Detroit Lions headlines: T.J. Lang to IR, Tanking the season
For the Detroit Lions, things are getting worse instead of getting better under head coach Matt Patricia. We’ll dive into today’s top headlines.
Coming off a 9-7 record in 2017, and after hiring the top coaching prospect available in former New England Patriots’ defensive coordinator Matt Patricia this offseason, the Detroit Lions should have had a banner year in 2018. Unfortunately, through nine games, it’s been a disaster.
Sitting at the bottom of the NFC North standings with a 3-6 record, it seems unlikely that Detroit will be able to match the moderate success they had under former head coach Jim Caldwell in 2017. And the honeymoon period between Patricia and this disappointed fanbase is definitely over.
To add injury to insult, the Lions just placed one of their lone Pro Bowl players on Injured Reserve. We’ll cover that news and more in today’s edition of headlines.
Lions put guard T.J. Lang on IR – ESPN.com
Has Pro Bowl guard T.J. Lang played his last game in Detroit? It seems possible. The 31-year old has dealt with multiple injuries during his two-year stint in the Motor City. Still, he’s been named to two consecutive Pro Bowls. But his numerous injuries have certainly contributed to the instability along this offensive line. Detroit may need to dip back into free agency next offseason rather than paying Lang’s $8.25 million price tag in 2019.
Detroit Lions mailbag: Tanking not the answer with 7 games to play – Detroit Free Press
I’ve never been a fan of tanking myself. To me, it sends the wrong message to the team and is against the spirit of what the draft intended. Still winning meaningless games doesn’t improve the roster. Talented players do. And that’s tough to argue against in late April when teams are scrambling to draft the top collegiate players.
Kenny Golladay and Corey Davis are living up to their potential – Pro Football Focus
I think we’ve all been impressed by the improved play of Golladay this season. The 2017 third rounder has played like a legitimate number one at times and should give all fans hope for the future.
Pro Bowl voting is open, but how don’t the Lions have contenders? – MLive.com
Yeah, I don’t think anyone is kidding themselves here. The historically winning teams get these kinds of accolades. And even the Lions top players, like cornerback Darius Slay, take much longer to be recognized because they play in Motown. After their performance through nine games, I wouldn’t be surprise if the only Lion to receive a Pro Bowl nod is defensive tackle Damon Harrison.
Next. Top Five Video Game Detroit Lions of All Time. dark
Jim Bob Cooter: Protecting Matthew Stafford better starts with me – Pro Football Talk
As one of the only members of the coaching staff to survive the Patricia transition this offseason, Cooter will likely be this year’s scapegoat. The passing offense has taken a hit this season, despite the presence of a real rushing attack. General manager Bob Quinn, Patricia and quarterback Matthew Stafford aren’t going anywhere. That only leaves Cooter.