Detroit Lions: Roster breakdown, Week 1 against the Jets

THE OFFENSE CONTINUED …

Wide Receivers

The top four wide receivers was always clear: Golden Tate, Marvin Jones Jr., Kenny Golladay, and T.J. Jones. It was surprising that Detroit elected to keep two more receivers: Bradley Marquez and rookie Brandon Powell.

They may not dress every week, but hopefully Marquez and Powell can make contributions this season. Powell may even be something special at the starting slot position because of his speed, although that might be a couple years away.

Tight Ends

Tight end is the worst offensive position on the Detroit Lions roster. Veteran tight ends Luke Willson and Levine Toilolo should be decent options, at least blocking wise. Tight end Hakeem Valles was the most impressive during the preseason, and hopefully he carries that into the regular season.

Then there is tight end Michael Roberts. He had only four receptions in his rookie season, and showed very little during this preseason. Roberts has the size and pass catching ability to be something special, but his job was in jeopardy during training camp. Hopefully, this was just a hiccup, and he gets it going when the games count.

Offensive Line

Plenty has been invested in this position over the last three years. If this offense is going to do anything special, the Detroit Lions are counting on strong blocking.

Of course blocking for Stafford is a big key. He needs to stay upright. But blocking for the running game could transform this offense.

With the new additions at running back, consistency should be the minimum from the ground game. But if the rushing game can be exceptional this season, Stafford’s effectiveness as a passer will be improved ten-fold. A respectable running game will mean an explosive offense.