Detroit Lions patience in free agency might just pay off
By Robert Jones
The other major move occurred as the heaven’s opened up and angel’s started to sing, at least for the Lions faithful, and Detroit was able to add former Denver Bronco and Tennessee Titans nose-tackle, Sylvester Williams. This was the acquisition of a quality player at a position of desperate need that finally will allow the fans to breathe easier.
The bonus is that the Lions are still scheduled to meet with free agent Johnathan Hankins, who is another hometown hero and another great fit for the Lions at nose-tackle.
These moves have also opened up the Lions options in the draft. They can go edge rusher in the first round to help the Lions pathetic pass-rush. They can also still get a quality defensive tackle prospect in the second, third or fourth round because of the depth at the position.
Bob Quinn told the world what he would do and he hasn’t deviated one bit from it. He has mined that second tier of free agents and has done so with the type of success needed to help put the Lions in a position to be able to compete next season.
If the Lions are able to land Hankins, that would prove to be the one lone big name signing they will have made, at least so far. However, things will take on a new light when Quinn and Patricia make their selections in the rapidly approaching 2018 NFL draft.
Free agency sets up the draft and with this flurry of activity the Lions are setting themselves up with options. The ability to get two or three players in the draft that can contribute right away and still get a couple of players that will add depth, coupled with what they have accomplished in free agency, would make this a successful offseason in terms of molding the roster.
Next: How the Detroit Lions can be successful on defense in 2018
The 2018 Detroit Lions will look different because of the philosophy changes that naturally go with bringing in a new coaching regime. However, if they can continue their momentum to finish out their free agency shopping and be opportunistic in the draft, this team may start to live up to Bob Quinn’s expectations.
And the hopes of long suffering Lions fans as well.