What former coaches said about new Detroit Lions players

The Detroit Lions filled needs in the first week to 10 days of free agency. While their most notable addition was arguably via trade (Carlton Davis), the have signed some notable outside free agents too (Kevin Zeitler, Amik Robertson, DJ Reader, Marcus Davenport).

The league is gathering in Orlando for league meetings over the next few days, including most of the head coaches taking part in what's always an interesting photo.

Monday morning brought media availability for head coaches, including Antonio Pierce, John Harbaugh and Zac Taylor. As the head coaches of the Raiders, Ravens and Bengals respectively, they of course have familiarity with three of the aforementioned Lions' free agent signings-Robertson, Reader and Zeitler.

With a huge caveat that a former coach is never going to slam a former player who is now gone, here's what each of those coaches said about their respective departed player (h/t to Justin Rogers of the Detroit News).

What former coaches said about new Detroit Lions

Robertson was clear about what he thinks he brings to the Lions' secondary, and Pierce reinforced that when asked.

"A ball hawk," Pierce said. "A guy that's very—you know, you hate to say it—but he's kind of got a little man's complex. He plays bigger than what he is. You look at him, 5-8, 5-9 guy, but extremely talented, gifted competitor. Sad to see him go, but very proud of him."

Here's what Taylor said about Reader.

"He was a great leader for us, tremendous player, everything that we wanted our players to be about and our leaders to be about," Taylor said. "(He) was consistent with his effort and performance, and has made some critical plays for us in some critical games that we’ll always remember. Wish D.J. the best of luck and I know (new Lions defensive line coach) Terrell Williams will take good care of him."

"He’s just a champion," Taylor said. "He’s won championships at Clemson. Like I said, (he) was part of some big moments here at Cincinnati for us. I know that’s why Detroit’s bringing him in."

And finally, here's Harbaugh on Zeitler, who we already know is a perfect fit for the Lions.

"Kevin Zeitler, all ball, every single day," Harbaugh said. "Ball and baking. I mean, his wife bakes the best stuff. Everybody in Detroit and that building is going to get the best baked goods they've ever had in their life. But Kevin's an excellent football player. He's got a lot left in the tank. Very tough, physical guy. In a lot of ways, he was the personality of our team. He kind of established us that way."

Not that it hasn't seemed clear sign their signings, but the Lions found ideal all-around fits in Robertson, Reader and Zeitler. Their former head coaches have confirmed it.