Detroit Lions biggest surprise just around the corner

GAINESVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 15: Teez Tabor #31 of the Florida Gators crosses the goal line for a touchdown after making an interception during the game against the Missouri Tigers at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
GAINESVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 15: Teez Tabor #31 of the Florida Gators crosses the goal line for a touchdown after making an interception during the game against the Missouri Tigers at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on October 15, 2016 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /
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DETROIT, MI – DECEMBER 16: Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen #29 is tackled by Detroit Lions cornerback Teez Tabor #30 during the second half at Ford Field on December 16, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI – DECEMBER 16: Chicago Bears running back Tarik Cohen #29 is tackled by Detroit Lions cornerback Teez Tabor #30 during the second half at Ford Field on December 16, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Now as we fast forward to this offseason, there was much attention given to the Lions secondary. Despite the fact that they had performed much better than expected last year, Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia didn’t rest on their laurels.

Corner back De’Shawn Shead was signed as a free agent from Seattle. Both Nevin Lawson and Tavon Wilson were re-signed and the Lions used their third round pick in this past draft to select Louisiana-Lafayette safety Tracy Walker.

What had been a good secondary last year has gotten more talented.

The two constants we know will be starting this fall are Darius Slay at one corner and Glover Quin at safety. The other safety position will most likely be manned by either Quandre Diggs who was outstanding when moved to the position last year or Tavon Wilson who was injured to give Diggs the opportunity.

Lawson was the other corner last year, but so far his status is a little cloudy. The reason? Because in almost every practice open to the media this offseason Teez Tabor has been working with the first unit.

As opposed to Lawson, Tabor is a long rangy corner. Tabor has also apparently been learning his lessons well from the teams resident Pro Bowler on the other side, Darius Slay. He has spent his time playing well against the decidedly talented receiver corps the Lions are able to deploy.

As a matter of fact, not only has Tabor not looked out of place, but those that have been able to watch him in action during the last few weeks have raved at how good he has looked.

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Last season the Lions secondary did a commendable job in coverage despite the lack of a consistent pass-rush. This year the unit should be better, especially if they can get some steady pressure on opposing passers. But even with the units improvement, from what we’ve seen this offseason, don’t be surprised if Teez Tabor goes from much maligned draft pick to starting corner back.