Detroit Lions headlines: Tight end top priority? Drafting Penny
Will Detroit Lions’ fans implode if the Motor City takes another tight end in the first round of the draft? That hot topic and more in today’s headlines!
The Detroit Lions finally parted ways with former first round selection and draft disappointment Eric Ebron earlier this month. But with the starting tight end’s release, have the Lions made his position the team’s top priority in next month’s draft?
We take a closer look at the tight end position in the Motor City plus much more in today’s edition of headlines!
Matt Patricia: Detroit Lions’ biggest need is tight end – MLive.com
In the above article, the Lions’ new head coach points out the fact that their may be a deficiency at the tight end position. Detroit inked free agents Luke Willson and Levine Toilolo recently to help fill the voids left by Ebron and Darren Fells. Yet, both Willson and Toilolo are considered much better blockers than receivers. If the Lions want a pure receiving tight end, there are still some available in free agency and, of course, the upcoming NFL draft.
Elite, athletic tight ends scarce for Lions in NFL Draft – The Detroit News
So now the question turns to the draft. This year’s class appears to be pretty thin when it comes to truly talented tight ends. In fact, the prospects at the top of the draft will likely be primarily outstanding receivers. For example, many believe South Dakota State’s Dallas Goedert will be a first round pick. Where as a more complete tight end like Stanford’s Dalton Schultz, who is a better blocker, could fall to day three. Will this fact force Detroit to use their first round pick on a tight end? Probably not.
Lions not likely to sign Ziggy Ansah to long-term deal – Pro Football Talk
It’s clear the Lions placed the franchise tag on Ansah in large part due to his inconsistent play the past two seasons. Detroit apparently isn’t too keen on giving a long term extension to an aging pass rusher with his injury history.
Meet the Prospect: Rashaad Penny – DetroitLions.com
If Detroit opts to wait until the second round to address their need at running back, San Diego State’s Rashaad Penny would be a nice choice. Penny is a three-down back who could learn behind starter LeGarrette Blount for a season before taking over the reins in 2019.
Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0 - The First 20 Picks
Grading Lions’ free-agent moves reflects ho-hum level of signings – ESPN.com
Due to the franchise tagging of Ansah and the re-signing of some of their other players, the Lions have been a bit restricted in making moves this offseason due to their dwindling salary cap. But give Detroit’s front office credit. They have addressed many of their needs, adding size and depth to key positions. They’ll finish off their rebuild in the draft.