Detroit Lions at the halfway mark: Positional report cards

Wide Receivers

This has been the strongest unit on the team through eight contests. The Lions have gotten an outstanding performance from at least one receiver in practically every week so far this season. They have a nice combination of speed, physicality and contested-catch prowess among their wideouts, and they have helped Stafford put together one of his most impressive seasons in years thus far.

Burgeoning third-year star Kenny Golladay ranks second in the NFL with four 100-plus yard receiving games and has already set a career-high with seven touchdown receptions. He has an excellent rapport with Stafford, has suction-cup hands and is a threat at every level of the field. He seems like a good bet not only for his first Pro Bowl appearance but for a hefty contract extension this offseason.

The Lions have also benefited from a bounce-back season from veteran Marvin Jones, who is on pace for his second career 1,000-yard season as well as a career-best in touchdown receptions. His four-touchdown performance in a loss to the Minnesota Vikings, along with some jaw-dropping catches in heavy traffic have put to rest any memories of his trying, injury-shortened year in 2018. His field-stretching prowess is a great fit for this offensive scheme.

Complementary pieces Danny Amendola and Marvin Hall have filled important roles for Detroit, with Amendola providing a tough, reliable option out of the slot, and Hall acting as a sneaky deep threat.

Hall’s acquisition off the street has been especially impressive as all but one of his five catches have gone for at least 34 yards. He is a good fit for Stafford’s powerful right arm and he could be in line for more targets in the second half of the season.

Grade: A