Detroit Lions: 3 veterans who may not make the cut this summer

Here are three veteran players who may have to post strong training camp performances in order to make the Detroit Lions’ active roster this year.

One of the reasons the annual NFL draft is so exciting is that it injects new talent onto existing rosters, reviving fan’s belief that their beloved franchise, like the Detroit Lions, could win it all this year. But the harsh reality is for every new face that enters the league, someone has to leave.

With that in mind, here are three veterans we believe could be in danger of not making the final-53 man roster in Detroit this summer.

Miles Killebrew, S

Despite having several opportunities since being a fourth-round selection by Detroit back in 2016, Killebrew has yet to carve himself out a significant role on the defense. And the fact the Lions have drafted safeties in the third round for the past two years doesn’t bode well for the fourth-year defender entering the final year of his rookie deal in Motown. But Killebrew’s role as Detroit’s special teams ace could save him as he posted a team-high 337 special team snaps in 2018. But will that fact be enough to keep him on the roster this summer?

Theo Riddick, RB

Coming off a season where he failed to get into the endzone for the first time in his pro career, the writing may be on the wall for Theo Riddick in the Motor City. The 28-year old dual-threat posted a career-low 6.3 yards per reception in 2018. And his 40 rushing attempts were his fewest in over four years Entering his seventh NFL season, Riddick faces some stiff competition in training camp, specifically rookie Ty Johnson whose speed and playmaking ability has wowed onlookers.

Marvin Jones, WR

Although this seems less likely than the other two, the idea the Lions could be looking to move on from Marvin Jones sooner rather than later has been floating around for a while now. And that’s mainly due to his current contract.

Marvin Jones is scheduled to incur a salary cap hit of over $9 million for each of the next two seasons. The 29-year old veteran is also coming off a season-ending knee injury, having played in only nine games last year. By moving on from Jones, Detroit can save nearly $4 million in cap space this year. The biggest question is who would replace him. If either veteran receiver Andy Jones or rookie Travis Fulgham dazzles the coaching staff this summer, perhaps a move will be made.