The Detroit Lions' pass rush needs help, if only from a consistency and finishing with sacks perspective. Signed to the practice squad a little over two weeks ago, Bruce Irvin said how how much he thinks he can help as he has worked his way into football shape.
"A lot," Irvin told Tim Twentyman of the team website when asked this week how much he thinks he can help Detroit's pass rush. "I don't want to (make any predictions) but I think I can contribute quite a bit."
Right after he signed Irvin acknowledged the difference between working as he did to be in good shape and being in football shape. He did not do OTAs or training camp anywhere, so he was starting at square one there. The Lions never rush the acclimation process, but Irvin is glad they didn't.
"I'm just fortunate they let me get myself together," Irvin said. "They didn't rush me. They put me on a program and followed it and it's been good for me. I feel like I've done everything to be in the best possible shape and position I can. I'm excited."
Bruce Irvin seems sure to make Lions' debut on Sunday
Earlier this week head coach Dan Campbell pointed to the possibility Irvin will be elevated from the practice squad in time for Sunday's game against the Saints. On Friday, via Pride of Detroit, he talked about Irvin again.
"Every week we feel like he’s getting his speed up, getting his football legs under him and I think there’s a chance,” Campbell said. “I think there’s a chance. Brad and I will make that final decision today, but we’ve been working him in a little bit, so if we need him he’ll be prepared. But we’ll know a lot more after today.”
Irvin has become a journeyman over the last four seasons, as an NFL player advancing through their 30's might. But he was fairly productive in another stint with the Seahawks last year, with 3.5 sacks and 12 pressures over 11 regular season games (400 snaps).
Based on Campbell's words the decision to elevate Irvin to the active roster will be made on Friday, even if it doesn't have to made official until Saturday. It would be a surprise if the veteran edge rusher is not in uniform on Sunday.