Detroit Lions: What can be learned from drafting Teez Tabor?
The Detroit Lions have had mixed success via the NFL Draft. What could GM Bob Quinn learn from drafting Teez Tabor in 2017? Let’s discuss it.
The Detroit Lions are trying to finish a very forgettable campaign. At 4-8 the Lions have looked worse than the Cleveland Browns, who seem to be improving. The lack of quality depth is apparent in Allen Park. General manager Bob Quinn has done some positive things and made some good picks via the draft. Today, we’re going to review the pick of Jalen “Teez” Tabor, and why he has not been successful.
For the record, Kick in the Crotch Weekly tries to remain positive, tries to be somewhat objective, and tries to give players, coaches, and other Detroit Lions personnel room to be human, as well. This look back at a decision is intended to see what might be learned from what most people would see as a mistake or pick that has not worked out. Perhaps, it is truly about the unpredictable nature of the NFL draft itself.
Side note: For those that don’t follow the NFL as closely as junkies like Kick in the Crotch Weekly, the Browns won exactly zero games just last season and have 4 wins and one tie, which is better than the Lions. The Browns struggles are largely due to youth and inexperience.
Circle back to the Motor City Kitties. The Lions struggles are not youth-related. The quarterback is a 10-year veteran. Almost every starter has more than 3 years in the NFL. This Lions team should be pushing for a playoff berth but cannot beat teams with backups and rookies starting at key places.
Tabor Bio
Teez Tabor is finishing his second full year in the NFL. Progress should be apparent. However, Tabor was not active for the last game versus the Rams simply because he wasn’t important enough, not due to injury. Mike Ford, just recently signed, suited up.
Teez has started a total of five games in two years for a cornerback-needy Detroit Lions team. Drafted out of the University of Florida with the 53rd overall pick in the second round of the 2017 draft, Tabor’s draft status indicates that he should be the full-time starter by now. These facts have Detroit fans frustrated.
Part of the vitriol directed at Tabor is due to the Detroit Lions overall struggles and poor winning percentage. However, Tabor has not performed up to his draft status, either. The criticism is also a reflection of who else the Lions could’ve taken at that same spot and the expectations that come with being a Round 2 pick.
Tabor is 6-0 feet, 201 pounds, which is good stature for his position. The University of Florida is an SEC (Southeastern Conference) team that plays very high-level competition. Tabor was a three-year player there and appeared in 37 games, which are all positive indicators.