For the Detroit Lions the more tight ends, the merrier
By Robert Jones
The Detroit Lions have gone from having one of the weakest tight end groups in NFL history last season to a group that may be their headliners this year.
The Detroit Lions just wrapped up their rookie minicamp last weekend. Next week will begin O.T.A’s as the rookies will get their chance to hit the field with the veterans.
It’s a new year but the same routine we’ve seen for years in the NFL. Bring in new talent through the draft and free agency then blend carefully as each team tries to build a contender.
Lions general manager Bob Quinn and head coach Matt Patricia both feel confident they have improved their roster. They feel like they have made the right moves to improve themselves in the coaching staff and scouting department as well. In general, they believe this has been a successful offseason.
Last year there was just too much to do in the offseason. Too many moves that needed to be made to change a roster that was built for Jim Caldwell and his regime, to fit the philosophy that Matt Patricia brought with him and it showed on the field.
The former New England Patriots defensive guru found out just how difficult it can be to not only win in the NFL but also how hard it is to assemble a roster of players that fit his vision of what he wants the Detroit Lions to be.
The defense took half the season and a major trade for Damon ‘Snacks’ Harrison before they started to figure out how to play in Patricia’s scheme. This offseason they added more pieces that should fit nicely and have a chance to turn last years hot finish into a real strength.
They are now deeper on all levels of the defense and have a whole stable of players that fit Patricia’s scheme. The truth is that while there is certainly more work to be done on that side of the ball, they are still in position to be very good defensively. The offense, however, is an interesting tale of its own.