Detroit Lions: The best athlete isn’t always the best player

As we prepare for the feats of superhuman athleticism that will take place on the Lucas Oil turf starting this Friday, every fan who will be glued to the NFL Network to watch their favored prospects needs to remember this one important fact; the best athlete’s aren’t always the best players.

There have been all too many players that were workout Tarzan’s but played like Jane’s on Sundays. It’s the nature of the beast.

The smart teams have entered the combine with their list of prospects already graded and only use the combine to answer any athletic questions that may linger. But one rule of thumb that is a pretty good barometer to go by is the simple question; was any prospect that wowed you productive in college?

Very rarely will players go from good in college to great in the NFL. Just because they suddenly display an amazing time in the 40-yard dash or an incredible amount of reps in the bench press, doesn’t mean they are ready to blossom into stars.

Every team should remember the old saying caveat emptor, which means buyer beware.

Players can either play or they can’t. Some players have put up huge numbers in the collegiate ranks simply because they were superior athletes which is why they were invited to the combine to begin with.

But the days of being head and shoulders better than your competition is over. The NFL has players that will very quickly unmask a pretender.

However, players that were not only fine athletes but played the game with good technique and discipline will find those traits to be a huge benefit in the NFL.

Superstars in the NFL don’t dominate their opponents with athleticism, they start their dominance on the practice field and by watching film. Show me a good athlete who is smart, works hard and is passionate and I’ll show you a player who can have a long productive career.

Tom Brady was no workout wonder, yet look at him. Those who remember former Lions middle linebacker, Chris Spielman also remember how productive he was despite not being overly gifted as an athlete. Both of those players exhibited smarts, work ethic and passion to be the best they can.

The point is simple; the Lions brass, like every other team in the league, have their work cut out for them this weekend. As much as we love athletes as fans, we would prefer to get players.