Trinity Benson named Lions surprising offseason standout

San Francisco 49ers cornerback Ambry Thomas (20) tackles Detroit Lions wide receiver Trinity Benson (17) during the second half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021.
San Francisco 49ers cornerback Ambry Thomas (20) tackles Detroit Lions wide receiver Trinity Benson (17) during the second half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021.

Trinity Benson needs a strong training camp, and he’ll head into it off a strong showing during offseason work.

The Detroit Lions added pieces to their wide receiver room this offseason, which will foster the competition receivers cach Antwaan Randle El wants for his group. Among those pushed toward the roster bubble is Trinity Benson, who was one of the team’s standouts during OTAs.

Each of ESPN’s NFL team beat writers have named a surprising offseason standout for the team they cover. For the Lions, beat writer Eric Woodyard tabbed Benson.

"WR Trinity BensonAfter last season, Benson approached coach Dan Campbell directly during his exit meeting to ask for advice on how to come back better. So far, he has taken all of that advice as Campbell praised him during minicamp as one of the guys who is “having a hell of a spring.” Benson has learned the playbook and elevated his confidence by adding speed to his skill set. He’ll still have fight for a spot among a competitive receiving corps that has added talent."

Trinity Benson seizing opportunity to stand out and possibly move off roster bubble

Performances during OTAs, with no pads or contact, have to be taken with a grain of salt. But Benson, who the Lions acquired from the Denver Broncos late in the 2021 preseason, needs to stand out at any opportunity he gets.

Benson had 10 receptions for 103 yards in eight games last season, his first career NFL catches in his third season. He was also inactive or in uniform but didn’t play in seven of the last eight games.

Head coach Dan Campbell noted how Benson’s best asset has shone through as he operates with more confidence.

Quintez Cephus also looked good during OTAs, as he enters a training camp competition with Benson for what might be one 53-man roster spot.

The status of rookie Jameson Williams (PUP list?) will be a big factor in how many wide receivers the Lions keep going into the season. But Benson needed to assert himself from the get-go this offseason, and he’ll head into training camp with good momentum.

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