Detroit Lions headlines: Kerryon concerns, Extending Golden Tate
What concerns should Detroit Lions fans have about rookie running back Kerryon Johnson? We’ll discuss that and more in today’s headlines.
The Detroit Lions have many new and exciting questions to answer in the coming season. One area that fans will be watching very closely will be the Motor City’s ground game.
With new running backs LeGarrette Blount and Kerryon Johnson leading the charge, the Lions rushing attack is expected to be much improved in 2018. But what concerns should fans have about their new rookie running back? We’ll discuss that topic and more in today’s headlines.
O’HARA: Questions facing Lions rookies – DetroitLions.com
Durability and his hands are the top concerns for second rounder Kerryon Johnson, as listed in the above article by longtime columnist Mike O’Hara. Johnson had several injuries in both college and in high school, likely due to his aggressive running style.
Luckily, the rookie running back is expected to split carries with Blount in 2018. So it should give Johnson time to adjust to the pro game and develop prior to being handed the workhorse role. Still, injury concerns will likely prompt Detroit to re-invest in the position next year as well.
There is no question Golden Tate has been the Lions most consistent offensive weapon outside of quarterback Matthew Stafford under center. But Tate is turning 30-years old before the start of the regular season. He’s also in the final year of his contract in Detroit. Although it’s expected that the Lions will offer him an extension, I wouldn’t be surprised if the team opted simply to move on if they deem his price tag too high.
What late-round rookie could make biggest impact for Lions in 2018? – ESPN.com
Of all the Day Three selections that could make the biggest impact in their rookie season, I believe the answer is Alabama defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand. Even more so than fifth round steal Tyrell Crosby. I believe the Oregon offensive lineman is the bigger steal of the two and will ultimately be the more heralded player in time. But as for year one, Hand will have an instant opportunity to provide impactful play along a defensive line under new management.
PFF 2018 NFL Draft Quotable – NFC North – Pro Football Focus
The biggest come away I took from these quotes by Bob Quinn is the fact the Lions general manager believes rookie running back Kerryon Johnson and Ameer Abdullah will compete for playing time. I think in most eyes, Abdullah is done in Detroit. But not for the young GM, who clearly is still texting heart emojis to the former second rounder out of Nebraska.
Next: Detroit Lions: 15 best first-round draft picks of all-time
Former Rams, Seahawks coach Chuck Knox dies at 86 – NFL.com
The name Chuck Knox is a famous one in football circles. Likely know more for his time with the Seattle Seahawks in the mid-1980’s through 1991, the longtime head coach actually spent time in the Motor City. From 1967 until 1972 Knox was the Lions’ offensive line coach. After leaving Detroit, he spent the next 17 years as an NFL head coach for four different franchises.