The Detroit Lions have a major competition brewing to see who will replace Kalif Raymond this season on special teams, and there might be a few early answers brewing that are very interesting.
Most expect the Lions to use the reliable and underrated Greg Dortch in that role once the season gets underway. In Detroit's first preseason game, the Lions had a group of players that were showcased in the role as they saved miles on Dortch.
In the 16-14 loss to the Bengals, running back Raheem Blackshear handled three kickoff returns racking up 78 yards. Wideout Dominic Lovett had one 27 yard return, and running back Kye Robichaux ripped off a 26 yarder. In terms of punts, Lovett handled two for 13 yards, and Dortch had an eight yard return. One notable name was missing in the form of Tom Kennedy.
When it came to the nitty gritty blocking, Dan Campbell was impressed with several receivers. As he explained, the room is in a full out battle to impress on a daily basis, and several players have caught his eye.
"That room right now is interesting. Tay Martin showed up blocking, made a one-on-one catch, separated (himself on) special teams. He forced a penalty, and that was just one play on special teams. He made more than that on the return and cover units. I thought (Tarik) Black showed up, made some plays. He's intriguing. We got Cedric (Wilson Jr.) back. He had that little hip flexor. We only got limited reps with him, but he's a crafty, savvy veteran. Just knows how to play. He gets it. Smart dude. Can play all the positions. Goes out there and makes plays for us. He'll mix it up and block. He's played special teams before. We know Tom Kennedy. (He's) reliable. Steady. That room right now is an all out (battle). It's pretty exciting."
While Kennedy was mentioned by Campbell, it wasn't for anything specific. In addition to his special teams work, Black hauled in a touchdown pass and Wilson had a beautiful 23 yard reception on his only target of the game. It's safe to say all made a bigger impact than Kennedy, who only had a five yard completion on the night.
With all of these names in mind, Kennedy has an uphill battle to make the Lions this season. Not only did he not get looks in the passing game, but he was an afterthought on special teams. That could paint a tough picture of where he stands pushing closer to September.
Campbell still prefers his wide receivers to have plenty of optionality
Even though Kennedy didn't get love in Week 1 of the preseason, the Lions might use him again as time goes by. He's been a dependable player in the system for years, which offers him a familiarity of the offense that many other names just don't provide.
Additionally, Kennedy is one of the players on the Lions who offers versatility. He can play not only on special teams, but offers the Lions a veteran receiver that has made critical catches in games when pressed into duty. He also has the ability to throw passes if need be. Campbell clearly likes his receivers to have plenty of skills in the bank.
READ MORE: Lions 53-man roster predictions after first preseason game
"I've mentioned this in the receiver room. When you've got different skill sets in the receiver room, it really opens up what you're able to do, you know, because of what they're able to do."
It will be interesting to see if Kennedy is able to hang on to a role thanks to these factors, or if his time is finally up in Detroit. Kennedy has been with the Lions since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2019, which pre-dates the Campbell era by two years. He is pushing 30, however, making him one of the older players on the roster.
Now, Kennedy is facing a stiff competition from young talent that offer intriguing skillsets. It makes for a fascinating choice for Campbell and Brad Holmes before roster cuts. The decision will revolve around whether to go with something new or something comfortable.
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