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Detroit Lions: 3 potential breakout candidates to watch

By Steven Mullenax

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 4: Brandon Powell #10 of the Detroit Lions runs with the ball in the second quarter of the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - NOVEMBER 4: Brandon Powell #10 of the Detroit Lions runs with the ball in the second quarter of the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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As the Detroit Lions prepare for the upcoming regular season, here are three potential breakout candidates to watch in 2019.

The beginning of OTAs starts to give fans of the Detroit Lions a hint of football to come. And with it comes the hope of a better season.

Along with some big name free agents and an impressive draft class, here are three current Lions’ players who could breakout in 2019.

Tracy Walker, S

The Lions made a prophetic choice when they selected Walker in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, despite not having a desperate need at the position at the time. A year later and Walker is poised to replace veteran starter Glover Quin, who was released by Detroit this offseason.

Despite his limited opportunities as a rookie, Walker showed the potential to become a star at the position. Pro Football Focus loved the young defensive back, ranking him one of the team’s best defenders in 2018.

Brandon Powell, WR

After the Lions traded veteran receiver and YAC King Golden Tate to the Philadelphia Eagles last season, it opened the door for undrafted rookie receiver Brandon Powell to earn the starting role.

Unfortunately, Powell was unable to take advantage of the opportunity in his first season. In the offseason, Detroit signed 33-year old Danny Amendola in the slot. But that might a great thing for Powell who can now learn from the veteran receiver.

If Powell can take a leap in his development, he could force the Lions to find him a much bigger role in 2019. And remember that Amendola is only on a one-year deal. So, Detroit could easily view the younger Powell as the future of the position if he exceeds expectations.

RaShaan Melvin, CB

As a veteran free agent, Melvin landed in a perfect opportunity to start in Detroit. The former Raider enters the offseason with only second round disappointment Teez Tabor and 2019 sixth rounder Amani Oruwariye as his only real competition for the starting role opposite of two-time Pro Bowler Darius Slay. That’s as long as the Lions decide to keep pricey free agent signee Justin Coleman in the slot.

Ranking the Lions’ first round picks since 2010. dark. Next

As opposing offenses ignore Slay’s side of the field, expect Melvin to get plenty of opportunities to shine in 2019 if he’s elected the starter. The 29-year old veteran is on a one-year deal and needs a good showing this season in order to secure himself a long term contract in Detroit … or elsewhere in 2020.

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