Detroit Lions: Two players to watch against the Giants

The Detroit Lions might end up making some very interesting choices this preseason. Hopefully, these moves are just another step towards success.

The first preseason game for the Detroit Lions was pretty ho-hum. Probably a good thing, as preseason is mostly about getting knocked around a bit while avoiding any catastrophic injuries.

For Week 2 of the preseason, the New York Giants will visit Ford Field on Friday at 7 p.m. ET. There are two things of interest for this upcoming game.

IF AMEER IS IN, THEN WHO IS OUT?

Running back Ameer Abdullah has struggled in three years with the Detroit Lions. Most of his issues have centered around injuries that either kept him off the field, or that simply nagged him the entire season.

Abdullah looked decent against the Oakland Raiders last Friday, even scoring a rushing touchdown. But what was most impressive was to see Ameer returning kicks. This adds another dimension to his game and another reason to keep Abdullah on the roster.

The truth is Abdullah has no trade value. Teams have seen the injury issues and are probably aware that the Lions have more talent in the backfield this year. So, any team that likes Ameer would likely wait for him to be cut.

With running backs LeGarrette Blount, Kerryon Johnson, and Theo Riddick as locks in the backfield, that leaves a maximum of two slots on the roster. Assuming Detroit carries five backs, a healthy Abdullah will take the fourth spot.

So, for the fifth spot, the Detroit Lions will have to make a tough decision. Fullback Nick Bellore has versatility as a converted linebacker and help on special teams. But does Detroit carry a fullback? It is a position that many teams don’t even use.

Then there is running back Zach Zenner. He too is good on special teams. Nothing spectacular from Zenner in terms of the ground game, but he is a very capable blocker in pass protection.

If Abdullah stays healthy, it comes down to Bellore or Zenner for the final spot. Running back Dwayne Washington is the odd man out on this Detroit Lions roster. Washington is average at best, and his time in Detroit looks to be at an end.

THE END OF RUDOCK?

When quarterback Matt Cassel was signed to the Detroit roster, it was hard to see where he would fit. Third-year quarterback Jake Rudock should have the edge as Matthew Stafford’s backup, mostly because of his familiarity with the offense.

But when Cassel started (and end up finishing) the first preseason game against Oakland, the question arose: has Rudock lost his job? It’s just one exhibition game, but you would think Rudock would be a lock to start.

Much can change over the next three weeks. And, to be honest, neither guy looked good against Oakland. But could Cassel be a better long-term number two?

Because of his age, Cassel (age 36) might be cheaper over the next few years. Rudock (age 25) is still young and would certainly like a chance to start. That may mean looking for a team without a franchise quarterback. Meanwhile, Cassel might be willing to settle into wearing the headset and waiting in the wings.

Like Abdullah, there probably isn’t a great market for Rudock. He hasn’t wowed anyone enough to demand giving up an asset. Which, in of itself, is why Rudock is expendable.

Rudock can still win the job, but the next two games are going to determine who is the second string quarterback. Because of so much depth at other positions, it would be too wasteful to carry a third passer. So only one, Cassel or Rudock, will make the roster.

Whatever happens, it is good to see that the roster has some clear upgrades. While capable players might be cut from these two positions, neither will be any kind of real loss. The next two weeks should be interesting, especially on the offensive side of the ball.