The offensive line depth was poor for the Detroit Lions in 2017. It looks much more promising this year, but there’s stiffer competition.
It’s not every day that you get a four-year college starter on your football team. Luckily for the Detroit Lions, they have themselves an offensive lineman who did just that.
Formally of the University of Arkansas, offensive tackle Dan Skipper is looking to make the 53-man roster as a backup. His unrivaled size (6-9, 317) peaked the Lions’ interest.
Activated only once, Skipper spent the majority of his rookie season on the practice squad. Why would such a decorated collegiate go undrafted and make such little impact?
The second-year lineman’s most unique feature could also be his biggest weakness, his height. Being so tall, Skipper is exposed because of his lack of leverage. He really needed to take a redshirt season to get a stronger anchor.
There’s no denying his track record and versatility. Over 51 games, Skipper had 47 straight starts. He saw action mostly at left tackle, followed by right tackle and left guard. This diversity gives him a great shot at making the roster.
The competition at tackle isn’t too scary either. Corey Robinson has shown promise and athleticism by playing right guard when he’s traditionally a swing tackle, but he’s often injured. Brian Mihalik was bad in spot duty and only plays tackle.
Adam Bisnowaty is a quality tackle but injuries have derailed his career. Tyrell Crosby is the safest given he’s a rookie who can play tackle but has been talked about as a guard also.
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Daunting isn’t a term I’d use to describe the path to a roster gig for Dan Skipper. The Lions should feel fortunate they have him in Detroit with an opportunity to create one of the most well-rounded offensive line units in the NFL.