in free agency.

Fans wondered, some very vocal about just what the Detroit Lions were doing as free agency opened last week. General manager Bob Quinn was following what he knows “the Patriots way.” Lions fans are wary of the term as it changes the culture on the organization.

For years the Patriots signed second and third tier free agents. Sure, once and a great while they would sign a big name. But, by and large, they wanted to add to the supporting cast to strengthen the core players. They did and do a stellar job year in and year out. It is a blueprint that should be followed.

Flash forward to last week. The Detroit Lions did the same thing. Adding a couple linebackers, offensive guard, running back, and cornerback. Upgrades and depth were added. Lions fans sill complained. Even though the players signed were seemingly better than the players who left via free agency. It also added needed depth.

Before free agency started Quinn even told the media the plan was to sign second and third tier free agents. He did exactly what he said he was going to. This speaks volumes to how Quinn feels about the teams current core roster. He was wise to bring in veterans who have only been in the NFL a few years vs 10+ years.

It also shows that Quinn is counting on head coach Matt Patricia and his staff to coach players up and put them in position to succeed. Fans in Detroit are not use to this. But this recipe has fueled the Patriots’ prolonged success.

Next: What flavor of running back do you prefer?

In the end I believe Bob Quinn has made the right call. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. It has worked in New England. It should translate into success in Detroit. Time will tell, and time is needed. But the Detroit Lions, are better today than they were this time last week.

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