DE Ziggy Ansah:
PFF's DET-MIN Grades: poised Bridgewater, pass rush lead the Vikings (Lions Top Performers - Ziggy Ansah +4.5) (9-20-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/09/21/det-min-gradespoised-bridgewater-pass-rush-lead-the-vikings/
RECAP: Lions at Vikings (Odd stat of game: Both teams had a turnover negated by a penalty. Ziggy Ansah recovered a Peterson fumble in the Lions end zone, but fellow defensive end Jason Jones was called for offsides. The Vikings scored one play later on a Zach Line touchdown run.) (9-20-14): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-at-Vikings/cbc3876d-601a-4747-a395-585865e21744
Free Press Lions' report card: Offensive line failed QB, RBs (Defensive line - C-: Adrian Peterson finished with 134 yards rushing on 29 carries, so it wasn't a banner day for the Lions' front seven. Haloti Ngata beat center Joe Berger to break up a quick pass on the opening series, but Jermelle Cudjo and Gabe Wright got shoved around on Peterson's 25-yard run later in the series. Give the line credit for stopping Peterson on a third-and-goal rush from the 1, and Ziggy Ansah (seven tackles, three for loss, and a sack) had a nice day. But Teddy Bridgewater proved too elusive for the Lions' pass rush.) (9-20-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/20/detroit-lions-report-card-minnesota-vikings/72542456/
Detroit News Lions grades: Offensive line failed to protect Stafford (Defensive line - DE Ziggy Ansah probably was the best player with seven tackles, three for loss and a sack. That sack was the only hit the Lions had on QB Teddy Bridgewater, though, and considering many of RB Adrian Peterson’s 134 rushing yards came when the line lost containment on the edge, it was an overall poor performance. Grade: C-) (9-20-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/09/20/lions-grades-offensive-line-neglected-protect-stafford/72538176/
Detroit Lions notes: Calvin Johnson gets involved; Ebron too (Ziggy Ansah had seven tackles and a sack.) (9-20-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150920/detroit-lions-notes-calvin-johnson-gets-involved-ebron-too
Vikings' line will have its hands full again with Lions' aggressive defense (The last time the Detroit Lions were in Minnesota, they ate Teddy Bridgewater for lunch. The Vikings quarterback was sacked eight times and intercepted three times in a 17-3 loss. It was a low point for Minnesota's offense, and particularly its offensive line, which vows to be better in Sunday's home opener at TCF Bank Stadium. Gone, however, is Lions defensive tackle Nadamukong Suh, who was credited with two sacks that day. His replacement, Haloti Ngata, is questionable for Sunday's game because of a shoulder injury but practiced, in limited capacity, on Thursday and Friday. "Well, Ngata is a big, athletic guy very similar to Suh," Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said. "I would hate to say that one's more powerful than the other because they both are, and they're both very, very good athletes." Suh has moved on to the Miami Dolphins, but returning for the Lions is end Ezekial Ansah, who had 2.5 sacks and three tackles for loss last October against the Vikings. "Pretty similar. They're still the same front," right guard Mike Harris said. "It's all the same linebackers; they're just missing Suh and (tackle Nick) Fairly. But they're a physical team." The Chargers ran 30 times for 95 yards and two touchdowns in a 33-28 victory over the Lions in San Diego last week. The Lions sacked quarterback Phillip Rivers twice for minus-16 yards. "I think they take pride in stopping the run, so as an offensive line it's going to be a big challenge for us this week," Harris said. "We have to go out there and be physical and push these guys around.") (9-19-15): http://www.twincities.com/vikings/ci_28838752/vikings-line-will-have-its-hands-full-again
Getting to know the Lions with Lions beat writer Tim Twentyman (MC: A year ago, the Lions had 12 sacks and five interceptions in two wins over Teddy Bridgewater. Do they have the personnel to keep creating that much stress on a young quarterback? TT: Teryl Austin and that defense can still bring the heat; they’re just doing it in a few different ways than NFC North opponents might be used to. This was a team that relied on their front four to provide the pressure for a long time. That gave them the freedom to drop seven or being creative with their run fits. They’ve typically been one of the least blitzing defenses in the NFL the past few years. That appears to be changing this season. The Lions are utilizing their linebackers as pass rushers much more than they have in the past. Part of it is to combat the losses of Suh, Johnson, Nick Fairley and others, but it can also leave an offense guessing as to where the rush is coming from. DE Ziggy Ansah recorded three sacks against the Vikings last year. He’s still manning that right edge and he’s off to a good start in 2015 with one last week. The Lions have also added a speed element to their edge rush in the undersized DE Phillip Hunt. He also recorded a sack last week. They still have the personnel to make things rough on Bridgewater, they’ll just unleash them in a little different manner than the Vikings might be used to seeing.) (9-18-15): http://www.startribune.com/getting-to-know-the-lions-with-lions-beat-writer-tim-twentyman/328188921/
Vikings' Turner seeks better pass protection from his offensive line (Kalil gave up a league-worst 12 sacks while playing on a bad knee last season, with 2½ of those sacks coming against Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah.) (9-18-15): http://www.startribune.com/vikings-turner-seeks-better-pass-protection-from-his-offensive-line/328140411/
Opposing offenses are catching up to Lions (Things started well for the Lions defense as it forced a three-and-out on the opening series with defensive end Ziggy Ansah posting a tackle for loss and fellow end Phillip Hunt notching a third-down sack on the next snap. Ansah and Devin Taylor split a sack early in the second quarter, but after that, the Lions couldn't reach Philip Rivers as his quick strikes neutralized the defensive line.) (9-14-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/14/opposing-offenses-catching-lions/72287662/
Free Press Lions' report card: Poor marks for linebackers, receivers (Defensive line - B-: The Chargers worked mostly underneath routes and the quick passing game, but the Lions still didn't get enough pressure on Philip Rivers. Phillip Hunt had an early sack on Rivers, and Ziggy Ansah and Devin Taylor converged for a coverage sack later in the game. Tyrunn Walker and Jason Jones drew costly encroachment penalties, twice giving the Chargers first downs on third-and-short. Haloti Ngata had three tackles and did a good job occupying bodies in his first game as a Lion.) (9-13-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/detroit-lions-report-card/72236260/
Niyo: Chargers show Lions defense it indeed is a new season (And while the Lions’ front four got off to a rousing start, with Ziggy Ansah stuffing rookie running back Melvin Gordon for a loss on his first carry and Phillip Hunt sacking Rivers on his second dropback, it hardly reached the standard it set a year ago.) (9-13-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/john-niyo/2015/09/13/chargers-show-lions-defense-indeed-new-season/72236824/
First-quarter update: Lions 7, Chargers 3 (Detroit's defense kept the momentum going with a quick three-and-out. Defensive end Ezekiel Ansah welcomed rookie running back Melvin Gordon to the NFL with a blistering hit in the backfield and Phillip Hunt came up with a sack on third down to force the punt.)(9-13-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/first-quarter_update_lions_cha.html
Detroit Lions notes: Ameer Abdullah impressive; Glover Quin keeps string alive (Phillip Hunt and Ziggy Ansah each sacked Rivers for a combined loss of 16 yards. It was Hunt’s first NFL sack since 2012 when he played for the Eagles. Ansah had 15.5 sacks in the past two seasons.) (9-13-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150913/detroit-lions-notes-ameer-abdullah-impressive-glover-quin-keeps-string-alive
Pat Caputo - 3 thoughts during the first half Lions vs Chargers (Few problems so far for the Lions defensive line. Key will be sustaining the effort in the second on a hot California day. The Chargers did put together a nice drive. Ziggy Ansah on verge of becoming a great player.) (9-13-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150913/pat-caputo-3-thoughts-during-the-first-half-lions-vs-chargers
Caldwell has steadied Lions, Stafford (DE Ziggy Ansah: He finished with 7. 5 sacks last season, second on the team to All-Pro tackle Ndamukong Suh. Detroit drafted him fifth overall in 2013.) (9-12-15): http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2015/sep/12/ansah-megatron-jim-caldwell-lions/
7 teams that can win the Super Bowl (6. Detroit Lions - The Lions may have lost superstar DT Ndamukong Suh to the Miami Dolphins, but the remaining defensive components will be enough to bring Lions fans the glory. DE Ezekiel Ansah generated the second-best pass rushing productivity among 4-3 DEs last season, and the combination of CBs Rashean Mathis and Darius Slay provide Detroit with one of the better secondaries in the NFL. On offense, QB Matthew Stafford is coming off a down 2014 season in our grades, but ranked No. 7 among QBs in 2013 and should be able to bounce back with a full season of the WR duo of Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate, who both produced yards per route totals within the NFL’s top 15 (2.29 and 2.13, respectively). The difference-maker on offense will be the addition of RB Ameer Abdullah, who will give the Lions the breakaway threat they have sorely lacked in previous seasons.) (9-12-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/09/12/7-teams-that-can-win-the-super-bowl/
Samuelsen: 5 Lions Poised For Breakout Season (Ansah: Come on, you can’t ask a question like this and not expect me to choose the easiest answer. Ansah had eight sacks in his rookie year when he was plagued by a bad ankle. Last year, he emerged as the Lions best pass rusher not named Ndamukong Suh. Remember, this is just Ansah’s sixth year of playing organized football, so there is still room to grow. The downside of course is that with Suh gone, opposing offenses will focus a great deal more on stopping Ansah.) (9-11-15): http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2015/09/11/samuelsen-5-lions-poised-for-breakout-seasons/
Players Who Could Make Breakthroughs In 2015 (Offense - Eric Ebron, TE, Lions. Ebron caught only 25 passes as a rookie, but now is the time for him to step ahead of Brandon Pettigrew to become an added focal point in Detroit's passing game. Defense - Ziggy Ansah, DE, Lions. Ndamukong Suh is gone and someone must emerge in the Motor City. Look for Ansah, who is relatively new to the sport, to be that rising star in Detroit and to get double-digit sacks.) (9-10-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/news/players-could-breakthroughs-2015-071355237--nfl.html
Justin Rogers' 8 Detroit Lions predictions for 2015 (Defense will record 35 or fewer sacks - The biggest question mark on defense is figuring out where the pass rush is going to come from. Ezekiel Ansah should take another step forward, and might even top double-digit sacks, but there's not another reliable option on the roster heading into Week 1. Paging, Phillip Hunt and Devin Taylor.)
(9-8-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/justin_rogers_8_detroit_lions.html
O'hara's Monday Countdown: Season Predictions (Defensive player to watch - Ziggy Ansah: Ansah is a powerful speed rusher going into his third season. At 6-6 and 279 pounds, he's a force at right defensive end at the point of attack, rushing the passer and in pursuit. There was one caution sign when the Lions drafted Ansah fifth overall: limited football experience. Football instincts have not been a negative issue for Ansah. The question this season is how not having Ndamukong Suh in the middle will impact the rest of the defense, including Ansah. It is still a strong unit, especially the back seven, linebackers and secondary, but it will be difficult to match last season's rankings of No. 1 against the run and No. 2 overall. After posting sack totals of 8 and 7.5 sacks, it's reasonable that Ansah should be in double digits this season.) (9-7-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-MONDAY-COUNTDOWN-Season-predictions/4543d0dd-bb0e-4001-9741-f506f5dbb521
A look at the Detroit Lions' 53-man roster (Ezekiel Ansah: He’s going to be looked at as a leader of the line with Ndamukong Suh gone -- and also as a player who needs a big step up in production after 15.5 sacks his first two seasons.) (9-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18706/linebacker-is-a-deep-group-on-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster
All-Pro predictions: Who'll take home top honors? (No Lions on there, but Ansah is picked as a future All-Pro. Ansah and Trufant each were first-round selections in 2013 (Ansah at No. 5, Trufant at No. 22) and have become irreplaceable to their respective teams in short order. The Lions will have Haloti Ngata occupying space inside, but Ansah has a chance to emerge as the D-line headliner now that Suh and Nick Fairley have departed.) (9-7-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/09/06/all-pro-predictions-aaron-rodgers-richard-sherman
Ranking the 25 players most important to the Detroit Lions' 2015 success (No. 2 -- Ezekiel Ansah: Ansah's arrow has been steadily pointing up. He was one of the most efficient pass-rushing defensive ends in football last year, but he'll need to find a way to convert some of that pressure into more sacks this season to help compensate for the loss of Ndamukong Suh.) (9-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/25_most_important_players_to_d.html
Ansah, Van Noy back at practice; Levy still out (The Detroit Lions got three injured players back on the practice field today: defensive end Ziggy Ansah, linebacker Kyle Van Noy and tight end Eric Ebron. None of the three played in last week's exhibition win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Ebron was the only one who dressed for the game. Van Noy said Saturday that he was week-to-week with an injury that isn't related to the hip and hernia surgeries he underwent last year.) (8-31-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/detroit-lions-practice-injury-report/71477990/
Ebron, Van Noy, Ansah return to Lions practice (Van Noy’s return, meanwhile, was surprising as he and coach Jim Caldwell have described his injury as week to week. A second-round pick in 2014, Van Noy said Saturday he was feeling much better than the previous week and that he expected to avoid the injured reserve, designated for return list he started on last year, which would’ve held him out for eight games.) (8-31-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/ebron-van-noy-ansah-return-lions-practice/71480294/
Lions' Ziggy Ansah vows he'll be back by Week 1 (8-29-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/detroit-lions-injuries/71370338/
Injured Ansah aims for Lions' opener vs. Chargers (Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah said he's not frustrated by yet another offseason injury that's limiting his preparation for the regular season after sitting out Friday's 22-17 exhibition win in Jacksonville. Part of Ansah's lack of concern comes from his optimism that he'll return by the season opener against the San Diego Chargers on Sept. 13. "Hopefully, by then I should be fine," he said. Ansah was limping at times during last week's exhibition in Washington and had his right ankle wrapped when he left Lions headquarters last Friday. He missed practice all week leading up to the game against the Jaguars Friday night, but after the game, he declined to specify the injury plaguing him now. "He's got a little bit of a nagging injury, but I think he's going to be OK," coach Jim Caldwell said last Sunday.) (8-29-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injured-ezekiel-ansah-aims-for-lions-opener-vs-chargers/71382330/
9 potential starters sidelined for Lions, including 6 linemen; Calvin Johnson out too (Ezekiel Ansah (ankle), Haloti Ngata (hamstring), Caraun Reid (ankle) and Jason Jones (knee) -- one possible configuration for the starting defensive line -- will be out entirely Friday night in Jacksonville.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/10_potential_starters_sideline.html
Loss of Suh leaves Lions defense in tough spot (Expect Ansah to move around even more as a joker.) (8-28-15): http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-defense-ndamukong-suh-departure-haloti-ngata-nfl-matthew-stafford
32 NFL Teams, 32 Breakout Candidates (Detroit: Ziggy Ansah, DE - He may be Ziggy to the world, but he'll always be Ezekiel to me. Ansah proved to be a stout run defender in addition to his 7.5 sacks and nearly fifty hit/hurries. He only played about 60 percent of the total snaps last year, a figure sure to rise as Ansah takes center stage in the newly Suh-less defense.) (8-27-15): http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/145559014/nfl-2015-breakout-candidates-kelce-tannehill
Levy, Ansah miss Lions practice again (Defensive end Ziggy Ansah, linebacker Kyle Van Noy and cornerbacks Alex Carter and Chris Owens also missed today's practice for injury reasons. Ansah and Van Noy have not practiced all week, though both ran on the side with trainers during practice today.)
(8-26-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/26/detroit-lions-injury-report/32401685/
Lions sign Joe Madsen to bolster offensive line depth; DeAndre Levy out again (Defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (ankle), cornerback Chris Owens (unknown), cornerback Alex Carter (ankle), defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (hamstring) and tailback Joique Bell (knee/Achilles) also did not practice on Wednesday.) (8-26-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_sign_joe_madsen_to_bolst.html
10 takeaways from Austin and Lombardi (There’s been a lot of talk about the Lions blitzing more to maintain the amount of pressure they got from last year’s front four that featured Ndamukong Suh and Co. While blitzing will always be a part of Austin’s scheme, he made it very clear that he won’t put his defense in a situation where his players are out of position. He expects to be able to get pressure from Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones and Haloti Ngata. He made the point that sometimes when a coordinator gets too creative he puts guys out of position.) (8-25-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-takeaways-from-Austin--Lombardi/a97c2eb8-de1b-43c6-8ee3-7698a6173a39
Haloti Ngata gets in side work during Lions practice; DeAndre Levy out (Joining Van Noy and Levy as practice absentees were: Offensive tackle Michael Williams (unknown), defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (ankle), tailback Joique Bell (knee/Achilles), defensive tackle Caraun Reid, right guard Larry Warford, cornerback Chris Owens and Ngata.) (8-25-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/haloti_ngata_gets_in_side_work.html
Eric Ebron among 6 starters sidelined for Detroit Lions practice (Defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (ankle), linebacker Kyle Van Noy (undisclosed), tight end Eric Ebron (undisclosed) and linebacker Kevin Snyder (hand) also missed practice, while tailback Joique Bell (Achilles/knee) and defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (hamstring) remain on the physically unable to perform list. Ansah, Van Noy and Ebron were seen doing some light jogging during the 20 minutes available to the media.) (8-24-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/eric_ebron_among_6_starters_si.html
Notebook: Carter Playing Catch-up As He Returns To Practice (Caldwell said Ansah, Ebron and Abdul-Quddus are dealing with minor things.) (8-23-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Carter-playing-catch-up-as-he-returns-to-practice/b8fa75a3-1f41-47dc-81c2-16d74870e48a
Detroit practiced without a laundry list of players today (DE Ezekiel Ansah (ankle), TE Eric Ebron (undisclosed), DT Caraun Reid (ankle), RG Larry Warford (ankle), RB Joique Bell (knee/Achilles), DT Haloti Ngata (hamstring), LB Kyle Van Noy (unknown), WR Lance Moore (excused for birth of child), LB Kevin Snyder (hand), CB Crezdon Butler (unknown) and safety Isa Abdul-Quddus (unknown) all did not practice on Sunday. Coach Jim Caldwell said after practice that most of the injuries are minor, although he seemed to express some concern about Van Noy.) (8-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_lb_kyle_van_noy_4.html
Jim Caldwell quotes from Sunday's practice (On DE Ezekiel Ansah and if he is battling an injury: "Yeah. Yeah, he’s got a little bit of a nagging injury, but he’s, you know, I think he’s going to be ok." On if there is concern that Ansah’s injury could be long-term or lingering: "Anytime anybody has got any sort of injury, you know, you’re concerned about it, but our doctors, he’s in good hands and they’ll get him ready as quickly as he responds.") (8-23-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/23/9194775/jim-caldwell-quotes-sunday-practice
Lions' Warford, Reid dealing with high ankle sprains (Along with Warford and Reid, Ziggy Ansah, Kyle Van Noy, Kevin Snyder (hand) and Jordan Thompson (knee) also missed practice today for injury reasons. Caldwell wouldn't specify what's ailing Ansah and Van Noy, though both players finished Thursday's game and worked on the side at practice today.) (8-21-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/21/lions-injury-report/32149901/
Caldwell provides little on Warford, Reid ankle sprains (Defensive end Ziggy Ansah, who was limping at times during the game, sat out Friday's brief practice session. He was wearing a wrap on his right ankle as he exited the team facility.) (8-21-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/08/21/caldwell-provides-little-warford-reid-ankle-sprains/32150363/
Grades for Lions-Redskins (Ezekiel Ansah (+1.5) only played eight snaps, but he left his mark on the Washington offense registering a hit, a hurry and a defensive stop in spite of his limited playing time. He had one of the top 5 grades.) (8-21-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/08/21/grades-for-lions-redskins/
Notebook: Injuries Strike At Washington (Ziggy Ansah also limped off the field after the third series, but appeared to be fine and stayed on the sideline.) (8-20-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Injuries-strike-at-Washington/21fb4878-c1e3-4eef-a971-41b70f9774f5
O'HARA'S BURNING QUESTIONS: What stood out from first-team units? (Q. First unit -- Rate the defense: A. No complaints. It gave up a 10-yard run on Washington’s second play and slammed the door after that. Ziggy Ansah ended Washington’s first possession with a sack on third down.)(8-20-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-burning-questions/article-1/-OHARAS-BURNING-QUESTIONS-What-stood-out-from-first-team-units/0b576dc9-abed-421b-bd0f-d1f63b6881ff
Lions licking wounds after loss at Washington (Ziggy Ansah and Tyrunn Walker split the first sack on the opening drive, leading to a third-and-long Washington didn't convert.) (8-20-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/20/lions-licking-wounds-loss-washington/32094485/
Video - Can't-Miss Play: Gettin Ziggy with it (8-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000513769/Can-t-Miss-Play-Gettin-Ziggy-with-it
'Iron sharpens iron': Lions' Ansah, Reiff battle to be better (8-20-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/20/iron-sharpens-iron-lions-ezekiel-ansah-riley-reiff-battle-to-be-better/32064751/
Understanding the most exciting drill in Detroit Lions training camp (Ezekiel Ansah dug his hands into the ground daily during training camp for the Detroit Lions. He picked his angle and looked at Riley Reiff, standing feet from him, preparing to block. The goal was simple. Ansah wants to beat Reiff off the snap and make a move to reach and knock down a blue bag hanging on a hook resembling a quarterback in the pocket. Reiff's goal is to keep Ansah from reaching the bag and keeping the pocket intact for the bag. It is a violent few seconds where a big offensive line win is driving the defensive lineman into the ground or standing him up. For the defensive lineman, it is blowing by the offensive lineman to smash down the bag. The one-on-one competition between the offensive and defensive linemen during this pass rush technique drill was among the most exciting in training camp. It's something most of the public couldn't see because it was on a side field far from the stands. But it is a drill that will be invaluable when it comes to actual games and both protecting and rushing the passer. It also doubles as a point of both camaraderie and excitement for players and coaches in practice. And each day was highlighted by two matchups between Reiff and Ansah. "It's a fun matchup to watch," offensive line coach Jeremiah Washburn said. "I just enjoy it, man. That's when I take the coaching stuff off and I become a fan. That's two grown men now. I love watching those two." The byproduct is both Reiff and Ansah push each other in the drill -- something Washburn has seen before. Gosder Cherilus and Cliff Avril would go up against each other in the one-on-one drill daily when they were with the Lions. Washburn saw daily progress. Reiff and Ansah were fairly even, too. By unofficial calculations, Reiff had a 7-5-2 record against Ansah in the reps ESPN.com observed over the past three weeks -- and there were times it got so testy it looked like a skirmish might break out. It didn't, but facing each other in practice should help when games begin to count in September. It should be noted that wins could be difficult to deduce. Some were based on time calculations the Lions didn't want to disclose based on five-or-seven-step drops. "As a defensive end, you have to rush the passer," Ansah said. "That is how we can simulate it, with the one-on-one. That's how it is in the game." It is a more accurate depiction for defensive linemen than offensive linemen because the offensive line often schemes help, particularly on the interior. However, the drill forces both sides to refine technique and footwork constantly.) (8-19-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18356/understanding-the-most-exciting-drill-in-detroit-lions-training-camp
NOTEBOOK: Swanson won't take starting role for granted (The defensive linemen have a lot of competitive drills that are fun to watch during the individual portion of practice. One is the tag drill. Two lanes are formed used hitting pads. The players line up next to each other and have to fire off the ball and sprint into their lane. The player on the outside lane has to try and tag the player in the inside lane. The highlight matchup was Ziggy Ansah vs. Devin Taylor. Ansah won both times, eluding Taylor in the first rep and exploding off the ball in the outside lane to tag Taylor in the second.)(8-18-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Swanson-wont-take-starting-role-for-granted/fd95f7eb-5bea-4729-8de8-007ee434309d
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Nevin Lawson finishes strong camp with pick, pass breakup (When the team breaks up into position groups for individual drills, the defensive line is where it's at. Today the group played a head-to-head game where two lineman lined up side-by-side in lanes that curled inside and at the snap the player on the outside lane had to tag the player on the inside lane. The most interesting competition was between Devin Taylor and Ezekiel Ansah, both of which were won by the former first-rounder. Taylor has had a great camp, but he still doesn't match Ansah's burst off the ball. In one-on-one pass-rush drills, after losing both reps to Ezekiel Ansah the night before, Riley Reiff bounced back, locking down the athletic defensive end both times Tuesday. Ansah was struggling a bit with the turf and was forced to rush standing up, instead of his traditional four-point stance.) (8-18-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_32.html
Detroit Lions update: It’s Riley Reiff vs. Ziggy Ansah (Quietly, left tackle Riley Reiff has had a good training camp. “He’s performed well. He’s done a nice job. He’s done a nice job in his pass protection, nice job of run blocking and he’s playing like you would anticipate him to play. He doesn’t make many mistakes and he’s a tough competitor,’’ Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell said. Reiff will go at it again today (Tuesday) against defensive end Ziggy Ansah. The two match up in team drills and in one-on-ones when the offensive line goes against D-linemen. It’s developed into quite a competition. “I think any time you have two guys that are top performers, they challenge one another,’’ Caldwell said. “You know, the old saying in the Bible says, ‘Iron sharpens iron,’ and I think you get that from Ziggy and Riley as well. They look forward to working against one another, they challenge one another and I think obviously it makes them better.”)(8-18-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150818/detroit-lions-update-its-riley-reiff-vs-ziggy-ansah
Camp Spotlight: Tackle Riley Reiff (Reiff and third-year defensive end Ziggy Ansah have battled in individual and team drills most of camp. Ansah is a good test for Reiff to match up against day in and day out with his size, speed and athleticism. "I think anytime you have two guys that are top performers they challenge one another," head coach Jim Caldwell said before Monday night's practice at Edsel Ford High. "You know the old saying in the Bible, 'Iron sharpen iron.' I think you get that from Ziggy and from Riley as well. They look forward to working against one another, they challenge one another and I think, obviously, it makes them better." Ansah got the better of Reiff on an inside spin move in their first one-on-one rep in pass-rushing drills. Reiff held his ground during the second rep. He was able to anchor after a couple steps backward on Ansah's bull rush and keep him off the quarterback. The Lions worked on their two-point-conversion offense and defense during a team period and the first-team offense scored on four of their five attempts by my count. Reiff was able to put Ansah to the ground on the first rep. He stood up Caraun Reid on another rep. Reiff struggled a couple of times blocking at the second level in another team period. He missed a block on James Ihedigbo on a play run away from Reiff around the right tackle. Overall it was a nice practice for Reiff.) (8-17-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Camp-Spotlight-Tackle-Riley-Reiff/c1e8af0b-80ba-473a-aed2-caf52946608a
Second glance: Lions offense gets up to speed; Ansah has slow start (Slow start for Ansah - One of the players who didn't impress Thursday was defensive end Ezekiel Ansah. Although he played just seven snaps, Ansah — who played on the left and right sides — failed to make any noteworthy plays despite being blocked by one player on each snap. On three of the seven plays, Ansah created zero pressure against left tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson. Tight end Jeff Cumberland also blocked Ansah fairly easily on a quick pass play. Ansah's best play of the seven came when he sealed the edge against right tackle Breno Giacomini to make Darius Slay's tackle of running back Chris Ivory easier. But Ansah also missed a tackle on Ivory on a subsequent play after freeing himself from a block by left guard James Carpenter, who pulled to the right. He also had a free run at the quarterback on one play, but was a step behind DeAndre Levy and Darryl Tapp even before Ivory blocked him from the play. Ansah has had some highlights in Lions training camp, but has struggled overall in one-on-one matchups against left tackle Riley Reiff. With all the turnover on the defensive line, he'll have to start flashing more of his enormous potential as the season draws closer.) (8-17-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/17/second-glance-lions-offense-gets-up-to-speed-ansah-has-slow-start/31872199/
Camp observations: Lions unveil 2-point attack (Riley Reiff has won the majority of one-on-one plays against Ezekiel Ansah, but the defensive end beat Reiff, the left tackle, on their two reps Monday. On those 2-point tries, the group of defensive linemen on the first play was Darryl Tapp, Ezekiel Ansah, Caraun Reid, Tyrunn Walker, Phillip Hunt and Jermelle Cudjo.) (8-17-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/18/camp-observations-lions-unveil-2-point-attack/31894665/
Detroit Lions training camp notes: Gabe Wright impresses, Greg Salas gets first-team work (In one-on-one pass-rush drills, Ezekiel Ansah bested Riley Reiff twice, but appeared to come up with a slight limp after the first snap.) (8-17-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_31.html
Jim Caldwell's quotes from Monday (On the battles Reiff and DE Ezekiel Ansah have been having in camp: "I think any time you have two guys that are top performers, they challenge one another. You know, the old saying in the Bible says, ‘Iron sharpens iron,' and I think you get that from Ziggy and Riley as well. They look forward to working against one another, they challenge one another and I think obviously it makes them better.") (8-17-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/17/9167531/lions-training-camp-quotes-jim-caldwell-monday
Freep Observations from Lions camp: Don't sleep on DT Cudjo (Larry Webster has had a slow start to camp and right now appears to be the Lions' fifth defensive end, firmly behind Ziggy Ansah, Jones (who's still on the PUP list), Taylor and Darryl Tapp.) (8-15-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/lions-training-camp-standouts/31797691/
Detroit News Camp observations: Narrower posts help kickers hone in (Elsewhere in the one-on-ones, Riley Reiff continued to look good blocking Ansah, stopping him on their two snaps Tuesday. Moore fumbled two shotgun snaps in a row during one 11-on-11 drill, one of which would've likely led to an easy sack by Ansah.) (8-11-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/11/camp-observations-narrower-posts-help-kickers-hone/31494087/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Devin Taylor, Corey Robinson continue going opposite directions (In the one-on-one pass rush, Larry Warford remained undefeated in the drill, while Ezekiel Ansah got a clean sweep on left tackle Riley Reiff for the first time during camp.) (8-11-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_30.html
Video - Ansah on the defensive line (8-11-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Ansah-on-the-defensive-line/11fe26cf-9e70-4220-8813-314a8789b2c3
Freep Lions camp observations: Michael Burton can block (In one-on-one pass-rush, the Lions' first-team offensive line out-dueled their defensive line. Riley Reiff won the leverage game against Ziggy Ansah to win their first snap.) (8-10-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/10/detroit-lions-training-camp-notes/31418325/
Detroit News Camp observations: Ngata makes progress with hamstring (Cornelius Lucas had a pancake against defensive end Ezekiel Ansah, which is a good sign for the potential starting right tackle.)
(8-10-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/10/camp-observations-ngata-makes-progress-hamstring/31416513/
MLive Training Camp Notes (In the one-on-one pass-rush drill, the offensive line dominated, particularly the first unit. Cornelius Lucas had a nice showing against Darryl Tapp, the type of low-center-of-gravity rusher the young tackle struggles with at times. Lucas also put Ezekiel Ansah on his back during 9-on-9 work. Riley Reiff won both his reps against Ansah in the pas-rush drill.) (8-10-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_2015_training_ca_10.html
Jim Caldwell's quotes from Monday (On the battles between T Riley Reiff and DE Ezekiel Ansah in practice: "I look at every film, every play, every day, so I don't miss anything. I might be at that end of the field, but I get a chance to see it inside and it's been healthy, it's been good. Those two guys, those are the kind of battles that you look for. Two very good players trying to make each other better. Ziggy (Ansah) can give you a few problems, you know, he can turn speed to power very quickly. A big guy who runs that fast is quite a challenge. But Riley (Reiff) knows his position, he's played against a lot of different styles and techniques, so it's good work for both.")(8-10-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/11/9128321/lions-training-camp-quotes-jim-caldwell-monday
Reiff having very nice series here vs. Ansah. Stood up bull rush, moved him well off POA next snap (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/JeffRisdon/status/630040107458953216
Lucas putting in a nice rep and stuffing Ziggy on a bull rush (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/alex_reno/status/630039134166511617
Detroit News Camp observations: Williams pleased with progress at RT (Left tackle Riley Reiff and defensive end Ziggy Ansah have had some of the fiercest battles during the one-on-ones the past three days. On Friday, they split their two matchups with Ansah powering through Reiff on the first and Reiff stonewalling Ansah on the second.) (8-7-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/07/camp-observations-williams-pleased-progress-rt/31326693
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Defense dominates 2-minute drill work (Riley Reiff and Ezekiel Ansah again split their two reps today, with Ansah getting into the chest of the left tackle and almost carrying him into the tackling dummy on the first rep. This battle has been extremely physical all camp and I wouldn't be surprised if there's some post-whistle shoving between the two as camp progresses.) (8-7-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_28.html
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Ryan Broyles gets physical, defense focuses on turnovers (After Riley Reiff dominated the matchup Wednesday night, the left tackle split against Ezekiel Ansah today. On the first rep, Reiff drove Ansah wide on an outside rush, knocking the defensive end over a pad on the ground. On the second rep, Reiff managed to stay in front of the defender, but allowed Ansah to push him far too deep into the pocket.) (8-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_27.html
NOTEBOOK: Levy happy with new extension (For the first time in camp the offensive and defensive lines took part in pass rushing drills with the pads on. Overall I’d give the win to the offensive line.
Riley Reiff beat Ziggy Ansah twice.)(8-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Levy-happy-with-new-extension/205e8e1c-d1c9-4d22-91d3-f1c20d1f0014
Camp Spotlight: Defensive end Ziggy Ansah (The first padded practice was an opportunity to get a good look at both the offensive and defensive lines. It was also the first time the defensive line and offensive line went against each other in pass-rushing drills. Ansah squared off against
(8-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Camp-Spotlight-Defensive-end-Ziggy-Ansah/daa7fd62-a7cf-4f0d-b160-ae41fb4ddc22
Detroit News Camp observations: For Lions, pads ratchet up intensity (Ezekiel Ansah had no problem containing the edge against Cornelius Lucas on a run to the right.) (8-5-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/06/camp-observations-lions-pads-ratchet-intensity/31201307/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Matt Prater does his best Kickalicious impression (With a padded practice, we also got to see some one-on-one pass-rush drills, a personal favorite. Left tackle Riley Reiff was the star, twice stuffing ultra-athletic defensive end Ezekiel Ansah. You could really see a nasty streak from the offensive lineman, who showed great technique shutting down the defensive end's bull rush attempt.) (8-5-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_26.html
ESPN Camp Notes (Riley Reiff had a good day: The offensive and defensive lines can often be judged better with pads on and in the individual 7-on-7 lineman session, left tackle Riley Reiff was dominant during his reps. He went up against defensive end Ezekiel Ansah twice, winning both of those battles. The second one was particularly noticeable because he stonewalled the Lions' best returning pass-rusher. With Reiff being one of two holdover starters from last season's offensive line, that he is progressing well this early could bode well for Matthew Stafford's blind side.) (8-5-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18118/first-padded-detroit-lions-practice-yields-a-strong-day-for-riley-reiff
Video - Ziggy Ansah Highlights (8-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Ziggy-Ansah-Highlights/e961bae6-e018-4eb4-b6ed-a27899824536
DL doing alignment drills. Ziggy looks the most explosive by far (8-5-15): https://twitter.com/alex_reno/status/629079117653258240
Quotes from Martin Mayhew's Tuesday presser (On expectations for DE Ezekiel Ansah: "I think he will continue to grow. He had a big jump from year one to year two. Hopefully it's the same type of jump this year. Ziggy (Ansah) is another really talented athlete. I'm expecting good production from him this year and also, more leadership. He has to take on more of a leadership role. I expect big things from him.")(8-4-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/5/9097637/lions-training-camp-quotes-martin-mayhew
Oakland Press Notes (Ansah was a DE starter) (8-3-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150803/detroit-lions-notes-ngata-alex-carter-out-ebrons-good-day
Philip Hunt:
Getting to know the Lions with Lions beat writer Tim Twentyman (MC: A year ago, the Lions had 12 sacks and five interceptions in two wins over Teddy Bridgewater. Do they have the personnel to keep creating that much stress on a young quarterback? TT: Teryl Austin and that defense can still bring the heat; they’re just doing it in a few different ways than NFC North opponents might be used to. This was a team that relied on their front four to provide the pressure for a long time. That gave them the freedom to drop seven or being creative with their run fits. They’ve typically been one of the least blitzing defenses in the NFL the past few years. That appears to be changing this season. The Lions are utilizing their linebackers as pass rushers much more than they have in the past. Part of it is to combat the losses of Suh, Johnson, Nick Fairley and others, but it can also leave an offense guessing as to where the rush is coming from. DE Ziggy Ansah recorded three sacks against the Vikings last year. He’s still manning that right edge and he’s off to a good start in 2015 with one last week. The Lions have also added a speed element to their edge rush in the undersized DE Phillip Hunt. He also recorded a sack last week. They still have the personnel to make things rough on Bridgewater, they’ll just unleash them in a little different manner than the Vikings might be used to seeing.) (9-18-15): http://www.startribune.com/getting-to-know-the-lions-with-lions-beat-writer-tim-twentyman/328188921/
NOTEBOOK: Abdullah, Hunt make most of first plays (First touches couldn’t have produced much better results for two Lions who came from vastly different backgrounds to make their presence felt in the Lions’ season-opening loss at San Diego. Rookie running back Ameer Abdullah turned his first regular-season carry into a 24-yard touchdown run on the Lions’ first possession. It was the kind of play the Lions envisioned Abdullah making when they drafted him in the second round. On the other side of the ball, defensive end Phillip Hunt sacked quarterback Philip Rivers on the Chargers’ first possession. It was Hunt’s first play as a Lion, and something the Lions envisioned him making when they kept him on the 53-player roster in the final cut. Hunt was a prolific pass-rusher in college at the University of Houston, and with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League. He had three sacks in 23 games with the Eagles in 2011 and 2012. Those two plays were among the Lions’ highlights Sunday. Unfortunately, there weren’t enough others as the Lions squandered a 21-3 lead in a 33-28 loss. Among the other noteworthy developments Sunday was a hit that injured quarterback Matthew Stafford’s right elbow, the question of why the Lions didn’t target Calvin Johnson more than four times in the passing game, and rookie left guard Laken Tomlinson’s review of his performance. Some of the highlights and low spots: In the Hunt: Phillip Hunt made the roster because of his quickness off the ball and ability to get to the quarterback as an edge-rusher. Three plays after Abdullah’s TD run, Hunt dropped Rivers for a seven-yard loss on a rush from the left end. “It meant a great deal, to get in on my first play,” Hunt said. “It was a great opportunity. I did my job. I had to work for it, no doubt. I got off the ball well, got a good bull rush in and got my sack.”) (9-14-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Abdullah-Hunt-make-most-of-first-plays/d1bb3229-d944-42c0-a807-a03fe3fcc7a2
Opposing offenses are catching up to Lions (Things started well for the Lions defense as it forced a three-and-out on the opening series with defensive end Ziggy Ansah posting a tackle for loss and fellow end Phillip Hunt notching a third-down sack on the next snap. Ansah and Devin Taylor split a sack early in the second quarter, but after that, the Lions couldn't reach Philip Rivers as his quick strikes neutralized the defensive line.) (9-14-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/14/opposing-offenses-catching-lions/72287662/
PFF's DET-SD grades: Rough start for Lions’ Stafford-Johnson connection (Top Performers: DE Phillip Hunt (+1.7).) (9-14-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/09/14/det-sd-grades-rough-start-for-lions-stafford-johnson-connection/
Niyo: Chargers show Lions defense it indeed is a new season (And while the Lions’ front four got off to a rousing start, with Ziggy Ansah stuffing rookie running back Melvin Gordon for a loss on his first carry and Phillip Hunt sacking Rivers on his second dropback, it hardly reached the standard it set a year ago.) (9-13-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/john-niyo/2015/09/13/chargers-show-lions-defense-indeed-new-season/72236824/
Detroit Lions notes: Ameer Abdullah impressive; Glover Quin keeps string alive (Phillip Hunt and Ziggy Ansah each sacked Rivers for a combined loss of 16 yards. It was Hunt’s first NFL sack since 2012 when he played for the Eagles. Ansah had 15.5 sacks in the past two seasons.) (9-13-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150913/detroit-lions-notes-ameer-abdullah-impressive-glover-quin-keeps-string-alive
Free Press Lions' report card: Poor marks for linebackers, receivers (Defensive line - B-: The Chargers worked mostly underneath routes and the quick passing game, but the Lions still didn't get enough pressure on Philip Rivers. Phillip Hunt had an early sack on Rivers, and Ziggy Ansah and Devin Taylor converged for a coverage sack later in the game. Tyrunn Walker and Jason Jones drew costly encroachment penalties, twice giving the Chargers first downs on third-and-short. Haloti Ngata had three tackles and did a good job occupying bodies in his first game as a Lion.) (9-13-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/detroit-lions-report-card/72236260/
Chargers, with 30 straight points, shred Lions defense (The defense had a strong start, too, forcing a three-and-out by the Chargers when defensive end Phillip Hunt sacked Rivers on third down.) (9-13-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/chargers-straight-points-shred-lions-defense/72227852/
First-quarter update: Lions 7, Chargers 3 (Detroit's defense kept the momentum going with a quick three-and-out. Defensive end Ezekiel Ansah welcomed rookie running back Melvin Gordon to the NFL with a blistering hit in the backfield and Phillip Hunt came up with a sack on third down to force the punt.)(9-13-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/first-quarter_update_lions_cha.html
KEY QUESTIONS: How did injuries affect roster decisions? (Which player(s) surprised him with their inclusion on the final 53? George Johnson was signed as a "camp body" last offseason and ended up making the team out of training camp and finishing the regular season with six sacks. He turned that performance into a lucrative contract with the Tampa Bay Bucs this offseason. There could be a couple players in this year's squad who are on similar paths, according to Mayhew. "To see what a guy like Jermelle Cudjo did for himself is pretty exciting and fun to watch," Mayhew said. "Phillip Hunt is another guy like that. You know, Taylor Boggs had a phenomenal camp for us. Brandon Copeland, I mean those guys just came in and came out of nowhere, you know, and really all performed at a very high level from the time that they stepped in here, so I'm proud of those guys and proud of our pro scouting department for finding those guys.") (9-7-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/KEY-QUESTIONS-How-did-injuries-affect-roster-decisions/ed7c38d0-57f9-485e-994f-27b41fcdc1de
A look at the Detroit Lions' 53-man roster (Phillip Hunt: Like Boggs, he forced his way onto the roster with a consistently strong camp -- to the point where he might be Detroit’s second-best edge-rusher.) (9-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18706/linebacker-is-a-deep-group-on-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster
Where Lions stand at each position after final cuts (Hunt forced his way onto the roster in a fashion similar to George Johnson last year, and his speed should help him contribute on special teams. The Lions parted with 2014 fourth-round pick Larry Webster, who struggled in camp. Tackle Jermelle Cudjo was among the final cuts, which could mean the Lions expect Reid to be ready for Week 1.) (9-6-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/06/where-lions-stand-at-each-position-after-final-cuts/71813142/
9 thoughts on the Detroit Lions' 53-man roster (The NFL is never truly a meritocracy, but this was close, give or take a Cudjo. Detroit liked George Winn, but kept an undrafted rookie (Zach Zenner) instead. It would have liked more time to develop a fourth-round pick in Larry Webster, but went with a CFL guy (Phillip Hunt) instead. It was about to cut a second-round pick (Ryan Broyles) who eventually asked for his release, and did cut their return man (Jeremy Ross), to carry a second-year receiver (TJ Jones) who closed the preseason with a bang. In every one of those cases, Detroit parted with an established guy to carry someone who was producing more.) (9-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/9_thoughts_on_the_detroit_lion.html
Twentyman: Lions Cut Their Roster To 53 (Hunt took advantage of opportunities given to him all spring and summer and earned this initial roster spot. In the end, Hunt did more to secure a roster spot than Webster, who the Lions hope will clear waivers and be part of their practice squad. Cudjo did enough to make the roster, too, but the Lions typically only keep four defensive tackles. His release could be good news that Reid will be ready to go Week 1 after suffering a high ankle sprain in the second preseason game. Wootton, who was injured Thursday night vs. Buffalo, has been placed on the injured reserve list.) (9-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/TWENTYMAN-Lions-cut-their-roster-to-53/acd5e7d6-9c7c-4c9f-92c2-fc99ec894784
DE Phillip Hunt won't let size be an excuse for whether he sticks (9-4-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/04/lions-de-phillip-hunt-wont-let-size-excuse/71704754/
Lions 17, Bills 10: Who helped, hurt themselves in win? (Helped - DE Phillip Hunt: The Lions have eight defensive linemen locked into roster spots, and room to keep one or two more. Hunt, the former CFL sack leader, rushed the passer well all preseason and on Thursday he finally got home for his first sack. He got called for a special-teams penalty as an ineligible man downfield on a punt, but adds more in that department than Jermelle Cudjo, who had a strong preseason at defensive tackle and a sack of his own Thursday.) (9-4-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/04/lions-53-man-roster/71683320/
Detroit Lions — Five standouts from win over Bills (Defensive end Phillip Hunt is also in the mix at the position. “He gets after the passer. If he is not right there breathing down his neck, he’s putting his hands on him in one way or another,’’ Caldwell said. “But gets a good jump off the ball, an aggressive guy and he did a nice job on special teams. He got a lot of work today. You could see there towards the end he was close to cramping up, but he was impressive throughout camp.’’ Like the others, Hunt has worked hard for this opportunity. “I worked hard in the offseason, OTAs, training camp for these very moments so a lot of blood, sweat and tears have gone into this opportunity and it would mean a lot to me,’’ Hunt said.) (9-4-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150904/detroit-lions-x2014-five-standouts-from-win-over-bills
FOUR DOWNS: Job interviews conclude (Second Down: Blue Collar - Detroit is a blue-collar town and Lions fans have always latched on to hard-nosed players with a bring-their-lunch-pail-to-work mentality. Defensive linemen Jermelle Cudjo and Phillip Hunt certainly fit that bill. Both were signed this offseason as long shots to make the roster, but they’ve steadily earned their way into the conversation for inclusion in the final 53. Their rise is reminiscent of George Johnson's last year. Whether or not they can parlay it into a roster spot and a productive season like Johnson did in 2014, is unclear. “I worked hard all offseason,” Hunt said. “OTAs and training camp for this very moment. A lot of blood sweat and tears going into this opportunity.” Hunt and Cudjo have made the most of their opportunities. They both recorded a sack in Thursday’s win over Buffalo, and have shown up as playmakers each and every time they strapped it up in the preseason. “I think in both cases, those guys have done a tremendous job,” Caldwell said of both Cudjo and Hunt. “I think Cudjo has done a very nice job. He is a blue collar guy that comes to work every day, works extremely hard, loves the dirty work and I think every game he shows up, he does something well. “Phillip Hunt would be another guy that I think is the same. He gets after the passer. If he is not right there breathing down his neck, he’s putting his hands on him in one way or another, but gets a good jump off the ball, an aggressive guy and he did a nice job on special teams.” A numbers game played out over the next 48 hours in Allen Park will ultimately decide both players’ fates, but they both did enough to make this team, whether the numbers fall in their favor or not – we’ll see.) (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/FOUR-DOWNS-Job-interviews-conclude/3029c7cc-c467-403a-9220-4747573c27d7
O'HARA'S BURNING QUESTIONS: Who made good impressions? (Q. Defense – highs and lows: What were they? A. One high point was keeping the Bills out of the end zone. They scored their touchdown on a fumble return. Two linemen competing for roster spots – tackle Jermelle Cudjo and edge-rusher Phillip Hunt – got sacks. Also, linebacker Josh Bynes had a sack and forced fumble late in the third quarter on a weird play that resulted in Bills’ fourth-string quarterback Matt Simms throwing the ball backward. It ended up as a 38-yard loss on the sack and fumble, and a recovery by the Lions that led to the drive to the go-ahead score. On the negative side, second-year cornerback Nevin Lawson had a tough night with penalties for pass interference and some coverage problems. He also had a penalty in the last game for a late hit on the quarterback.) (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-burning-questions/article-1/OHARAS-BURNING-QUESTIONS-Who-made-good-impressions/0d9528db-b157-4ad4-8637-789aa4e1ee50
RECAP: Lions vs. Bills (Defensive linemen Jermelle Cudjo and Phillip Hunt made the most of extended playing time as they each recorded sacks in the game. Hunt and second-year player Larry Webster are competing for the last spot(s) at defensive end. Hunt has clearly outplayed Webster through camp and the preseason, but the Lions like Webster’s upside and he’s a former fourth-round pick.) (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-vs-Bills-/d50028af-eaa0-40ef-9cfe-e012f00f393d
Zach Zenner scores another game-wining TD, Lions finish preseason 3-1 (Highlights - Two defensive linemen who might have helped their cases were Phillip Hunt and Jermelle Cudjo. Both have played themselves onto the bubble with strong camps, both got starting nods against Buffalo with so many regulars out, and both made early impacts. Cudjo broke up a pass, gained significant and constant penetration, and was rewarded with a sack. Hunt added a sack as well.) (9-3-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/zach_zenner_scores_another_gam.html
Detroit Lions top Buffalo in preseason finale (Defensive end Phillip Hunt and defensive tackle Jermelle Cudjo each had a sack.) (9-3-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150903/detroit-lions-top-buffalo-in-preseason-finale
Video - Postgame 1 on 1 with Phillip Hunt (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Postgame-1-on-1-with-Phillip-Hunt/ed0bd197-c305-46df-9e51-fa67c461e8b3
Video - Hunt on the fourth preseason game (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Hunt-on-the-fourth-preseason-game/526d62a0-0941-4b7a-adcb-0aff02214f5f
5 things to watch: Lions vs. Bills (Can Jermelle Cudjo or Phillip Hunt put themselves into the conversation for inclusion on the final roster along the defensive line?) (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/5-things-to-watch-Lions-vs-Bills/63a935d4-0751-48e0-bb20-eab779ca580c
10 Detroit Lions to watch as team hosts Buffalo to close out the preseason (Defensive end Phillip Hunt: Few bubble talents have more momentum than Hunt coming into this one. He's generating pressure on the pass-rush at an impressive clip through three games and would be a tough cut given the Lions aren't getting much edge pressure from anywhere else on the roster outside Ezekiel Ansah.) (9-3-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/10_detroit_lions_to_watch_buff.html
Several jobs still up for grabs in Lions-Bills game (Defensive line: Hunt, at defensive end, and Cudjo, at defensive tackle, have played the best of the bubble guys, and injuries up front could force the Lions to go 10 deep at the position. If Caraun Reid can't play Week 1, for instance, the Lions might need to keep extra help at tackle. Larry Webster is a wild card, too, as a 2014 draft pick with untapped potential. "Hopefully, I caught somebody's eye, if it's not here," Cudjo said. "I want it to be here, but if it's not here, then hopefully, I caught somebody's eye over these last three weeks to give me a shot.') (9-2-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/02/detroit-lions-position-battles/71569438/
Lions vs. Bills: 5 things to watch (Cutthroat: The Lions must trim their roster from 75 to 53 by 4 p.m. Saturday, so for a good chunk of players on the field Thursday, this will be the last chance to impress coaches. Among the players legitimately on the roster bubble are Phillip Hunt, Brandon Copeland, Jermelle Cudjo and George Winn (Southfield).) (9-2-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/02/detroit-lions-buffalo-bills/71573850/
Ten Lions on the bubble (Phillip Hunt, DE: Hunt has been consistent — three tackles, two quarterback hits. His 6-foot-1, 258-pound frame makes him stand out among the Lions defensive ends, but his combination of speed and power gives him a great chance to make the team.) (9-2-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/02/lions-bubble/71620742
‘Opportunity’ is magic word tonight for on-the-bubble Lions (Defensive end Phillip Hunt, a bubble player, said his plan is to have fun tonight, focus on his job and pray. “I never feel like you’ve done enough because that’s when you get comfortable, and when you get comfortable, you don’t play at your best,” he said.) (9-2-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/02/opportunity-magic-word-lions/71621372/
Detroit Lions — Five things to watch in preseason finale against Bills (Defensive end is another competitive spot. A year ago the Lions kept five defensive ends and four defensive tackles. If that holds again (and it certainly could change), the top three defensive ends will likely be Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones and Darryl Tapp. Phillip Hunt, Devin Taylor, Larry Webster and Corey Wootton could be in competition for the final two spots. All four should see significant playing time against the Bills.) (9-2-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150902/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-watch-in-preseason-finale-against-bills
Phillip Hunt looking to be Detroit Lions' 2015 version of George Johnson (9-2-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/phillip_hunt_leaning_on_speed.html
O'HARA: Hunt could tip scales in his favor Thursday (9-1-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Hunt-could-tip-scales-in-his-favor-Thursday/2fe34829-a333-4a8e-8446-dbf38d1ae237
Video - Hunt on the final preseason game (9-1-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Hunt-on-the-final-preseason-game/5f060c77-7b33-4a71-b663-09c3e1424cf4
PFF Grades (DE Phillip Hunt isn’t a former first-round pick, but he sure beat up on one. He turned 23 rushes into three hits and one hurry, including one hard to watch (if you’re a Jaguars fan) bull rush that saw him spring Jags LT Luke Joeckel like a coil.) (8-31-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/08/31/grades-for-jaguars-lions/
Jim Caldwell quotes from Saturday (On if DE Phillip Hunt coming to the Lions off a season ending injury was due to him being a good fit: "Yeah, I think watching him play yesterday and since he’s been here obviously, he’s a guy that’s been on a mission. Very, very close to having numerous big plays for us last night, but he’s right there on the edge and he’s working at it and he’s got ability. He’s one of those guys that kind of plays a dual role. A bit of obviously, a very fine pass rusher, but then also he’s pretty good in terms of special teams. So, that’s the area that he’s trying to fight and battle and find a spot, but it’s a tough race there to.") (8-30-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9227913/jim-caldwell-quotes-from-saturday
Mailbag: What will Zach Zenner's role be if he makes Detroit Lions? (Q. Any chance Larry Webster gets cut to leave room for someone like Cudjo? A. Yeah, there's a chance to make room for either Jermelle Cudjo or Phillip Hunt. In my latest roster projection, I actually had the Lions cutting Webster and then slipping him on the practice squad if he slips through waivers. He's a talented player who has made strides, but he's still nowhere near refined enough to be counted on in regular season games. There's also a chance the Lions roll with Webster instead of Hunt or Cudjo as well. It is one of those discussions that should be interesting over the next week within the organization.) (8-30-15) : http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18582/mailbag-what-will-zach-zenners-role-be-if-he-makes-detroit-lions
Lions-Jaguars PFF Grades: The Stafford-Tate Connection (PFF's Grades - Philip Hunt: +1.5, Phillip Hunt was my dark-horse candidate to make the team this year and he's making a very strong case for himself. Through three games he's tallied five QB hits and three QB hurries for eight total pressures* (most on the team). To put that in perspective, Larry Webster has been on the field for five more pass rushing snaps and has six less total pressures on the preseason.) (8-30-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9224573/lions-jaguars-pff-grades-matthew-stafford-golden-tate
Injured Ansah aims for Lions' opener vs. Chargers (The Lions generated little pressure on Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles in the first half. The pass rushing highlights for players likely to make the 53-man roster were quarterback hits for Darryl Tapp and Phillip Hunt as Bortles suffered no sacks and helped Jacksonville convert its first seven third downs. Hunt's hit came after he bull-rushed left tackle Luke Joeckel.) (8-29-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injured-ezekiel-ansah-aims-for-lions-opener-vs-chargers/71382330/
Detroit Lions — Five players on or near the bubble (Phillip Hunt, a defensive end who was out of football in 2014, has played his way up the depth chart. “I think watching him play (Friday) and since he’s been here obviously, he’s a guy that’s been on a mission,’’ Caldwell said. “Very, very close to having numerous big plays for us last night, but he’s right there on the edge and he’s working at it and he’s got ability. He’s one of those guys that kind of plays a dual role.’’ He plays special teams too. Hunt said the Lions are a good fit for him. “It fits my abilities very well with my quick twitch off the ball and being able to attack my opponents very quickly,’’ Hunt said. Ziggy Ansah and Jason Jones are expected to start but there could be room for Hunt in the rotation.) 8-29-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150829/detroit-lions-x2014-five-players-on-or-near-the-bubble
Video - Hunt on his performance (8-29-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Hunt-on-his-performance/35a06d3b-a618-4f99-960b-eb12d33fd7c4
RECAP: Lions at Jaguars (The Lions’ defense finally rose up and made a play when defensive end Phillip Hunt, who was good rushing the passer all night, pressured Bortles into a quick throw to Allen Robinson that was broken up by linebacker Stephen Tulloch.) (8-28-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-at-Jaguars/aedb2f47-d659-418e-a6ff-a41cf8e3c3c9
Offense shines, defense struggles as Lions win (On defense, end Phillip Hunt was among the players who made an early appearance. Linebacker Travis Lewis started in place of a healthy Tahir Whitehead, perhaps a chance for Lewis to prepare himself to be Whitehead’s backup as Kyle Van Noy deals with an injury.) (8-28-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/offense-shines-defense-struggles-lions-win/71358214/
Lions Zach Zenner drags defenders into end zone for game-winning TD against Jags (Highlights - While Zenner looks like he's played his way onto the offense, the same goes for DE Phillip Hunt on defense. The Lions signed him out of the CFL, and have raved behind closed doors about his potential as a pass-rusher. He got a start against Jacksonville, with Ezekiel Ansah and Jason Jones out, and proved to be one of Detroit's only effective pass-rushers. That includes fighting through one hold to get to Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles, and later knocking Luke Joeckel to the ground with a bull rush. Lowlights - The defensive line didn't apply nearly enough pressure on Bortles, who had all day to find his guys, and found them more often than not. He completed 20 of 29 passes for 245 yards, one touchdown and no picks. Hunt and Tyrunn Walker were the only guys up front who were doing much of anything.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_zach_zenner_drags_defend.html
Detroit Lions stock report: Matthew Stafford ready for regular season, Zach Zenner strengthens case (Stock up -- Defensive end Phillip Hunt: Hunt recorded two tackles and a quarterback hit while consistently generating pocket pressure rushing against former No. 2 overall draft pick Luke Joeckel. The veteran defensive end even put the young left tackle on his backside with a bull rush. Hunt got an extended look with the first-team defense and was one of the few bright spots from the group as he knocks on the door for a roster spot.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_stock_report.html
10 Detroit Lions to watch: Starters, rookies and roster battles, oh my (Defensive end Phillip Hunt: Hunt was an animal against Washington, playing a key role in the decimation of quarterback Robert Griffin III. A former CFL standout with some NFL experience, Hunt has played his way on to the bubble and needs another impressive outing to strengthen his case.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_to_watch_jackson.html
Detroit Lions — Five things learned in win over Jaguars (Defensive end Phillip Hunt can bull-rush with the best of them and he did on Friday night. He was in on sub packages with the starters in the first half. Hunt also could be earning his way onto the roster. It helps that he is aces on special teams. Hunt hasn’t played in the NFL since 2012, but you would never know it. Sometimes a player just has to find a team that’s a good fit.) (8-28-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150828/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-learned-in-win-over-jaguars
Stock Report (Highs - Phillip Hunt: The former CFL sack artist has come on fairly well in the past couple of weeks and received a lot of first-team work against the Jaguars. He made the most of it as well, pressuring Blake Bortles multiple times, beating former first round pick Luke Joeckel, while picking up two tackles.) (8-28-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18558/matthew-stafford-zach-zenner-stand-out-for-detroit-lions
5 things to watch in Lions vs. Jaguars (Nine lives: The Lions' entire projected starting defensive line -- Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones, Haloti Ngata and Caraun Reid -- is out Friday, and that means more time for three players fighting to be the team's ninth lineman. Jermelle Cudjo has played well at tackle, and Phillip Hunt is the best pass rusher of the bunch. Larry Webster has had a disappointing preseason.) (8-27-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/32473459/
Lions DE Hunt looking to cement spot (8-27-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jaguars-hunt/71292090/
Five key position battles for the Lions (Numbers game: While many players jockey for position on the depth chart, some must try to convince the coaches to keep them over players at other spots. Interior offensive lineman Taylor Boggs, defensive tackle Jermelle Cudjo and defensive end Phillip Hunt have been among the most impressive backups this summer, but they’re on the bubble because of the number of players already committed at their position. The Lions already have four centers and guards, defensive ends and defensive tackles effectively locked into the 53-man roster, so players like linebacker Brandon Copeland, Boggs, Cudjo and Hunt have to convince the personnel department to keep an extra backup by continuing to play well. Fullback Emil Igwenagu, who plays the same position as fifth-round pick Michael Burton, and the loser of the Zenner-Winn battle face similar predicaments.) (8-27-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/27/five-key-position-battles-lions/32477079/
13 players on the Detroit Lions' roster bubble (DE Phillip Hunt: Everyone should look out for Zach Zenner on offense, and they should look out for Hunt on defense. Those are two guys this staff has liked for a few weeks now, and are trending in the right direction heading into those last days before cuts. Detroit is still looking for ways to fortify its pass rush, with Ndamukong Suh in Miami, and coaches are giving Hunt a long look for the DE spot behind Ezekiel Ansah, Jason Jones, Devin Taylor and Darryl Tapp. He's had a great camp, and helped his case with a great speed rush against Washington that was punctuated with a huge hit on Robert Griffin III. A strong finish to the preseason, and it’s possible Hunt bounces Larry Webster for that last defensive end job.) (8-27-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/12_players_on_detroit_lions_ro.html
Detroit Lions — Five to watch in preseason game at Jaguars (Phillip Hunt has been buried on the depth chart at defensive end, but he’s been noticed by the coaches. The 29-year-old has 22 games of NFL experience in 2011 and 2012 with the Philadelphia Eagles. He missed the 2013 season after tearing an ACL in camp and was cut by the Colts in training camp a year ago. He’s had a good camp and could earn a roster spot, possibly over Larry Webster.) (8-27-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150827/detroit-lions-x2014-five-to-watch-in-preseason-game-at-jaguars
Teryl Austin, Joe Lombardi quotes from Monday (On DE Phillip Hunt: "Phillip’s been a pleasant surprise, really tough, really explosive off the ball. He’s not the biggest guy in the world, but he brings an edge of toughness to us. He’s a lot like George (Johnson) was last year. George just was going all the time, tough, good motor and Phillip has a lot of those same traits.") (8-25-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/25/9208627/lions-quotes-from-teryl-austin-and-joe-lombardi
O'HARA'S MONDAY COUNTDOWN: Roster watch (Phillip Hunt weighs only 258 pounds, but a quick first step like a flash of light makes up for lack of size and could land him on the roster as a situational rusher – much like George Johnson provided last year with six sacks as a backup.) (8-24-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-MONDAY-COUNTDOWN-Roster-watch/f00f0d89-7772-4948-881b-0fafd5e183d7
Lions roster: Bubble watch (Phillip Hunt, DE: Hunt is the change-of-pace speed rusher the Lions don’t have on their roster. His first step is one of the quickest on the team. He showed it off in Washington when he went right around left tackle Willie Smith to hit Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III right as he threw a pass in the first quarter. The Lions are deep at defensive end though, which doesn’t play to Hunt’s advantage. Larry Webster is currently the fifth defensive end and the Lions have a lot vested in his development. Do they keep six defensive ends? They might have to find a way to keep Hunt if he continues to play like he is.) (8-22-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Lions-roster-Bubble-watch/c6b6ad44-c101-4ebe-8895-22edd7eae28f
Hunt's Speed Could Help Him Make The Roster (8-21-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Hunts-speed-could-help-him-make-the-roster/a55c88cb-d0c0-41fe-add7-e44982a0d21f
Lions snap counts: Abdullah kept on short tether (On defense, the coaches obviously wanted to see a lot of Larry Webster as the second-year defensive end ranked second in snaps for a second week in a row. A fourth-round pick last year, Webster had 40 snaps Thursday — Phillip Hunt's 37 made him the only other defensive lineman with more than 28 — but Webster didn't record a single statistic.) (8-21-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/21/snap-counts-abdullah-kept-short-tether/32125633/
Jim Caldwell's quotes from Friday (On DE Phillip Hunt: "Little different, just in terms of body type, you know, but he can get up the field as you can see. He creates just a little bit different sort of an attack to a tackle, a little bit lower to the ground, but a little bit more get-off I think than some, So, you know, you find all kinds of rushers like that in this league. I can name quite a few that are similar. (Elvis) Dumervil is one, just in size and dimensions is the same kind of guy, so still has power, still has girth and has the ability to really turn the corner." On how Hunt played against Washington: "He did some good things. He played pretty well.")(8-21-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/21/9188493/lions-jim-caldwell-quotes-friday
Lions licking wounds after loss at Washington (Defensive end Phillip Hunt hit him on the third drive, another three-and-out.) (8-20-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/20/lions-licking-wounds-loss-washington/32094485/
Winners and losers from Lions' second preseason game (Winners: Phillip Hunt - With Larry Webster looking more and more like practice-squad material, there could be a roster spot up for grabs at defensive end. If Thursday night was any indication, Hunt may be one of the favorites for the final spot at defensive end, as he recorded two tackles and nearly strip-sacked Robert Griffin III. He looked really quick rushing off the edge.) (8-20-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/20/9179617/lions-redskins-preseason-winners-losers
Video - Griffin takes a tough hit from Hunt (8-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000513792/Griffin-takes-a-tough-hit-from-Hunt
Camp observations: Lions unveil 2-point attack (On those 2-point tries, the group of defensive linemen on the first play was Darryl Tapp, Ezekiel Ansah, Caraun Reid, Tyrunn Walker, Phillip Hunt and Jermelle Cudjo. Though Hunt hasn’t flashed as much as Cudjo in camp, their use in that group is a good sign for their current roster standing. Hunt also recovered a fumble in one team drill, but he appeared to be offsides to start the play.) (8-17-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/18/camp-observations-lions-unveil-2-point-attack/31894665/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Devin Taylor, Corey Robinson continue going opposite directions (The backup offensive tackles had mixed results in the the one on one pass rush with Taylor and Phillip Hunt dominating Corey Robinson.) (8-11-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_30.html
Corey Robinson getting chewed up by Devin Taylor for the third straight time in one-on-ones. Phil Hunt got him too (8-11-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/631184844270268417
MLive Training Camp Notes (Corey Robinson continues to struggle, losing reps to Devin Taylor and Larry Webster, before splitting against Phillip Hunt.) (8-10-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_2015_training_ca_10.html
Rough series for Corny Lucas at RT. Couldn't handle Phillip Hunt (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/JeffRisdon/status/630042238467342336
Philip Hunt getting some first team run at defensive end (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/630034939174649856
Freep Camp observations: Defense ahead of offense (Rookie seventh-round pick Corey Robinson struggled mightily. Devin Taylor got him off-balance with a quick step inside and Phillip Hunt faked a spin move and ran around him to get to the bag.)(8-7-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/07/lions-training-camp-thoughts/31322327/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Ryan Broyles gets physical, defense focuses on turnovers (In the one-on-one pass rush drills, rookie Corey Robinson stood out. He absolutely stymied defensive end Larry Webster twice and Philip Hunt didn't do much better. All three reps came from the right side, which Robinson seems to be picking up quite well.) (8-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_27.html
DE Jason Jones:
O'HARA'S BURNING QUESTIONS: What's causing Lions' road woes? (Q. Most costly: Which fumble hurt the Lions the most? A. They all did, but the recovery that was called back hurt them the most by far. Adrian Peterson fumbled the ball away on a run to his right on first and goal at the one. The Lions recovered in the end zone. It looked like the Lions had caught a break – or made a break for themselves – to keep the Vikings’ lead at 17-10 -- but the recovery was nullified because of an offside penalty on Jason Jones. Instead of Lions ball at the 20 with the recovery, the Vikings kept possession with first and goal inside the one. The Vikings scored on the next play. With the touchdown and a missed extra point, the Vikings’ lead was 23-10. Q. Any excuse for Jones lining up offside? A. Nope It was clear on the replay that his hand was over the line. Good call by the refs. There’s no credit for being onside. Either you are, or it’s a penalty.) (9-20-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-burning-questions/article-1/OHARAS-BURNING-QUESTIONS-Whats-causing-Lions-road-woes/71e48076-9f2d-4bdb-acdf-6db3680bbadf
RECAP: Lions at Vikings (Odd stat of game: Both teams had a turnover negated by a penalty. Ziggy Ansah recovered a Peterson fumble in the Lions end zone, but fellow defensive end Jason Jones was called for offsides. The Vikings scored one play later on a Zach Line touchdown run.) (9-20-14): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-at-Vikings/cbc3876d-601a-4747-a395-585865e21744
MLive Detroit Lions report card: Minnesota Vikings dominate trench battles to get division win (DL: D, The defensive line failed to generate much pass-rush pressure on Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and had no answer as the first line of defense against running back Adrian Peterson, who rushed for 134 yards on 29 carries. Defensive end Jason Jones also made a critical mistake, lining up in the neutral zone on a goal line snap that Peterson would fumble. The penalty negated the turnover and Minnesota punched it into the end zone on the next play.) (9-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/detroit_lions_report_card_minn.html
Third-quarter update: Vikings 23, Lions 10 (Detroit also forced and recovered a fumble in the red zone, and nearly did it a second time to neutralize the damage, but defensive end Jason Jones lined up offside, negating an Adrian Peterson turnover in the end zone.) (9-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/third-quarter_update_vikings_l.html
Vikings, Peterson bounce back with home win over Lions (Peterson lost one later in the third quarter, too, but the end zone recovery was negated by Jason Jones lining up in the neutral zone.) (9-20-15): http://www.foxsports.com/north/story/minnesota-vikings-detroit-lions-adrian-peterson-bounces-back-with-home-win-092015
Seidel: 2nd-half flameout reminiscent of same old Lions (There was Jason Jones, forcing a fumble.) (9-14-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2015/09/14/detroit-lions-san-diego-chargers-jeff-seidel/72240082/
PFF's DET-SD grades: Rough start for Lions’ Stafford-Johnson connection (Top Performers: DE Jason Jones (+1.8).) (9-14-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/09/14/det-sd-grades-rough-start-for-lions-stafford-johnson-connection/
Free Press Lions' report card: Poor marks for linebackers, receivers (Defensive line - B-: The Chargers worked mostly underneath routes and the quick passing game, but the Lions still didn't get enough pressure on Philip Rivers. Phillip Hunt had an early sack on Rivers, and Ziggy Ansah and Devin Taylor converged for a coverage sack later in the game. Tyrunn Walker and Jason Jones drew costly encroachment penalties, twice giving the Chargers first downs on third-and-short. Haloti Ngata had three tackles and did a good job occupying bodies in his first game as a Lion.) (9-13-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/detroit-lions-report-card/72236260/
Chargers, with 30 straight points, shred Lions defense (The Chargers didn’t take advantage of that turnover as Lions defensive end Jason Jones forced a fumble by rookie running back Melvin Gordon, and Tulloch recovered.) (9-13-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/chargers-straight-points-shred-lions-defense/72227852/
Third-quarter update: Lions 21, Chargers 20 (The Lions quickly got the ball back after defensive end Jason Jones forced a fumble, but Stafford tossed a second pick under pressure, which the Chargers returned into the red zone.) (9-13-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/third-quarter_update_lions_cha.html
10 QUESTIONS WITH TWENTYMAN: Who will lead Lions in rushing yards? (Q. Who not named Ziggy is your favorite to lead the team in sacks for the year? A. Jason Jones is going to get five or six, but watch out for Haloti Ngata. He's my dark horse in the sack department. Ngata had a stretch of three seasons in a row from 2010-12 where he recorded five sacks playing nose tackle in a 3-4. He's now playing the three technique in an aggressive defense that will give him more of an opportunity to play in the backfield and rush the passer. I'm going to go out on a limb and say he finishes with at least six sacks, which would be a career high, if he stays healthy and plays in all 16 games.) (9-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-QUESTIONS-WITH-TWENTYMAN-Who-will-lead-Lions-in-rushing-yards/2159f189-a647-479a-9483-78201d96e08f
A look at the Detroit Lions' 53-man roster (Jason Jones: He hasn’t played this preseason, but the veteran is a strong rush defender and also is good in containing gaps.) (9-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18706/linebacker-is-a-deep-group-on-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster
Ranking the 25 players most important to the Detroit Lions' 2015 success (No. 20 -- Jason Jones
Jones doesn't get after the passer all that well, but he's reliable setting the edge and containing runs to the right side. His ability to slide inside on obvious passing downs and utilize his long arms to crowd the passing lanes is an added bonus.) (9-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/25_most_important_players_to_d.html
Chances ‘slim’ Lions’ Calvin Johnson plays vs. Bills (“There’s a possibility (Calvin will play), but the chances are slim,” coach Jim Caldwell said Monday. Caldwell also provided the same answer when asked if right tackle LaAdrian Waddle or defensive end Jason Jones would play, so it’d be a surprise to see either of them make their exhibition debut after being activated from the physically unable to perform list last Sunday.) (8-31-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/31/chances-slim-lions-calvin-johnson-plays-vs-bills/71486982/
Lions' Calvin Johnson likely won't play against Bills in preseason finale (8-31-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_calvin_johnson_likely_wo.html
9 potential starters sidelined for Lions, including 6 linemen; Calvin Johnson out too (Ezekiel Ansah (ankle), Haloti Ngata (hamstring), Caraun Reid (ankle) and Jason Jones (knee) -- one possible configuration for the starting defensive line -- will be out entirely Friday night in Jacksonville.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/10_potential_starters_sideline.html
Detroit Lions' Jason Jones, LaAdrian Waddle won't play against Jaguars (8-26-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_jason_jones_laad.html
Detroit Lions update: Matthew Stafford faster by split second (Right tackle LaAdrian Waddle and defensive end Jason Jones, who came off PUP (physically unable to perform) this week will not play at the Jaguars.) (8-26-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150826/detroit-lions-update-matthew-stafford-faster-by-split-second
10 takeaways from Austin and Lombardi (There’s been a lot of talk about the Lions blitzing more to maintain the amount of pressure they got from last year’s front four that featured Ndamukong Suh and Co. While blitzing will always be a part of Austin’s scheme, he made it very clear that he won’t put his defense in a situation where his players are out of position. He expects to be able to get pressure from Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones and Haloti Ngata. He made the point that sometimes when a coordinator gets too creative he puts guys out of position.) (8-25-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/10-takeaways-from-Austin--Lombardi/a97c2eb8-de1b-43c6-8ee3-7698a6173a39
Eric Ebron among 6 starters sidelined for Detroit Lions practice (Safety Isa Abdul-Quddus was back at practice, after sitting Sunday afternoon. Cornerback Alex Carter, right tackle LaAdrian Waddle and defensive end Jason Jones were also participating.) (8-24-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/eric_ebron_among_6_starters_si.html
Notebook: Carter Playing Catch-up As He Returns To Practice (Jason Jones is entering his eighth season in the league and knows the value of getting reps in training camp and the preseason. “Anybody would need some sort of reps, just to get out there and get the swing of things. Seeing my muscle memory back and footwork right. My aiming points as far as the defense,” Jones said of returning to practice for the first time Sunday since being placed on the PUP list before the start of camp. “I know the defense in and out, so I don’t have to learn that. It’s just about getting my feet wet.” Jones was joined for the first time on the practice field by right tackle LaAdrian Waddle, who also came off PUP on Sunday. Both players took part in individual drills but didn't do any team work.) (8-23-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Carter-playing-catch-up-as-he-returns-to-practice/b8fa75a3-1f41-47dc-81c2-16d74870e48a
Lions activate Waddle, Jones off PUP list (The Detroit Lions activated Waddle and defensive end Jason Jones off the physically-unable-to-perform list Sunday, and the hope is both starters will be back in the lineup for Week 1 of the regular season. Jones, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in June, was expected to be ready once real games begin. And while Jones has said he'd like to get some exhibition reps to knock the rust off, it seems unlikely Waddle will play in this week's exhibition game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. "I'm happy to see them back," Lions coach Jim Caldwell said of Waddle and Jones. "They both add a lot to our team. Two veteran guys that do a great job of leadership, but then also they're fine performers as well so it's always good to get them back on the field. It doesn't necessarily mean they're going to play this weekend or next weekend or anything of that nature, but they're making good progress, obviously." Jones said he appreciated the cheer he got from his line mates on his first rep back at practice, and defensive line coach Kris Kocurek said he's "been looking forward to (Jones' return) for a long time." "He's just one of the big pieces that we have," Kocurek said. "He's been the starter for us, he's smart, he understands the scheme, he understands the rush packages that we have. He's one of the leaders of the D-line group, he's one of the vets that the younger guys follow, so having him back's just awesome.") (8-23-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/23/lions-pup-list/32232165/
Detroit Lions practice notes: Pass-catchers struggle with drops during final session open to media (Jason Jones, LaAdrian Waddle and Alex Carter were all back in action, but none participated in team drills. That's par for the course with the Lions, who like to slowly work returning players back into a practice routine.) (8-23-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_practice_notes_p.html
Jim Caldwell quotes from Sunday's practice (On DE Jason Jones and T LaAdrian Waddle returning to practice: "Well, it’s good to have them back in action. They went through individual periods and got a little work done, so it’s great to see them back out there." On how he will determine if Waddle and Jones will play Friday: "You know, we’ll see. We really just confer with the doctors and see where they are. Obviously, coming back out and getting right into the thick of things, individual periods are a little bit different than pads on going to work, so we’ll have to see where they are. This is part of the progression." On how long it typically takes to return to team drills: "Everybody’s different." On the excitement of getting Jones and Waddle back on the field: "I’m happy to see them back. They both add a lot to our team. Two veteran guys that do a great job of leadership, but then also they’re fine performers as well. So it’s always good to get them back on the field. It doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re going to play this weekend or next weekend, anything of that nature. But they’re making good progress.")(8-23-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/23/9194775/jim-caldwell-quotes-sunday-practice
Video - Team reacts to return of Waddle and Jones (8-23-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Team-reacts-to-return-of-Waddle-and-Jones/47af3f64-5daa-4928-acb6-45b2659fa8a5
Video - Jones on returning to the field (8-23-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Jones-on-returning-to-the-field/ab08d6ac-9068-4c55-9371-2ca8ff1df4a8
Lions' Calvin Johnson, Lance Moore out against Washington; expect lots of Corey Fuller (The rest of Detroit's inactives, according to the team: tailback Joique Bell (knee/Achilles), right tackle LaAdrian Waddle (ACL), defensive end Jason Jones (knee), defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (hamstring) and cornerback Alex Carter (ankle).) (8-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_wrs_calvin_johnson_lance.html
NOTEBOOK: Swanson won't take starting role for granted (Joique Bell, Jason Jones, LaAdrian Waddle and Haloti Ngata have yet to return to practice from the PUP and NFI lists.)(8-18-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Swanson-wont-take-starting-role-for-granted/fd95f7eb-5bea-4729-8de8-007ee434309d
Detroit Lions notes: Golden Tate takes the high road over Harvin comments (Others who have not participated in training camp include Joique Bell, Haloti Ngata, Jason Jones and LaAdrian Waddle.) (8-17-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150817/detroit-lions-notes-golden-tate-takes-the-high-road-over-harvin-comments
Freep Observations from Lions camp: Don't sleep on DT Cudjo (Larry Webster has had a slow start to camp and right now appears to be the Lions' fifth defensive end, firmly behind Ziggy Ansah, Jones (who's still on the PUP list), Taylor and Darryl Tapp. Typically, the Lions keep just four defensive tackles -- Jason Jones and Devin Taylor can play inside on passing downs -- but Cudjo could force their hand.) (8-15-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/lions-training-camp-standouts/31797691/
Detroit News Camp Notes - Calvin Johnson is Lions’ top star in practice, too (Injured cornerback Alex Carter (ankle) started doing some work backpedaling, which is a good sign. Defensive end Jason Jones (knee) started doing some pass rush drills with a train after his typical running.) (8-15-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/calvin-johnson-lions-top-star-practice/31799653/
Rashean Mathis among 6 starters out for Lions' preseason opener; Calvin Johnson active (Tailback Joique Bell (knee/Achilles), right tackle LaAdrian Waddle (ACL), defensive end Jason Jones (knee), defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (hamstring) and cornerback Alex Carter (ankle) round out Detroit's inactives for the game. None of those players have practiced since the start of camp.) (8-14-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/rashean_mathis_among_6_players.html
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Devin Taylor, Corey Robinson continue going opposite directions (There's been noticeable progress with some of the injured players. Defensive end Jason Jones was getting in some light jogging.) (8-11-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_30.html
Notebook: Revamped Reid Playing Important Role On D-line (Jason Jones was working with trainers off to the side of practice for the first time in camp. That’s a good sign that his rehab from knee surgery is going well.) (8-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Revamped-Reid-playing-important-role-on-d-line/0bf61d8a-3c0c-4e79-a7ef-b2da7f96abc9
Detroit Lions DE Jason Jones getting closer to return (8-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18184/detroit-lions-de-jason-jones-getting-closer-to-return
Video - Jones on the defensive line (8-10-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Jones-on-the-defensive-line/9766cb56-0694-409a-a561-053c4262c501
Oakland Press Detroit Lions notes: Stafford, offense solid in mock game (Joique Bell, Jason Jones, LaAdrian Waddle and Alex Carter remained out of practice.)(8-8-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150808/detroit-lions-notes-stafford-offense-solid-in-mock-game
Joique Bell now cutting, appears to be nearing return; DeAndre Levy, Haloti Ngata still out (Haloti Ngata, Jason Jones and Alex Carter are sitting and not able to do much yet. They appear to be much further from a return.)(8-7-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/joique_bell_now_cutting_appear.html
Detroit Lions TE Joseph Fauria leaves camp after tweaking something; DeAndre Levy sits (Tailback Joique Bell (Achilles/knee), defensive end Jason Jones (knee), defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (hamstring) and cornerback Alex Carter (ankle) also did not practice.) (8-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_te_joseph_fauria_3.html
Still no Bell, Waddle, Jason Jones, Alex Carter at Lions practice (8-5-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/629066485865037824
NOTEBOOK: Team player Brandon Pettigrew embracing all roles (The same five players remained out Tuesday who sat out Monday. Joique Bell, LaAdrian Waddle and Jason Jones remain on the PUP list. Haloti Ngata is on the NFL list with a strained hamstring. Alex Carter rolled an ankle last week and remains out of practice.) (8-4-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Team-player-Brandon-Pettigrew-embracing-all-roles/275880f7-af33-437b-9d4b-58c6727765b6
Haloti Ngata and Jason Jones here, but not doing anything. Joique Bell, LaAdrian Waddle working out on side (8-3-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/628292058692907008
Lions DE Jones bullish on quick return from knee surgery (8-3-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/03/lions-de-jones-bullish-quick-return-knee-surgery/31087019/
Video - Jones on the injury (8-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Jones-on-the-injury/9ec11024-cf85-49cb-990d-49b96d7fa5c0
Jason Jones on PUP list (Jones, who participated in early portions of Detroit's offseason program, was absent all three days of mandatory minicamp in June. Coach Jim Caldwell acknowledged the defensive end had an injury that needed to be addressed. Others have reported Jones had a minor knee procedure.) (7-29-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/07/3_detroit_lions_starters_will.html
DE Darryl Tapp:
Video - Tapp on defending Peterson (9-16-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-defending-Peterson/e451b96d-7f40-43bd-8443-4341426f4ae3
Video - Tapp on defense getting ready for Minnesota (9-14-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-defense-getting-ready-for-Minnesota/3e26969e-7aea-464a-ad13-98665239e53a
Video - Tapp on Rivers (9-9-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-Rivers/5ef261b3-e9d4-4cd8-b9cd-4c05d797859f
Unlike teammate Darryl Tapp, Jermelle Cudjo re-signed in time for annual team photo (9-8-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/jermelle_cudjo_detroit_lions.html
A look at the Detroit Lions' 53-man roster (Darryl Tapp: The emotional leader of the defensive line, he is a veteran who gives the Lions some consistency.) (9-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18706/linebacker-is-a-deep-group-on-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster
Tapp grateful for NFL career: 'Kid's game for king's ransom' (The question-and-answer portion of the annual Lions kickoff luncheon Wednesday produced several funny comments from the players. Among the topic were Joique Bell's opinion on the team's best and worst dressed people and Eric Ebron's music tastes. But the question for Darryl Tapp provided some insight into how one of the Lions' defensive line leaders approaches the game. Asked how he stays so enthusiastic, the happy-go-lucky and boisterous Tapp shared an idea passed on to him by former star wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh when they were teammates on the Seattle Seahawks in 2009. "We're playing a kid's game for a king's ransom, so I take it wholeheartedly and I enjoy it," Tapp told the crowd of 920 people at the event hosted by the Detroit Economic Club at Ford Field.
After the event, Tapp noted that players make significantly more than most people around the world. The best reward for players, however, remains the Lombardi Trophy. "That would be unbelievable," Tapp said. "Hopefully, (it happens) this year." The 30-year-old Tapp was actually among the final cuts last year, but after Kyle Van Noy's injury freed a spot on the 53-man roster, the veteran spent all last season in Detroit. Now in his 10th NFL season, Tapp has become a valuable member of the team after an impressive offseason and with his leadership. Despite losing several of their top defensive linemen from 2014, Tapp expects the unit to remain productive in 2015. "Some of the faces may change, but the goal is still the same," he said. "We've got to go out there and set the tempo — offensive and defensive lines — up front and that'll set the pace for the game.") (9-2-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/02/lions-darryl-tapp-grateful-for-nfl-career-kids-game-for-kings-ransom/71600994/
NOTEBOOK: Bell gets work in with first team (As for defensive tackle Haloti Ngata, who returned to practice for the first time since earlier in the summer, he took part in individual drills and looked impressive doing it. “He’s a powerful man,” veteran defensive end Darryl Tapp said after Ngata put him on his butt in an individual drill when Ngata fired off the ball and into a tackling dummy Tapp was holding. “I think he was just making me look good,” Ngata said with a smile when asked about putting Tapp to the ground. “We’re both 10-year vets. He was making me look good.”) (8-31-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Bell-gets-work-in-with-first-team/a72adcdb-7fe0-4480-a3cf-a8e82a0d4a52
Video - Tapp on Ngata (8-31-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-Ngata/900640a7-c3dc-4a2d-9a47-96cf0ab2cf75
Picture perfect: Lions' Tapp motivated by last year's snub (8-30-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/30/detroit-lions-darryl-tapp/71421268/
Lions-Jaguars PFF Grades: The Stafford-Tate Connection (PFF's Grades - Darryl Tapp: -2.0) (8-30-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9224573/lions-jaguars-pff-grades-matthew-stafford-golden-tate
Injured Ansah aims for Lions' opener vs. Chargers (The Lions generated little pressure on Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles in the first half. The pass rushing highlights for players likely to make the 53-man roster were quarterback hits for Darryl Tapp and Phillip Hunt as Bortles suffered no sacks and helped Jacksonville convert its first seven third downs. Hunt's hit came after he bull-rushed left tackle Luke Joeckel.) (8-29-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/29/injured-ezekiel-ansah-aims-for-lions-opener-vs-chargers/71382330/
Detroit 22, Jacksonville 17: Lions' defense needs work (“This is our first real dress rehearsal for the season,” defensive end Darryl Tapp said. “It kind of gave us a look at what we can be if we get things squared away, and gave us a look of what we can be if we don’t do them things. We take it all in stride, never complain with a win but we’ve got some work to do starting tomorrow.” With mostly backups up front – Tapp, Devin Taylor, Tyrunn Walker and Gabe Wright started on the defensive line – the Lions didn’t record any sacks on Bortles and let the Jacksonville quarterback scramble for 38 yards on four carries.) (8-28-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/71354100/
Video - Tapp on the defense against the Jaguars (8-28-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-the-defense-against-the-Jaguars/977a9bb6-8eb4-40b8-a746-53afb8e02d7f
Video - Tapp on Ngata (8-25-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-Ngata/d753c445-1d36-4486-b552-3f8bba7287c0
Darryl Tapp, Kris Kocurek remember their first Oklahoma Drill experiences (8-19-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18351/darryl-tapp-kris-kocurek-remember-their-first-oklahoma-drill-experiences
Video - Tapp on stopping the run (8-18-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tapp-on-stopping-the-run/323feae1-e0e4-47b9-81d9-c5a35e910976
Camp notes: Could Igwenagu make Lions as TE? (In one-on-one pass rush drills, Darryl Tapp continued his strong camp with two good reps against Cornelius Lucas. He beat Lucas inside on the first snap of the drill, then left Lucas lunging at air with a well-executed spin move on his second.) (8-17-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/17/emil-igwenagu-/31892773/
Camp observations: Lions unveil 2-point attack (On those 2-point tries, the group of defensive linemen on the first play was Darryl Tapp, Ezekiel Ansah, Caraun Reid, Tyrunn Walker, Phillip Hunt and Jermelle Cudjo.) (8-17-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/18/camp-observations-lions-unveil-2-point-attack/31894665/
How a missed photo opportunity drives Lions DE Darryl Tapp (8-17-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18324/how-a-missed-photo-opportunity-drives-lions-de-darryl-tapp
Freep Observations from Lions camp: Don't sleep on DT Cudjo (Larry Webster has had a slow start to camp and right now appears to be the Lions' fifth defensive end, firmly behind Ziggy Ansah, Jones (who's still on the PUP list), Taylor and Darryl Tapp.) (8-15-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/lions-training-camp-standouts/31797691/
Ameer Abdullah makes dazzling debut in Detroit Lions win against Jets (Darryl Tapp was at defensive end. Devin Taylor was the first reserve defensive lineman off the bench.) (8-14-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/ameer_abdullah_makes_dazzling.html
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Devin Taylor, Corey Robinson continue going opposite directions (Defensive end Devin Taylor is getting some recognition for his strong camp, splitting first-team reps on the closed side of the formation with camp starter Darryl Tapp (in place of Jones). Taylor had a sack during team drills and dominated rookie Corey Robinson in one-on-one pass rush drills once again. The backup offensive tackles had mixed results in the the one on one pass rush with Williams stonewalling Tapp twice.) (8-11-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_30.html
ESPN Camp Notes (Michael Williams beat Darryl Tapp in both of his one-on-one pass rush reps.) (8-11-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18218/matthew-stafford-continuing-to-have-strong-camp-for-detroit-lions
Detroit News Camp observations: Ngata makes progress with hamstring (The quarterbacks did some work on running, and Matthew Stafford had a nice run during a red-zone play, beating defensive end Darryl Tapp to the edge. However, Stafford’s run from the 12 would’ve been short of the end zone as safety Glover Quin forced him out of bounds.)
(8-10-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/10/camp-observations-ngata-makes-progress-hamstring/31416513/
MLive Training Camp Notes (In the one-on-one pass-rush drill, the offensive line dominated, particularly the first unit. Cornelius Lucas had a nice showing against Darryl Tapp, the type of low-center-of-gravity rusher the young tackle struggles with at times. Lucas also put Ezekiel Ansah on his back during 9-on-9 work.) (8-10-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_2015_training_ca_10.html
ESPN Observations (Strong day for the offensive line: Overall it was a pretty good day for the offensive line. The line won almost all their first-team one-on-one pass rush drills against the defensive line, including six straight to start the drill. They also did a better job protecting the quarterbacks on a whole. Darryl Tapp -- again, he’s having a strong camp -- got a couple of pressures that might have led to sacks in a real game, but it was improvement from the entire unit.) (8-10-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18192/detroit-lions-lb-stephen-tulloch-looks-ready-to-hit-and-the-left-guard-battle-continues
Ebron working some magic on a tough swing pass and Tapp all over him. Catch drew loud oohs (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/JeffRisdon/status/630039637726203904
Tapp and Walker just destroyed the OL on goal line play. Tapp got into pads before guard was out of his stance (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/JeffRisdon/status/630035493380562945
Camp Spotlight: Defensive tackle Tyrunn Walker (Practice report: Walker had a nice day in both individual and team drills. In sled drills with his fellow defensive lineman, he had three reps against the smaller and speedier Darryl Tapp, but it was Walker who was quicker out of his stance and first to engage the sled two of the three reps.) (8-7-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Camp-Spotlight-Defensive-tackle-Tyrunn-Walker/23e5d056-cf47-49b4-b84d-306e56c45d1c
Freep Camp observations: Defense ahead of offense (The second-team offense was done in by drops, sacks and penalties on its two drives - Corey Fuller and Casey Pierce dropped passes, Taylor Boggs had a false start and Darryl Tapp beat Cornelius Lucas for a sack on the final play of its need-a-field-goal possession - and Kellen Moore threw two interceptions (and took a couple sacks) with the third-team offense. The Lions were in full pads for the second time in three days - they went shells on Thursday - so it was another chance to watch one-on-one pass-rush drills. Darryl Tapp continues to shine with the first-team defense. Tapp beat Michael Williams, who took first-team reps at right tackle, with a spin move inside on one snap and drove him back with a good initial push on the other, though he failed to get to the bag.)(8-7-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/07/lions-training-camp-thoughts/31322327/
Stephen Tulloch, Darryl Tapp help Lions' defense dominate offense and other Camp notes (Darryl Tapp had yet another good day: The veteran continues to package strong days together. He continues to line up with the first unit in place of the injured Jason Jones and once again made play after play. Tapp sacked Dan Orlovsky to end one of the two-minute sessions -- pushing the Lions to the edge of their field-goal range. Tapp also won both of his one-on-one drills against Williams on Friday, adding to his strong camp. If the Lions had an overall MVP of the first week, he would be in the conversation.) (8-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18147/defense-led-by-stephen-tulloch-and-darryl-tapp-dominates-detroit-lions-offense-friday
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Ryan Broyles gets physical, defense focuses on turnovers (As always, the head-to-head competition between the defensive linemen was spirited. One best-of-three matchup stood out as defensive end Darryl Tapp and rookie defensive tackle Gabe Wright were pitted against each other on the sled to see who had the faster reaction off the snap. Tapp won the first rep, taunting his young counterpart, but Wright made an impressive recovery to win the last two and take the victory. We've written about it a number of times, but Tapp's energy is contagious in that room and translates to the practice field for the entire group.) (8-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_27.html
ESPN Lions Camp notes (Darryl Tapp is having a good camp: Didn’t notice him quite as much Thursday as the past two days, but the veteran defensive end is making a lot of plays with Jason Jones still on the physically unable to perform list. Tapp got into the backfield a lot Wednesday night and always seems to be getting some sort of pressure. He was also quite good in the individual line drill Wednesday night. While he is still likely a rotational end, he is the vocal leader of the defensive line group and if he’s making plays, that can only help.) (8-6-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18134/detroit-lions-rb-ameer-abdullah-is-starting-to-stand-out
NOTEBOOK: Levy happy with new extension (Darryl Tapp, Larry Webster and Tyrunn Walker put in a few nice performances for the defense.)(8-5-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Levy-happy-with-new-extension/205e8e1c-d1c9-4d22-91d3-f1c20d1f0014
Free Press Camp observations: Lions hold first practice in pads (The two players who stood out the most in pass-rush drills were left tackle Riley Reiff and defensive end Darryl Tapp. Reiff won both of his matchups against Ziggy Ansah, stonewalling the Lions' best defensive end before he could even get to his second move. Tapp, who's taking first-team reps at left end while Jason Jones is on the physically unable to perform list, outdueled Cornelius Lucas in their one-on-one matchup. In their first snap to kick off the period, Tapp beat Lucas inside but slipped before he could get to the towel balled up in the backfield to signify the quarterback. On their second snap, Lucas nearly tackled Tapp as he tried to catch up to Tapp's speed rush on the outside. Tapp has had a good first few days of camp, but in all likelihood he's headed back to the second-team defense once Jones returns. Lucas, though, might end up starting the season at right tackle if LaAdrian Waddle isn't ready to return from his knee surgery. He's still a work in progress and could struggle against some of the quicker ends on the Lions' schedule.) (8-5-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/05/riley-reiff-detroit-lions/31197729/
Detroit News Camp observations: For Lions, pads ratchet up intensity (Tapp also had a sack on an 11-on-11 play.) (8-5-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/06/camp-observations-lions-pads-ratchet-intensity/31201307/
Freep Camp Notes - RB Abdullah impressive again, more (Darryl Tapp continues to take first-team reps at left end with Jason Jones on the physically unable to perform list. Tapp's a great guy to have in the locker room and should have a role as a rotational rusher this fall.) (8-4-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/04/detroit-lions-training-camp-observations/31140041/
Detroit News Camp observations: Backup QB battle ensues (Defensive end Darryl Tapp had an impressive day filling in for the injured Jason Jones on the left side. On several plays during team drills, Tapp was either in the backfield quickly or downfield near the ball, and that nose for the ball is something that could help him earn more reps this season.)
(8-4-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/04/camp-observations-backup-qb-battle-ensues/31140639/
MLive Camp Notes (The front four certainly got more pressure today than it did Monday. Tapp was particularly active on Tuesday, although he did get busted for jumping offsides once.) (8-4-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_25.html
Jim Caldwell's quotes from Day 2 of training camp (On DE Darryl Tapp and what he adds to the defensive line: "He had some pretty important things to do for us last year too. He stepped up in some key situations and played well. He's a very, very talented guy that has been around a long time. He's versatile, smart, energetic, day after day after day he's the same. You can certainly hear his rally cry in the building and out here on the field and he does a great job of setting the tone for our guys on the defensive front. He gives us what we need in the run game. He's a tough competitor there and then also obviously, he's slippery in terms of the pass game as well with his pass rush.") (8-4-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/5/9096669/lions-training-camp-quotes-jim-caldwell-day-2
Detroit News Camp Notes (Darryl Tapp was the first replacement for Jones at left end.) (8-3-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/2015/08/03/camp-observations-rookie-alex-carter-sidelined-ankle-issue/31082849/
DE Devin Taylor:
Lions get back Larry Warford, LaAdrian Waddle against Vikings; Devin Taylor a healthy scratch (Detroit's inactives against Minnesota are: Linebacker DeAndre Levy (hip), tight end Brandon Pettigrew (hamstring), defensive tackle Caraun Reid (ankle), receiver TJ Jones, guard Taylor Boggs, offensive tackle Corey Robinson and defensive end Devin Taylor. Taylor is a healthy scratch, perhaps a foreboding sign of the third-year end's place in the rotation. He was relatively quiet throughout last season, but had seemed to turn it around during a strong training camp. This is the first time he hasn't been active since Week 3 of his rookie season.) (9-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/lions_get_back_larry_warford_l.html
Free Press Lions' report card: Poor marks for linebackers, receivers (Defensive line - B-: The Chargers worked mostly underneath routes and the quick passing game, but the Lions still didn't get enough pressure on Philip Rivers. Phillip Hunt had an early sack on Rivers, and Ziggy Ansah and Devin Taylor converged for a coverage sack later in the game. Tyrunn Walker and Jason Jones drew costly encroachment penalties, twice giving the Chargers first downs on third-and-short. Haloti Ngata had three tackles and did a good job occupying bodies in his first game as a Lion.) (9-13-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/detroit-lions-report-card/72236260/
A look at the Detroit Lions' 53-man roster (Devin Taylor: The Lions used him as a deep rotational player the first two seasons, but his inside-outside flexibility could put him in position for a larger role in his third season.) (9-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18706/linebacker-is-a-deep-group-on-the-detroit-lions-53-man-roster
Ranking the 25 players most important to the Detroit Lions' 2015 success (No. 25 -- Devin Taylor: Maybe we'll look back in a few weeks and realize this should have been Phillip Hunt all along. The Lions need someone else other than Ezekiel Ansah to generate pressure from the edge. Taylor is a logical choice, based on his size and skill set. It's time for the third-year pro to start producing.) (9-6-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/09/25_most_important_players_to_d.html
Detroit Lions — Five things to watch in preseason finale against Bills (Defensive end is another competitive spot. A year ago the Lions kept five defensive ends and four defensive tackles. If that holds again (and it certainly could change), the top three defensive ends will likely be Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones and Darryl Tapp. Phillip Hunt, Devin Taylor, Larry Webster and Corey Wootton could be in competition for the final two spots. All four should see significant playing time against the Bills.) (9-2-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150902/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-watch-in-preseason-finale-against-bills
Detroit 22, Jacksonville 17: Lions' defense needs work (With mostly backups up front – Tapp, Devin Taylor, Tyrunn Walker and Gabe Wright started on the defensive line – the Lions didn’t record any sacks on Bortles and let the Jacksonville quarterback scramble for 38 yards on four carries.) (8-28-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/detroit-lions-jacksonville-jaguars/71354100/
10 Detroit Lions to watch: Starters, rookies and roster battles, oh my (Defensive end Devin Taylor: Ezekiel Ansah is banged up and not likely to play. The same with Jason Jones, who just returned to practice this week. That opens up an opportunity for Taylor to play significant snaps against Jacksonville's first-team offense. The Lions need someone to step up and provide pass-rush pressure from their front four and Taylor has been pegged by many as that guy.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_to_watch_jackson.html
O'hara's Final Thoughts: Slay wants Washington's receivers to test him (D Heat: Devin Taylor gave snaps to George Johnson last season after a promising rookie year. With Johnson leaving for Tampa Bay as a free agent, Taylor is making a statement again. Taylor had two sacks and combined with tackle Caraun Reid for the Lions’ only sack.) (8-20-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-FINAL-THOUGHTS-Slay-wants-Washingtons-receivers-to-test-him/50672a42-f51f-415a-873e-84024b16315a
Lions' DE Devin Taylor poised for breakthrough season (8-19-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/19/lions-de-devin-taylor-poised-breakthrough-season/31987333/
NOTEBOOK: Swanson won't take starting role for granted (The defensive linemen have a lot of competitive drills that are fun to watch during the individual portion of practice. One is the tag drill. Two lanes are formed used hitting pads. The players line up next to each other and have to fire off the ball and sprint into their lane. The player on the outside lane has to try and tag the player in the inside lane. The highlight matchup was Ziggy Ansah vs. Devin Taylor. Ansah won both times, eluding Taylor in the first rep and exploding off the ball in the outside lane to tag Taylor in the second.)(8-18-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Swanson-wont-take-starting-role-for-granted/fd95f7eb-5bea-4729-8de8-007ee434309d
Detroit News Camp observations: Lions' Fauria gets action with first team (Defensive end Devin Taylor is starting to have an unfair advantage in one-on-one pass rushing drills. With his speed and length, he was easily winning against Cornelius Lucas.) (8-18-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/18/camp-observations-lions-fauria-gets-action-with-first-team/31940203/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Nevin Lawson finishes strong camp with pick, pass breakup (When the team breaks up into position groups for individual drills, the defensive line is where it's at. Today the group played a head-to-head game where two lineman lined up side-by-side in lanes that curled inside and at the snap the player on the outside lane had to tag the player on the inside lane. The most interesting competition was between Devin Taylor and Ezekiel Ansah, both of which were won by the former first-rounder. Taylor has had a great camp, but he still doesn't match Ansah's burst off the ball. In one-on-one pass-rush drills, Devin Taylor got a bump up to work with Cornelius Lucas and dominated the current starter at right tackle both reps, getting the edge on the first snap and powering the tackle back with a bull rush on the second. Taylor has been significantly better than Larry Webster in camp.) (8-18-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_32.html
Jim Caldwell's quotes from Tuesday (On DE Devin Taylor: "Progressing, you know, getting better. He's getting more opportunities and I think he's taking advantage of that, so we'll see how he goes throughout the preseason, but he's coming along.") (8-18-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/18/9172895/lions-training-camp-quotes-jim-caldwell-tuesday
Camp notes: Could Igwenagu make Lions as TE? (Devin Taylor had a good rush period, too, driving Michael Williams back into the quarterback spot on their first rep and beating him off the edge on the second.) (8-17-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/17/emil-igwenagu-/31892773/
Freep Observations from Lions camp: Don't sleep on DT Cudjo (Larry Webster has had a slow start to camp and right now appears to be the Lions' fifth defensive end, firmly behind Ziggy Ansah, Jones (who's still on the PUP list), Taylor and Darryl Tapp. Typically, the Lions keep just four defensive tackles -- Jason Jones and Devin Taylor can play inside on passing downs -- but Cudjo could force their hand.) (8-15-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/lions-training-camp-standouts/31797691/
Detroit News Camp Notes - Calvin Johnson is Lions’ top star in practice, too (Defensive end Devin Taylor continued to shine, pushing Larry Warford off his spot in one team drill, then easily blowing by tackle Xavier Proctor in 1-on-1s.) (8-15-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/calvin-johnson-lions-top-star-practice/31799653/
O'hara's Burning Questions: What Did The Offense's Opening Drive Mean? (Four Downs: So Far So Good For Lions Run Game (Q. Ready Reid: Reid bulked up physically in the offseason with the expectation of taking on a bigger role after playing sparingly at defensive tackle as a rookie. What did his performance show? A. It showed that the work made a difference. He’s bigger and stronger, and that showed on two plays. He got penetration on a running play that forced the back to change direction. The defense smothered the play. And later in the first half Reid led the way on a sack of rookie quarterback Bryce Petty that forced a punt. Devin Taylor also was in on that sack. No one is going to forget Ndamukong Suh because of what anybody did in the first exhibition game, but they ought to remember that Reid’s stock is rising.) (8-14-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-burning-questions/article-1/OHARAS-BURNING-QUESTIONS-What-did-the-offenses-opening-drive-mean/1a45ac04-e7c4-41a1-883a-44c04c2db262
Detroit 23, N.Y. Jets 3: Plenty to like from Lions' exhibition debut (Most of the Lions' first-team defense played just one series against a Jets team that was without its top quarterback Geno Smith, who suffered a broken jaw in a locker room fight earlier this week. The Jets, behind Ryan Fitzpatrick, drove 41 yards in 10 plays on their opening drive after a long kick return and converted a fourth-and-1 run on the possession. Darius Slay had four tackles on the drive, and Devin Taylor and Caraun Reid shared a sack in the first half for the Lions.) (8-14-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/13/detroit-lions-new-york-jets-exhibition/31682513/
Lions ground Jets in exhibition opener (Reid was a standout on defense. In the first half, he had a tackle and split a sack with defensive end Devin Taylor on a play in which Reid easily bullrushed through left guard Dakota Dozier.) (8-14-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/13/jets-lions-exhibition-season/31660483/
Detroit Lions stock report: Kellen Moore fails to take advantage of opportunity (Stock up -- Defensive tackle Caraun Reid: The second-year defensive tackle out of Princeton lived up to the praise he's received this offseason, combining with defensive end Devin Taylor on a third-down sack early in the second quarter. Reid also showed his burst off the line, getting into the backfield and altering the path of Jets running back Bilal Powell before he was dropped for a one-yard gain by Tyrunn Walker.) (8-14-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_stock_report_ame.html
Ameer Abdullah makes dazzling debut in Detroit Lions win against Jets (The most encouraging sign from the defense occurred up front. The Lions are trying to figure out how to replace Ndamukong Suh, Nick Fairley, C.J. Mosley and George Johnson this offseason -- four of their top six players at the position. Caraun Reid and Devin Taylor both looked like they might be ready for bigger roles in that grouping, turning in good showings in camp, then wrecking New York up front -- including combining for a second-quarter sack that forced a punt. Reid blew up the play on the inside, simply overpowering New York guard Dakota Dozier. Darryl Tapp was at defensive end. Devin Taylor was the first reserve defensive lineman off the bench.) (8-14-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/ameer_abdullah_makes_dazzling.html
Jim Caldwell comments on Lions' win over Jets (On the defensive tackles' performance: "I think there were some good things and I think we still got a lot of things to work on and that's another area that's very, very difficult to say exactly what was going on until you get a chance to look at that film . There were some guys that made some plays. Caraun (Reid) was obviously the sack and Devin (Taylor) made some plays here and there and Jermelle (Cudjo) made a nice play on a third down to stop things like that. Pretty good effort out of those guys.") (8-14-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/14/9145911/lions-jets-preseason-quotes-jim-caldwell
Winners and losers from Lions' first preseason game (Winners - Caraun Reid and Devin Taylor - Both of these players have had a pretty strong camp so far, and they put together a nice play to combine for a sack on Thursday night. Reid in particular looked quite good against the Jets, and he is making a strong case to be a full-time starter at defensive tackle.) (8-14-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/13/9145923/lions-jets-preseason-winners-losers
Ten Lions to watch in exhibition opener (Devin Taylor, DE: After a poor second season, Taylor seems to have returned to the quick and powerful pass rusher he was as a rookie. The 6-foot-7 behemoth is the fourth option, but a few splash plays in the preseason could help him earn more snaps.) (8-12-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/12/ten-lions-watch-thursday-jets/31561587/
Detroit News Camp observations: Narrower posts help kickers hone in (It's hard to tell if Devin Taylor is really good, Corey Robinson is really bad or a combination of both. But Taylor has absolutely destroyed the rookie during their one-on-one competitions thus far in training camp, and it continued Tuesday. Taylor, a third-year defensive end, ran past Robinson twice with ease, which should be a good sign for the Lions defense looking for pass rush production behind Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones and Darryl Tapp. Robinson, meanwhile, started camp strong, but now that he's been exposed by an NFL-caliber player, he has to start showing improvement to make the team as a seventh-round pick.) (8-11-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/11/camp-observations-narrower-posts-help-kickers-hone/31494087/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Devin Taylor, Corey Robinson continue going opposite directions (Defensive end Devin Taylor is getting some recognition for his strong camp, splitting first-team reps on the closed side of the formation with camp starter Darryl Tapp (in place of Jones). Taylor had a sack during team drills and dominated rookie Corey Robinson in one-on-one pass rush drills once again. The backup offensive tackles had mixed results in the the one on one pass rush with Taylor and Phillip Hunt dominating Corey Robinson. Speaking of Wootton, he continues to be the fifth end on the depth chart and I'm less convinced he's making this roster than I was at the start of the offseason. It's not that he's performed poorly, but the improvement of Taylor and Webster, along with the eventual return of Jones, could make the former Bears and Vikings lineman expendable.)(8-11-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_30.html
Devin Taylor has been impressive with his pass rush moves (8-11-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/631185009685213184
Corey Robinson getting chewed up by Devin Taylor for the third straight time in one-on-ones. Phil Hunt got him too. Having said that (8-11-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/631184844270268417
MLive Training Camp Notes (Corey Robinson continues to struggle, losing reps to Devin Taylor and Larry Webster, before splitting against Phillip Hunt.) (8-10-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_2015_training_ca_10.html
Unorthodox Detroit Lions DE Devin Taylor looking to take the next step: http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_devin_taylor_1.html
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: First-team offense looks good in scrimmage (Devin Taylor had a pair of sacks, splitting one with edge-rushing mate Larry Webster. The sacks came against the second-team offensive line with Webster getting by Corey Robinson and Taylor jetting around Michael Williams.)(8-8-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_29.html
Devin Taylor whipped Corey Robinson for easy pressure, Moore barely gets it off but it's accurate (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/JeffRisdon/status/630033547634606081
Devin Taylor just destroyed Mike Williams on the left side with a beautiful swim move to sack Moore (8-8-15): https://twitter.com/alex_reno/status/630033528273698816
Freep Camp observations: Defense ahead of offense (Rookie seventh-round pick Corey Robinson struggled mightily. Devin Taylor got him off-balance with a quick step inside and Phillip Hunt faked a spin move and ran around him to get to the bag.)(8-7-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/07/lions-training-camp-thoughts/31322327/
Detroit News Camp observations: Williams pleased with progress at RT (In the one-on-one lineman drills, defensive end Devin Taylor was the star as he had one impeccable inside swim move against rookie offensive tackle Corey Robinson.) (8-7-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/07/camp-observations-williams-pleased-progress-rt/31326693
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Defense dominates 2-minute drill work (In one-on-one pass-rush drills, defensive end Devin Taylor shined, abusing rookie Corey Robinson with a pair of creative pass-rush moves. Taylor offers a versatile skill set when getting after the quarterback and has been the most impressive of the reserve defensive ends through one week of practice.) (8-7-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_28.html
Stephen Tulloch, Darryl Tapp help Lions' defense dominate offense and other Camp notes (Devin Taylor has a chance to be good: Watched a lot of offensive line against the defensive line and Taylor really stood out to me. His size is impressive -- that's always been noticeable -- but he seems to be a little bit faster off the snap this year and has good inside moves and outside moves. In the individual drill he was going up against rookie tackle Corey Robinson, but Taylor is starting to flash more and more. The Lions are also lining him up inside and outside, adding to his versatility.) (8-7-15): http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/18147/defense-led-by-stephen-tulloch-and-darryl-tapp-dominates-detroit-lions-offense-friday
Jim Caldwell's quotes from Day 5 of training camp (On DE Devin Taylor's creative pass rush technique: "I think it's helpful. One of the things that we try and do is we celebrate authenticity and uniqueness and he indeed is unique. So, he has a different style altogether where he can do some things that maybe some others can't and we encourage him to do so because in some cases, that's what is going to get him free because he's long, he's got pretty quick movements and he can work inside as well as outside. Pretty versatile guy." On Taylor getting more serious in his approach to football: "I didn't know him before, but I've always known him to be serious. As a matter of fact, it's hard to get him to smile, to be honest with you. But he's a serious guy.") (8-7-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/7/9118855/lions-training-camp-quotes-jim-caldwell-day-5
Rookie OT Corey Robinson has had a nice couple days, but he's getting killed in one on ones today against Devin Taylor (8-7-15): https://twitter.com/kmeinke/status/629757532244979712
Detroit News Camp observations: 'Tweaks' sideline Levy, Fauria at practice (The offensive and defensive lines competed in one-on-one drills again, and the offensive linemen had the better performance a second day in a row. Some of the duds were Devin Taylor, Larry Webster, Roy Philon and Gabe Wright.) (8-6-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/06/camp-observations-tweaks-sideline-levy-fauria-at-practice/31242329/
Detroit News Camp observations: For Lions, pads ratchet up intensity (The one-on-one competitions in the trenches was the first chance to truly judge the linemen, and the offensive line won the night. Among the studs in that drill Wednesday were Riley Reiff, Larry Warford, Taylor Boggs, Devin Taylor and Corey Wootton.)(8-5-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/06/camp-observations-lions-pads-ratchet-intensity/31201307/
Laken Tomlinson running with first team offense. Travis Lewis and Devin Taylor getting some first team defense run (8-5-15): https://twitter.com/mikerothstein/status/629079856639254528
MLive Camp Notes (With Haloti Ngata and Jason Jones out, Caraun Reid, Tyrunn Walker and Darryl Tapp have taken the majority of the first-team reps up front. Devin Taylor also continues to get some work at defensive tackle.) (8-4-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_25.html
DE Corey Wooten:
Wootton, out for season, hopes for another chance (9-13-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/13/wootton-season-hopes-another-chance/72214478/
Lions put DE Corey Wootton on season-ending IR (9-5-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/05/lions-put-de-corey-wootton--season-ending-ir/71780414/
RECAP: Lions vs. Bills (Rookie watch: Defensive end Corey Wootton was injured late in the fourth quarter after nearly getting to Simms for a sack.) (9-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/RECAP-Lions-vs-Bills-/d50028af-eaa0-40ef-9cfe-e012f00f393d
Ten Lions on the bubble (Corey Wootton, DE: No other defensive lineman has stuffed the stat sheet as much as Wootton — seven tackles, one for loss, two sacks and a fumble recovery. Although he didn’t stand out during camp, another strong game could keep him around.) (9-2-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/09/02/lions-bubble/71620742
Detroit Lions — Five things to watch in preseason finale against Bills (Defensive end is another competitive spot. A year ago the Lions kept five defensive ends and four defensive tackles. If that holds again (and it certainly could change), the top three defensive ends will likely be Ziggy Ansah, Jason Jones and Darryl Tapp. Phillip Hunt, Devin Taylor, Larry Webster and Corey Wootton could be in competition for the final two spots. All four should see significant playing time against the Bills.) (9-2-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150902/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-watch-in-preseason-finale-against-bills
Lions-Jaguars PFF Grades: The Stafford-Tate Connection (PFF's Grades - Corey Wooten: -1.3) (8-30-15): http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2015/8/30/9224573/lions-jaguars-pff-grades-matthew-stafford-golden-tate
Offense shines, defense struggles as Lions win (Third-string quarterback Kellen Moore led the winning touchdown drive as Zenner punched in a 3-yard run with 1:41 left in the fourth quarter, though Moore’s pass on the 2-point try fell incomplete. The drive started in Jacksonville territory after Corey Wootton recovered a fumble, the second recovery by the Lions defense in the second half.) (8-28-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/28/offense-shines-defense-struggles-lions-win/71358214/
Lions Zach Zenner drags defenders into end zone for game-winning TD against Jags (Defensive end Corey Wooten set up the game-winning score by recovering a fumble with 3:57 left. But for the most part, Detroit's defense struggled in Jacksonville.) (8-28-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_zach_zenner_drags_defend.html
O'HARA'S MONDAY COUNTDOWN: Roster watch (Jermelle Cudjo, who played 38 games for the Rams from 2010-13, and Corey Wootton, who had a seven-sack season with the Bears in 2012, have experience that’s always valuable.) (8-24-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-MONDAY-COUNTDOWN-Roster-watch/f00f0d89-7772-4948-881b-0fafd5e183d7
Lions defense destroys RGIII before backups lose exhibition in Washington (Corey Wootten finished Griffin's night with a second-quarter collision.) (8-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/lions_defense_destroys_rgiii_b.html
Detroit Lions — Five things learned from loss to Redskins (The starting defense, especially the line, looks sharp. Just ask quarterback Robert Griffin III who couldn’t get anything going before he was knocked out of the game with a stinger and possible concussion. On the play that forced him out, he fumbled and then Gabe Wright recovered the ball while Corey Wootton hit Griffin. The previous play Jermelle Cudjo sacked Griffin for a loss of four yards. Griffin dropped back to pass eight times, he got hit on six and had one batted down. He was 2-of-5 for 8 yards passing. Defensive tackle Tyrunn Walker was fierce in there as was Caraun Reid until he went out with an injured ankle. Remember they’re still playing without Haloti Ngata and Jason Jones.)(8-20-15): http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20150820/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-learned-from-loss-to-redskins
Robert Griffin III suffers concussion in painful preseason outing vs. Lions (On the third-and-16 play he was injured, Griffin tried to recover his own fumble. Defensive lineman Corey Wootton fell on top of Griffin and appeared to tweak the area between his neck and Griffin's right shoulder, with his head being hit to the side. (Wootton, you might remember, delivered the knockout blow with the Chicago Bears to Brett Favre with the Minnesota Vikings on his final NFL play in 2010.)(8-20-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/robert-griffin-iii-leaves-redskins-game-—-already---—-xwith-stinger-005029785.html
Video - Griffin takes another hit from Wooten, fumbles the ball (8-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/videos/detroit-lions/0ap3000000513816/Griffin-takes-another-hit-fumbles-the-ball
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Nevin Lawson finishes strong camp with pick, pass breakup (In pass rushing drills, converted defensive lineman Xavier Proctor had one of his better sessions, winning all three of his reps. He pancaked Corey Wootton and stuffed Brandon Coleman twice.) (8-18-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_32.html
Freep Observations from Lions camp: Don't sleep on DT Cudjo (Larry Webster has had a slow start to camp and right now appears to be the Lions' fifth defensive end, firmly behind Ziggy Ansah, Jones (who's still on the PUP list), Taylor and Darryl Tapp. In position drills, the Lions pit linemen against each other in get-off-the-ball drills. Webster went against Corey Wootton at the end of the drill, and when Wootton beat him three straight times, some of Webster's vocal teammates let him hear about it. Webster is practice-squad eligible. Keep an eye on how he plays the next few weeks.) (8-15-15): http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/15/lions-training-camp-standouts/31797691/
PFF Grades for Jets-Lions (Top 5 Graded Players: Corey Wooton + Laken Tomlinson (both +2.2)) (8-14-15): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2015/08/14/grades-for-jets-lions/
MLive Detroit Lions training camp notes: Devin Taylor, Corey Robinson continue going opposite directions (The backup offensive tackles had mixed results in the the one on one pass rush with Corey Wootton and Brandon Copeland making Xavier Proctor look like he just recently converted from defensive tackle. Speaking of Wootton, he continues to be the fifth end on the depth chart and I'm less convinced he's making this roster than I was at the start of the offseason. It's not that he's performed poorly, but the improvement of Taylor and Webster, along with the eventual return of Jones, could make the former Bears and Vikings lineman expendable.)(8-11-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_training_camp_no_30.html
MLive Training Camp Notes (Xavier Proctor, on the other hand, is showing improvement, fending off Corey Wootton and Brandon Copeland twice.) (8-10-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/08/detroit_lions_2015_training_ca_10.html
Detroit News Camp observations: For Lions, pads ratchet up intensity (The one-on-one competitions in the trenches was the first chance to truly judge the linemen, and the offensive line won the night. Among the studs in that drill Wednesday were Riley Reiff, Larry Warford, Taylor Boggs, Devin Taylor and Corey Wootton.)(8-5-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/08/06/camp-observations-lions-pads-ratchet-intensity/31201307/
Xavier Proctor's inexperience showing on the one-on-ones. Sloppy footwork, couldn't handle Corey Wootton (8-5-15): https://twitter.com/jkatzenstein/status/629089488904560640
NOTEBOOK: Tomlinson adjusts to left guard (The defensive line got riled up in the individual portion of practice when players had to back either second-year end Larry Webster or veteran Corey Wootton in an agility drill to see who could get off the line quicker. A group of veterans, including Jason Jones and Darryl Tapp chose Webster, and let the entire practice know that Webster won rather easily in both reps.) (8-3-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NOTEBOOK-Tomlinson-adjusts-to-left-guard/db84cd65-3d75-483a-86f7-1c61ba1ce1be
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