Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 5-18-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Barnwell's offseason report cards: NFC North (Lions get a C ):  http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/15567591/bill-barnwell-offseason-report-cards-chicago-bears-detroit-lions-green-bay-packers-minnesota-vikings

Local Media:

O'HARA: Joe Dahl well-equipped to protect the QB:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Joe-Dahl-well-equipped-to-protect-the-QB/d1246f35-795d-4585-b5fb-3dc8fdd1dfc4

Antwione Williams stood out against all levels of competition:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Antwione-Williams-stood-out-against-all-levels-of-competition/65afb8f3-04ed-4acc-abf5-0adf25fc0613

Lions third-rounder Graham Glasgow expects to push Travis Swanson:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/lions_third-round_pick_graham.html

Detroit Lions rookie LB doing all he can to accelerate early development:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_antwione_william_1.html

Detroit Lions — Five things to know about LB Antwione Williams:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160517/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-know-about-lb-antwione-williams

Notes: Salary cap, Wallace Gilberry and more:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/17/11690290/lions-salary-cap-wallace-gilberry-free-agency-graham-glasgow

Film breakdown: Ziggy's sacks (part one):  http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/17/11679240/pro-football-focus-ezekiel-ansah-top-101-film-breakdown

Video:

Local Media:

5th-rounders embracing learning multiple spots:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/5th-rounders-embracing-learning-multiple-spots/0be6cfa2-8eec-4560-8256-08ad320b7de4

Williams On Offseason Workouts:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Williams-on-offseason-workouts/d0599151-1454-48df-83f7-5d9f6b7009c0

Dahl On Offseason Workouts:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Dahl-on-offseason-workouts/34404a1f-2a9c-41b3-889e-889d29da787b

What can we expect at Detroit Lions OTAs?:   http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/17/84499298/

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 5-17-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Lions rookies go back to school -- football school -- in weeks after draft:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23610/lions-rookies-go-back-to-school-football-school-in-weeks-after-draft

Best offseason acquisitions for all 32 NFL teams (Detroit Lions - General manager Bob Quinn: This is a little unorthodox, but it's Quinn. Even though it happened very, very early in Detroit's offseason, bringing in Quinn signified a massive change for the woebegone Lions. It's the first time in the modern era the club hired someone directly from another team to be general manager, and he has already implemented a bunch of changes in the front office and helped the team handle free agency and the draft. It's too early to see if his approach will bring success where so many others have failed, but it was a much-needed change from the previous few regimes.):  http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/page/32for32x160516/nfl-best-offseason-acquisitions-all-32-teams-free-agency-coaches-general-managers-draft-picks 

NFL summer subplots: One burning question for each NFC team:   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000662971/article/nfl-summer-subplots-one-burning-question-for-each-nfc-team

10 players poised to make their first Top 101 in 2016 (1. Ezekiel Ansah, DE, Detriot Lions: Ezekiel Ansah appears to be one of the more surprising omissions from 2015’s list. The Lion piled up 14 sacks throughout the year, but over half of his sacks came as an unblocked rusher (three) or of the clean-up variety (six). When taking everything into account, including blocking and how quickly pressure is generated, Ansah ranked 21st among all edge defenders in pass-rush grade, which was still an improvement from his 2014 campaign. He did take a small step back in run defense from his 10th-ranked spot in 2014, and needs to become a more consistent tackler (he was in the bottom five in missed tackles at his position each of the past two seasons). If he continues in this direction as a pass-rusher and can get back to the run-defense levels he showed in 2014, he’s likely to secure a spot on next year’s list.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/05/16/pro-10-players-who-could-crack-their-first-top-101-in-2016/

Local Media:

O'HARA: Offensive coordinator change case study:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Offensive-coordinator-change-case-study/e9e3f4ab-5ce7-4eed-bf16-5cc0bb5c9b69

Rookies look to veterans for guidance as OTAs approach:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Rookies-look-to-veterans-for-guidance-as-OTAs-approach/7ec3a7e6-e894-427c-ae6d-a83422330c1d
 
Ex-Lions RB Jahvid Best aims for St. Lucia Olympic track team:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/16/jahvid-best-rio-olympics/84455528/

Pettigrew vows to be ready for start of Lions camp:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/16/pettigrew-vows-ready-start-lions-camp/84468162/

Draft picks signed, Detroit Lions about $15 million under salary cap:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_post-draft_salar.html

Morning Lions Links for Monday 5-16-16

Lions Articles:

Local Media:

Lions have unique situation with three OL in draft class:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Lions-have-unique-situation-with-three-OL-in-draft-class/69554798-a13d-4a2a-8912-8413a3d1a620

Bob Quinn focuses on versatility with Lions' roster:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/15/detroit-lions-bob-quinn/84415122/

Lions project at 9-7 in 2016, says Football Outsiders:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/15/detroit-lions-predictions/84420220/

Joique Bell doesn't rule out Lions return on the Suburban Ford 7 Cave:   http://www.wxyz.com/sports/joique-bell-doesnt-rule-out-lions-return-on-the-suburban-ford-7-sports-cave

Notes: QB predictions and Killebrew's crazy day:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/15/11678026/bleacher-report-quarterback-predictions-killebrews-crazy-day-and-more

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 5-15-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Mailbag: Is this year's Detroit Lions roster better than 2015?:   http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23606/mailbag-is-this-years-detroit-lions-roster-better-than-2015

Projecting top 100 NFL rookies of 2016: Players 61-80 (77. S Miles Killebrew, Detroit Lions: Although some competition will await Killebrew in camp for the strong safety job, look for his aggressive style to carry him into the starting role.):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000662422/article/projecting-top-100-nfl-rookies-of-2016-players-6180

Early winners of 2015 draft trades (Denver is the winner so far for the Lions-Broncos trade):   http://www.si.com/nfl/2016/05/13/2015-nfl-draft-trade-grades-winners-losers

Local Media:

Lions' Glasgow excited to reunite with U-M teammate Rudock:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/14/detroit-lions-graham-glasgow-jake-rudock/84375538/

Ask Kyle: A defense of Eric Ebron, and what to expect from him in Year 3:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/ask_kyle_a_defense_of_eric_ebr.html

Notes: Kiper's 2017 big board, WR Jay Lee and more:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/14/11675650/lions-notes-kipers-2017-big-board-udfa-jay-lee-and-more

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 5-14-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

DE J. Jones intends to sign with Miami next week:   http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/15534282/jason-jones-sign-miami-dolphins

Projecting top 100 NFL rookies of 2016: Players 21-40 (Decker is 40, Robinson is 36):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000662419/article/projecting-top-100-nfl-rookies-of-2016-players-2140

10 big-name players that missed PFF’s Top 101 of 2015:  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/05/13/pro-10-big-name-players-that-missed-the-top-101/

Local Media:

Lions drafted Miles Killebrew on his graduation day:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara-short/article-1/Lions-drafted-Miles-Killebrew-on-his-graduation-day/62c03521-48fe-4bac-9a52-36776cb69712
 
Lions' draft picks fill needs in Teryl Austin's defense:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Lions-draft-picks-fill-needs-in-Teryl-Austins-defense/3f738dd9-fb8d-40bf-ba87-879aad304288

Film study: WR Jay Lee could fill need for Detroit Lions:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/13/jay-lee-detroit-lions-baylor/84321650/

Detroit Lions sign a third UDFA defensive end; cut Lamar Holmes:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_sign_a_third_udf.html

NFL transition easier for Lions' Graham Glasgow after playing for Michigan, Harbaugh:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_graham_glasgow.html

Report: Detroit Lions hire new pro scouting director, area scout:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/report_detroit_lions_have_hire.html

Detroit Lions — Five things to know about Graham Glasgow:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160513/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-know-about-graham-glasgow

Video:

Local Media:

Tomlinson on offensive line rookies:  http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Tomlinson-on-offensive-line-rookies/736841bb-1f17-473b-9178-f5123957d5f5

Morning Lions Links for Friday 5-13-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Taylor Decker might be Lions' future LT, but first he needs to earn it:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23582/taylor-decker-might-be-lions-future-lt-now-he-just-needs-to-get-better

Regrading the 2013 draft (Lions get an A):   http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/regrading-the-2013-nfl-draft-one-shining-a-in-a-class-full-of-junk

Fearless NFL division predictions: The 8 teams that will rule in 2016:  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/fearless-nfl-division-predictions-the-8-teams-that-will-rule-in-2016/

Compensatory pick threshold passes for unrestricted free agents:   http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/05/12/compensatory-pick-threshold-passes-for-unrestricted-free-agents/

Local Media:

Graham Glasgow understands his role with Lions:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Graham-Glasgow-understands-his-role-with-Lions/cd88d308-8cf1-4a19-9493-f11332e7540f

O'HARA: Killebrew remembers his first hit ... in soccer:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Killebrew-remembers-his-first-hit--in-soccer/b401c934-ef5b-49e9-9ba4-bc47786bcb25

Pettigrew on ACL recovery: 'I'm ahead of the game':  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Pettigrew-on-ACL-recovery-Im-ahead-of-the-game/886cd19f-095d-41bd-81f2-f32596579890

New Detroit Lions LB Antwione Williams has brains to match brawn:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/11/antwione-williams-lions/84232868/

Back to school: Detroit Lions' rookies learning playbook:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/12/detroit-lions-rookies-learning-playbook/84302824/

Lions president Wood says team is breaking status quo:  http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/11/lions-president-wood-says-team-breaking-status-quo/84267036/

Madden cover curse? Not so in Calvin's case:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/12/madden-cover-curse-not-so-calvins-case/84283810/

Always a punishing hitter, the Muscle Hammer now trying to harness ability:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/always_a_big_hitter_the_muscle.html

Detroit Lions — Five things to know about rookie A’Shawn Robinson:  http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160511/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-know-about-rookie-ashawn-robinson

Detroit Lions — Five things to know about big-hitter Miles Killebrew:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160512/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-know-about-big-hitter-miles-killebrew

Video:

Local Media:

Killebrew, Glasgow Talk NFL Expectations:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Killebrew-Glasgow-talk-NFL-expectations/826cdb50-c98f-49c1-84a6-64aa115ee5b5

Killebrew On Offseason Workouts:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Killebrew-on-offseason-workouts/a886183c-a925-4be5-88a2-10ade35b8445

Glasgow On Offseason Workouts:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Glasgow-on-offseason-workouts/5004b977-998b-4627-8f51-8fc1fb197e3d

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 5-12-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Breaking down Taylor Decker's $10.9 million Lions' rookie contract:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23574/breaking-down-taylor-deckers-10-9-million-lions-rookie-contract
 
A'Shawn Robinson sees fit in Lions defense by watching Haloti Ngata:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23569/ashawn-robinson-fits-in-the-lions-defense-by-watching-haloti-ngata
 
NFC North projected starters: Team breakdowns:  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000661749/article/nfc-north-projected-starters-team-breakdowns

The most intriguing scheme fits among 2016 NFL rookies (Detroit Lions - A'Shawn Robinson: The Lions got a steal with Robinson at the 46th overall pick, but it seemed as if a lot of people didn't know what to make of the Alabama defensive lineman. Robinson put up just nine sacks over three seasons, with his high total coming in 2013 with 5.5. And when you watch his 2013 tape, that's when he was asked to rush upfield and penetrate more. As the years went on, Robinson was tasked to two-gap more often, allowing openings for other defenders to make plays. He'll need an accelerated palette of hand moves at the next level if he's to transcend that run-stopping role, but he's got the potential to do it. Detroit's coaches have already encouraged him to do so.  “To come from two-gapping and be able to attack—it’s amazing,” he said this week of the Lions' defensive scheme. “I know I’m changing my stance and just coming off the ball and explode on offensive linemen. It’s cool.”):  http://www.si.com/nfl/2016/05/11/nfl-season-2016-rookies-teams-analysis-paxton-lynch

Every NFC team’s toughest matchup in 2016 (​Detroit (Week 9 at Minnesota): The Lions split with the Packers last year and swept the Bears, and they would have been 4–0 in those games if not for that sorcery that Aaron Rodgers calls a Hail Mary. But the NFC North opponent Detroit had no success with was division champ Minnesota, which beat the Lions by 10 points in Minneapolis and nine points at Ford Field. That puts the bull’s-eye squarely on the Lions’ Week 9 trip to Minnesota, their third and final division road game before any NFC North opponents visit Detroit. Maybe going back inside the Vikings’ new dome will make the Lions feel a little bit at home.):  http://www.si.com/nfl/2016/05/10/nfl-schedule-nfc-teams-biggest-matchups

Best and worst 2016 draft picks made by each NFL team (Detroit Lions - Best: Anthony Zettel, DT, Penn State (Rd. 6, No. 202). An undersized, attacking defensive tackle, Zettel is one of the few late-round selections who can offer something as a pass rusher. If he can fill out his frame, Zettel could be a starter in the league. Worst: Taylor Decker, OT, Ohio State (Rd. 1, No. 16).  Another player we’ve been lower on throughout the draft process, Decker simply wasn’t a great pass protector in college with just slightly above-average grades the past two seasons.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/05/10/draft-best-and-worst-2016-draft-picks-made-by-each-nfl-team/

Top 101 NFL players from 2015: Nos. 26-101 (44. Darius Slay, CB, Detroit Lions (unranked): Another player stepping up his play in 2015 was Darius Slay, who earned positive grades in coverage against the run, and was only penalized three times, a very low figure for a cornerback in today’s NFL. Slay only had two interceptions, but notched a further 10 passes defensed and made a lot of quality plays for the Detroit secondary. Not without some hiccups to his game, there is room for Slay to improve even more going forward and potentially become one of the league’s best corners. Best performance: Week 10 at Green Bay: +3.3. Key stat: Finished the regular season with the second best overall grade among corners at +15.9.  57. Calvin Johnson, WR, Detroit Lions (64): In his final NFL season, Calvin Johnson didn’t produce his best year as a pro, but was still hugely impressive and did enough to plant himself firmly on this list. Johnson still played hard, earning impressive run-blocking grades to go along with his work as a receiver, and he finished the year with 88 catches for over 1,200 yards and nine touchdowns, despite Matthew Stafford struggling badly under pressure for much of the season. One of the most physically-dominant receivers of his era, it’s a shame we didn’t get to see Johnson sign off with a truly great season for the ages.  Best performance: Week 17 at Chicago: +5.0. Key stat: Johnson recorded the 11th-best drop rate among WRs in 2015.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/05/09/pro-top-101-nfl-players-from-2015-nos-76-101/

Local Media:

Abdullah looking to help improve Lions' run game:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Abdullah-looking-to-help-improve-Lions-run-game/f97293c8-eab5-4d84-ac23-418f308ecc9b

O'HARA: A look back at the Lions' last five draft classes:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-A-look-back-at-the-Lions-last-five-draft-classes/74850def-0619-409c-846a-34251873c158

With 3 draft picks, the Detroit Lions' young OL can grow together:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/11/detroit--lions-offensive-line/84220298/
 
Contract details for Detroit Lions 2016 draft picks:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/11/detroit-lions-rookie-contracts/84235776/

A'Shawn Robinson loves Detroit Lions' defensive scheme:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/ashawn_robinson_loves_detroit.html

Detroit Lions Twitter Talk: It's never too early to talk depth chart:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_twitter_talk_31.html

Former Lions WR Herman Moore will remember Calvin Johnson as 'dominant':  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/former_lions_wr_herman_moore_w.html

The History Lesson The Lions Should Have Taught Their Rookies:  http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2016/05/11/the-history-lesson-the-lions-should-have-taught-their-rookies/

Gregg Rosenthal Doesn’t Like The Lions Roster; Lions Mock Him In Response:  http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2016/05/11/gregg-rosenthal-doesnt-like-the-lions-roster-lions-mock-him-in-response/

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 5-11-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Dude Perfect, Johnny Manziel inspired Lions' Jimmy Landes' trick-snap video:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23536/dude-perfect-johnny-manziel-inspired-lions-jimmy-landes-trick-snap-video

Ten things we learned from NFL rookie minicamps:  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000660975/article/ten-things-we-learned-from-nfl-rookie-minicamps

Can the Lions replace a departed superstar in Calvin Johnson?:  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/05/10/pro-can-the-lions-replace-a-departed-hall-of-famer-in-calvin-johnson/

Local Media:

O'HARA: Robinson taking in the scheme, veterans' advice:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Robinson-taking-in-the-scheme-veterans-advice/0f2bab24-c81d-4e52-9aae-c9de4fb2068e

LT or RT? Taylor Decker isn't worried about it:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/LT-or-RT-Taylor-Decker-isnt-worried-about-it/685382b0-069d-4fa5-94ee-2e60d9c70b3f

After quick install, offense has full offseason to improve:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/After-quick-install-offense-has-full-offseason-to-improve/85967d8c-8439-4fe5-a2df-228bf5afaf16
 
Lions notes: Taylor Decker eager to tackle either side:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/10/detroit-lions-taylor-decker-rookie-offensive-tackle/84211560/

Sharp: Maybe new Lions will write a happy ending:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/drew-sharp/2016/05/10/detroit-lions-new-rookies-history-lesson-drew-sharp/84215966/

Detroit Lions' rookie contracts not bonus-heavy:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/10/detroit-lions-rookie-contracts-2016/84175620/

Decker ecstatic reuniting with Buckeyes linemate Farris:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/10/decker-estatic-reunited-buckeyes-linemate-farris/84198004/

Detroit Lions sign A'Shawn Robinson; entire rookie class now under contract:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/lions_dt_haloti_ngata_says_ash.html

How LB Jon Bostic fits with Detroit Lions:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/how_lb_jon_bostic_fits_with_de.html

Which Lions draft pick will contribute the most this season?:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/which_lions_draft_pick_will_pl.html

Detroit Lions rookies get (mostly positive) history lesson on franchise:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_rookies_get_most.html

Notes: Contract details of 2016 draft picks:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/10/11650370/lions-notes-rookie-contract-details--taylor-decker-graham-glasgow-2016-rookies

Video:

Local Media:

Decker, Robinson Finding Their Fit On The Team:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Decker-Robinson-finding-their-fit-on-the-team/931e38bb-dd88-45b0-bb42-ff64f023a233

Robinson On Offseason Workouts:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Robinson-on-offseason-workouts/71e4b93b-1ded-49eb-93bf-b2baf2ef83af

Decker On Offseason Workouts:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Decker-on-offseason-workouts/034c0b22-68f8-4cb2-85c4-a99365d9ef09

Detroit Lions rookie history day: Uh-oh:   http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/10/84189284/

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 4-10-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Lions' Bob Quinn heads to his old home to pull off first trade with Patriots:   http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23550/lions-bob-quinn-heads-to-his-old-home-to-pull-off-first-trade-with-patriots

Best rookie for every NFL team (Detroit Lions: The Lions are expecting Taylor Decker, the team's first-round pick, to make an impact right away on an offensive line that struggled the past two seasons. He could end up as the Week 1 starter at right tackle and might push Riley Reiff to become the team's left tackle. That's where Detroit hopes his future will be -- if not in 2016, then in the long term. The Lions need Decker to be immediately successful for their offense to improve.):   http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/page/32for32x160509/predicting-best-rookie-all-32-nfl-teams-2016-draft

Lions surprised A’Shawn Robinson was available in the second round:  http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2016/05/09/lions-surprised-ashawn-robinson-was-available-in-the-second-round/

2016 NFL season over/under win total picks for NFC: Bury the Eagles (Detroit Lions 7.0 Over (-125) / Under (-105) — The departure of Calvin Johnson makes this team impossible to figure out. Retaining Jim Caldwell was weird, but Jim Bob Cooter got the best out of Matthew Stafford down the stretch last year. Are Marvin Jones and Golden Tate decimating defenses? Can Ameer Abdullah stop fumbling? There's a lot of investment on the offensive line and a lot of talent on defense but some serious questions about how life will be post-Megatron. VERDICT: UNDER): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25580076/2016-nfl-season-overunder-win-total-picks-for-nfc-bury-the-eagles

Local Media:

O'HARA: Rudock-Brady connection just a coincidence:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARA-Rudock-Brady-connection-just-a-coincidence/54ae6b39-d792-45fc-a7cb-174a736ad502

Ziggy Ansah would love to see an NFL game played in Africa:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Ziggy-Ansah-would-love-to-see-an-NFL-game-played-in-Africa/ffb16b20-8b61-4793-8a10-e15f31ab8bcc

Quinn: Lions want to see how Decker 'mixes in' on OL:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/09/taylor-decker-position-detroit-lions/84138496/

Monarrez: Could Ziggy Ansah's dad get Lions star to give answers?:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/09/detroit-lions-ziggy-ansah-dad/84169074/

Lions GM Bob Quinn's first trade is with ... the Patriots:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/lions_gm_bob_quinns_first_trad.html

You can stop holding your breath on a Calvin Johnson comeback:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/you_can_stop_holding_your_brea.html

81 days later, Lions still holding Stephen Tulloch in limbo:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/81_days_later_lions_still_hold.html

Film breakdown: Packaging the Matthew Stafford offense:  http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/9/11594212/packaging-the-matthew-stafford-offense

Notes: Lions' offseason ranked 24th in the NFL:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/9/11641144/lions-notes-usa-today-believes-detroit-has-24th-best-offseason

Morning Lions Links for Monday 4-9-16

Lions Articles:

Local Media:

Lomas Brown talks Lions' lineman-heavy draft class:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/Lomas-Brown-talks-Lions-lineman-heavy-draft-class/bb292fea-c2b2-44fa-876e-4471782aec5f

Lions' Levy 'looking good' in return from hip injury:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/08/detroit-lions-deandre-levy/84114880/

Lions sign Middle Tennessee OL Darius Johnson:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/08/lions-sign-middle-tennessee-ol-darius-johnson/84118882/

Under contract through 2017, Ezekiel Ansah not thinking about long-term deal:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_ezekiel_ansah_4.html

Detroit Lions cut OT, sign tryout player from rookie minicamp:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_cut_ot_sign_tryo.html

Notes: Lions had least-athletic OL in 2015:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/8/11634634/notes-detroit-lions-least-athletic-offensive-line-2015

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 5-8-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Mailbag: Could any undrafted free agents like Jay Lee make the Lions?:   http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23532/mailbag-could-any-undrafted-free-agents-like-jay-lee-make-the-lions

Lions put players on field for 1st time with GM Bob Quinn:   http://sports.yahoo.com/news/lions-sign-rookies-other-alabamas-ashawn-robinson-185423709--nfl.html

Local Media:

Leading by example: Ziggy is going to be Ziggy:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Leading-by-example-Ziggy-is-going-to-be-Ziggy/730fea1e-867c-444a-a9cc-be416122c5a9

For now, Lions' Taylor Decker lines up at left tackle:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/07/lions-taylor-decker-lines-up-left-tackle/84077340/

Detroit Lions' Miles Killebrew lives up to 'Killa' nickname:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/07/detroit-lions-miles-killebrew/84093314/

Landes knows he must earn Detroit Lions long snapper job:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/07/detroit-lions-jimmy-landes/84090930/

Tulloch's status with Lions remains mystery:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/07/tullochs-status-lions-remains-mystery/84081898/

Lions' Taylor Decker without a position as Lions open rookie minicamp:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/lions_taylor_decker_without_a.html

Detroit Lions — Five undrafted rookies to watch:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160507/detroit-lions-x2014-five-undrafted-rookies-to-watch

Jim Caldwell pre-minicamp presser transcript:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/7/11615638/jim-caldwell-rookie-minicamp-press-conference-transcript

Notes: Lions' draft picks select jersey numbers:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/7/11615644/detroit-lions-2016-draft-picks-jersey-numbers

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 5-7-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Jim Caldwell, Lions continue to deflect questions about Stephen Tulloch:   http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23527/jim-caldwell-lions-continue-to-deflect-questions-about-stephen-tulloch

Lions land talented WRs Jay Lee, Quinshad Davis in undrafted free-agent haul:   http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23518/lions-bring-in-talented-receivers-jay-lee-quinshad-davis-in-udfa-haul

Top 10 head-to-head rookie matchups to watch (10. A'Shawn Robinson vs. Ryan Kelly - Game: Detroit Lions at Indianapolis Colts. Date: Sept. 11. Why it resonates: Former teammates will square off in the trenches in their career debuts. Robinson, a DT, and Kelly, a center, both starred at Alabama, so they're very familiar with each other. NFL Media analyst Daniel Jeremiah has already predicted a winnerin the head-to-head battle.):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000660209/article/top-10-headtohead-rookie-matchups-to-watch-in-2016

Five best 2016 NFL Draft bargain picks: NFC North (DT A'Shawn Robinson, Detroit Lions: Drafted: 2nd round (46th overall). Why he's a bargain: Considered a strong candidate to be a first-round choice, Robinson was one of the last players left in the green room in Chicago. He was a three-year starter at Alabama, where he led the team in sacks as a freshman (5.5). He's more of a run-stopper than anything, but he has more upside as a pass rusher than teammate Jarran Reed, who was chosen three picks later by the Seattle Seahawks. Robinson can hold the point against double teams and be disruptive when single blocked.):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000659478/article/five-best-2016-nfl-draft-bargain-picks-nfc-north

2016 NFL Draft Grade Bonanza:   http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/62498/271/2016-nfl-draft-grade-bonanza?pg=2

Local Media:

TIM AND MIKE: Observations from rookie minicamp:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-mike/article-1/TIM-AND-MIKE-Observations-from-rookie-minicamp/16591ed9-36f4-45fa-88c0-aea66a3bee86

Lions roster has competition at every position:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Lions-roster-has-competition-at-every-position/ba493d88-5e38-445a-b062-2e0037a25e9a

Lions sign 12 undrafted rookie free agents:   http://www.detroitlions.com/news/news-short/article-1/Lions-sign-12-undrafted-rookie-free-agents/bffe41c8-2084-46d6-ab42-1c9186d07b3f

Film study: A'Shawn Robinson's strengths, weaknesses:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/06/detroit-lions-ashawn-robinson/84019234/

Minicamp reveals little about where Lions rookies fit in:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/06/detroit-lions-rookie-minicamp/84052634/

Sharp: 'Patriot Way' will require Lions to be ruthless:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/drew-sharp/2016/05/06/detroit-lions-bob-quinn-patriots/84053102/

Time for Lions to do Tulloch right, release him:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/06/detroit-lions-stephen-tulloch/84042148/

Caldwell keeps mum on line plans for Taylor Decker:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/06/caldwell-keeps-mum-line-plans-taylor-decker/84037830/

Niyo: Ansah’s pride, father give him a push:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/columnists/john-niyo/2016/05/05/niyo-ansahs-pride-father-give-push/84006028/

Lions believe more competition means improvement:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/06/lions-believe-competition-means-improvement/84057378/

Lions ink all draft picks except A'Shawn Robinson before minicamp; assign numbers:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/lions_ink_all_draft_picks_exce.html

LeCharles Bentley says Lions' UDFA Chase Farris could be Jason Peters-like steal:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_chase_farris.html

Meet the Detroit Lions' 2016 undrafted free agents:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/meet_the_detroit_lions_2016_un.html

With rookie minicamp set to open today, 6 Lions who could be in trouble:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/with_rookie_minicamp_set_to_op.html

Sports Illustrated ranks just how good that 2013 draft class was for Lions:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/sports_illustrated_ranks_just.html

Jim Caldwell says he knew 'zero' of Jerry Sandusky's crimes while assistant at Penn State:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/jim_caldwell_says_he_knew_noth.html

Detroit Lions — Five things to know about the start of rookie minicamp:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160506/detroit-lions-x2014-five-things-to-know-about-the-start-of-rookie-minicamp

Detroit Lions notes: Undrafted rookies get a look at minicamp:   http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160506/detroit-lions-notes-undrafted-rookies-get-a-look-at-minicamp

Notes: Lions 2013 draft class receives 'A' grade:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/6/11606116/detroits-lions-2013-draft-class-re-grade-second-highest

Video:

Local Media:

Caldwell On Rookie Minicamp:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Caldwell-on-rookie-minicamp/9ad89165-1992-46eb-92e5-0ca01cc0e1a0

Rookie Minicamp Kicks Off Today:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Rookie-minicamp-kicks-off-today/0b28b8a6-b76e-4037-8b31-2fb74189b0f1

What we learned from Lions' locked-down rookie camp:   http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/06/84037288/

DT Anthony Zettel Articles

Scouting Reports:

PSU Profile Page:  http://www.gopsusports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/anthony_zettel_770223.html

NFL:  http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/anthony-zettel?id=2555268

CBS:  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1889927/anthony-zettel

PFF:  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/04/04/draft-pff-scouting-report-anthony-zettel-dt-penn-state/

NFP:  http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/breaking-down-de-dadi-nicolas-and-dt-anthony-zettel/

Draft Insider:  http://www.draftinsider.net/reports/2016/DE/Anthony-Zettel

Articles:

Best prospects still available after third round of 2016 NFL draft Zettel is ranked as the 4th best DT.) (4-30-16):  http://www.si.com/nfl/2016/04/30/nfl-draft-best-available-prospects-connor-cook-andrew-billings

Top 50 available prospects for Day 3 of 2016 NFL draft (44. Anthony Zettel, Defensive Interior, Penn State (Big Board Rank: 114, Position Rank: 20):  While he struggles with power at the point of attack, Zettel can get after the quarterback, as evidenced by his +24.5 pass rush grade than ranked fourth in the nation in 2014.) (4-29-16):   https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/04/29/draft-top-50-available-prospects-for-day-3-of-2016-nfl-draft/

Walterfootball Defensive Tackle Rankings (24. Anthony Zettel, DT/DE, Penn State -Height: 6-4. Weight: 284. Arm: 31.13.  40 Time: 4.81.  Projected Round (2016): 4-6.  4/27/16: Zettel was solid for Penn State with a lot of power at the point of attack. He totaled 47 tackles with 11 for a loss, four sacks, six passes batted and a forced fumble during 2015. Zettel put more pressure on the quarterback than his sack total indicates. He had a quality week at the East-West Shrine, but is top heavy. Zettel needs to build up his lower body to have a strong base for the NFL. He was faster than expected at the combine.  8/22/15: Zettel is undersized for defensive tackle, but he is a quick interior rusher. For the NFL, he will have to move to 4-3 defensive end and could move inside for passing situations. Zettel has the frame to warrant consideration as a five-technique in a 3-4 defense.  Zettel's 2014 season showed that he has interior pass-rushing skills as he racked up eight sacks. He also had 42 tackles with 17 tackles for a loss. Zettel had four sacks per year as a sophomore and a freshman.) (4-27-16):  http://walterfootball.com/draft2016DT.php



Penn State's Zettel worked out on DL, at LB and TE (3-17-16):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000645478/article/penn-states-zettel-worked-out-on-dl-at-lb-and-te

Defensive linemen headline Penn State’s 2016 draft class (Anthony Zettel, DT, +28.3:  Zettel makes an interesting projection because of his regression in 2015. He finished 2014 as our fifth overall defensive tackle, with a +43.8 grade. Zettel’s sack count fell from ten to just two, even if he added three hits and a further 27 hurries. He clearly has the talent but such a drop-off in performance will have alarm bells ringing with NFL franchises. Unlike his teammate, Zettel performed well in the athletic tests at the combine, which matches up with his quickness in the pass rushing department.  On the other hand, his stature results in some deficiencies against the run. Zettel weighed in at just 277 pounds with arms of just over 31 inches. The lack of length and power shows up frequently against double teams where Zettel either ends up going backwards or on his back. He was also single blocked with alarming regularity for an interior defensive lineman. Even when he was able to beat his blocker, Zettel failed to finish either overpersuing or missing the tackle. Zettel will likely be a pass rusher only until he can get in an NFL weight room.) (3-3-16):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/03/03/draft-defensive-linemen-headline-penn-states-2016-draft-class/

NFL Combine 2016: Penn State's Anthony Zettel meets the media in Indy (2-26-16):  http://www.pennlive.com/pennstatefootball/index.ssf/2016/02/nfl_combine_2016_penn_states_a.html

NFL combine guide: Connor Cook, Willie Henry and other local college players to watch (DT Anthony Zettel: The 6-4, 278-pounder from West Branch, Mich., known for tackling a tree, played more on the interior of the D-line for Penn State in 2015 and his production suffered a bit. He had 47 tackles (11 for loss), four sacks and six pass breakups and was third-team All-Big Ten. In 2014, Zettel played outside more and had 17 TFL, eight sacks and three interceptions en route to first-team all-Big Ten honors.) (2-23-16):   http://www.mlive.com/sports/2016/02/nfl_combine_guide.html

NFL Combine: 5 Names To Watch (Anthony Zettel, DT, Penn State: All-American Carl Nassib overshadowed Zettel on the Nittany Lions' defensive line in 2015, but Zettel still managed 11 tackles for loss and showcased his athleticism and versatility. At 6-foot-4 and 284 pounds, he could play a number of positions at the next level, but his strength and agility will jump off the field for scouts. The fifth-year senior was a shot-putter in high school, is an avid golfer with great coordination and set school records in the hang clean and power clean. He also does MMA training in the offseason and garnered plenty of attention when he … wait for it … tackled a tree.) (2-12-16):   http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/164286282/nfl-scouting-combine-draft-players-to-watch

2016 East-West Shrine Game East Practice Report (One player who drew some "oohs" from the scouts with impressive rushes around the corner was Penn State defensive lineman Anthony Zettel. He victimized Rutgers tackle Keith Lumpkin on two reps. Lumpkin (6-8, 325) looks slow-footed and late getting out of his stance. Zettel has had a good week at the East-West Shrine. He has very good hands to get free of blockers. He just needs some more lower body strength. That could be seen on one stunt where Zettel got knocked down by Lumpkin, but he did execute the stunt well to free up his teammate for a sack. Zettel looks like a solid mid-rounder.) (1-21-16):   http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2016practice5.php

East Practice Notes (Penn State’s Anthony Zettel came with a lot more fanfare, but I was disappointed for the most part as he looked eminently blockable throughout the first day, with the exception of one snap.) (1-20-16):   http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2016-shrine-game-east-practice-notes-from-day-1-and-2.html

2016 Shrine Game: Defensive Preview (Penn State defensive lineman Anthony Zettel (6-4, 282) was often overshadowed this season by his defensive line teammates Austin Johnson and Carl Nassib, who will both participate in the Senior Bowl. But Zettel is still a very appealing prospect in the right scheme. He makes a living by beating blockers to gaps due to his first step quickness and snap anticipation, using a variety of hand moves and an unrelenting motor. Zettel tends to play overaggressive and scouts want to see him better stack-and-shed at the point of attack.) (1-18-16):  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25453372/shrine-game-defensive-preview

East Roster Preview (3. Anthony Zettel, Penn State: The unquestioned leader of the Penn State team and a uniquely impressive athlete, Zettel had a letdown senior season, finishing as arguably the third best prospect on his defensive line. Explosiveness off the snap wasn’t an issue, but he struggled to disrupt pockets with upfield push, and was too often neutralized in run support despite plus-team support. He’ll need a strong Shrine Game showing to get back in the good graces of teams. I was told earlier in the year that he’s closer to an undrafted prospect than a second-rounder, but I’ll still hold out hope Zettel can earn an NFL starting opportunity in time.) (1-18-16):   http://optimumscouting.com/uncategorized/2016-shrine-game-preview-east-roster-led-by-three-of-the-nfl-drafts-top-small-schoolers.html

10 Players to Watch At Shrine Game Practices (Anthony Zettel, DL, Penn State: The 6’4”, 284-pound Zettel is a good case study of a player who was more highly regarded entering the season than at the end…even though he played pretty darn well in 2015. He didn’t make as many splash plays as he had earlier in his career, but that was a result of the unforeseen explosion of Carl Nassib and the emergence of Austin Johnson inside. Part of the battle for Zettel is to zero in on one specific NFL role. At his size, he’s not going to play tackle regularly in the NFL. Can he show enough quickness to prove he can play 4-3 strongside end? Does he have enough power and sand in the pants to play 5T or shaded 4 in an odd front? What are his actual measurements, as I’ve heard from one person he is now in the 270s while another source places him at 6’3” and 292 instead of his above listed dimensions? On paper from the summer, Zettel looks like the top defensive lineman on either roster. He can revitalize his draft stock with a strong week, perhaps playing his way into joining Nassib at the Senior Bowl the following week.) (1-17-16):   http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2754/10-Players-to-Watch-At-Shrine-Game-Practices

5 prospects that helped their NFL draft stock during bowl season (Anthony Zettel, PSU DT: After finishing the 2014 season as our fifth-ranked defensive tackle, this is the player we thought we’d see all year. Yet heading into the bowl game Zettel was our 52nd-ranked DT with games against Ohio State and Michigan State where he disappeared completely. With questions about how he’d fare against top-level competition, Zettel dominated a talented Georgia offensive line. He collected a sack plus three additional hurries and made two stops in the run game earning his highest grade of the season (+8.7). There are still question marks lingering about why he was only able to notch two total stops against the three best offensive lines he played during the season, but his performance will help to ease some of those.) (1-6-16):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/01/06/college-5-prospects-that-helped-their-nfl-draft-stock-during-bowl-season/

What's next for Penn State tackle Anthony Zettel? A trip to the West Coast, and an all-star game, are in his plans (1-6-16):  http://www.pennlive.com/pennstatefootball/index.ssf/2016/01/whats_next_for_penn_state_tack.html

Penn State star Anthony Zettel, who lost his father Friday, puts it all on the line for the Lions against the Aztecs (9-26-16):  http://www.pennlive.com/pennstatefootball/index.ssf/2015/09/penn_state_star_anthony_zettel.html

Rob Rang's Big Board (32. Anthony Zettel, DT, Penn State, 6-4, 278, 4.84, Redshirt Sr.: A quick-twitch penetrator in a class filled with powerful run-stuffers, Zettel stands apart from other defensive tackles and not just because of his eye-popping production, which included 42 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, eight sacks, eight passes broken up and three interceptions. The former defensive end wins with quickness off the snap as well as active hands, a relentless motor and a knack for finding the ball.) (9-13-15):  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/story/25296304/big-board-both-vernon-hargreaves-iii-jalen-ramsey-top-10-dbs

Ohio State's Joey Bosa, Ezekiel Elliott headline Big Ten's top NFL prospects (9. Anthony Zettel, DT, Penn State, RSr. (6-4, 278, 4.87):  Lining up at several positions on the defensive line for Penn State, Zettel is a disruptive penetrator with a versatile skill-set to win with power and quickness off the snap. He uses a variety of moves to beat his man with aggressive hands, quick feet and a deadly spin move to blow up the A-gap, but he tends to play too hard at times and overruns angles. Although he doesn't have prototypical size for an interior defensive line prospect, Zettel's skill-set projects to both even and odd fronts in the NFL and if he matches or exceeds his 2014 performance, the first round will be calling his name.) (8-25-15):  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25280056/buckeyes-bosa-and-elliott-headline-the-big-tens-top-nfl-prospects
 
2016 NFL Draft: Penn State Preview (Anthony Zettel, DT, Redshirt Senior (6-4, 278, 4.87): Lining up at several positions on the defensive line for Penn State, Zettel is a disruptive penetrator with a versatile skill-set to win with power and/or quickness off the snap. A defensive end when he arrived in Happy Valley, he added 25 pounds of muscle and moved inside for his junior season, giving the Nittany Lions and interior rush presence. No player in the Big Ten had as many tackles for loss as Joey Bosa (21.5) last year, but Zettel was the closest with 17 stops behind the line of scrimmage in 2014, adding 42 tackles, 8.0 sacks, three interceptions and eight passes defended. He has an explosive first step with consistent snap anticipation to attack blockers before they have a chance to react. Zettel uses a variety of moves to beat his man with aggressive hands, lateral agility and a deadly spin move to blow up the A-gap with a competitive motor that is always revving. He does play too hard at times and overruns angles or ends up on the ground because of his overaggressive nature and he has room to better control his momentum to finish in tight spaces. Although he doesn't have prototypical size for an interior defensive line prospect, Zettel's skill-set projects to both even and odd fronts in the NFL and if he matches or exceeds his 2014 performance, the first round will be calling his name.) (7-15-16):  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25241936/nfl-draft-penn-state-preview

Antwoine Williams Articles

Scouting Reports:

Southern Georgia Profile Page:  http://gseagles.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=985

NFL:   http://www.nfl.com/draft/2016/profiles/antwione-williams?id=2556114&id=2556114

CBS:   http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1865774/antwione-williams

Draft Insider:  http://www.draftinsider.net/reports/2016/ILB/Antwione-Williams

Articles:

Eagles participate in Pro Day workouts (4-7-16):  http://www.thegeorgeanne.com/sports/article_b2a676a6-fc3c-11e5-b03c-6bbaac13f361.html

Georgia Southern Hosts Annual NFL Pro Day (Among the 15 NFL teams in attendance were the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants, Oakland Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, New York Jets, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions and the World Champion Denver Broncos.) (4-6-16):  http://wsav.com/2016/04/06/georgia-southern-hosts-annual-nfl-pro-day/

Eagles look to Soar for NFL Scouts during Georgia Southern Pro-Day (There's a Lions scout in the third picture.) (4-6-16):  http://www.wjcl.com/news/sports/eagles-look-to-soar-for-nfl-scouts-during-georgia-southern-pro-day/173185148/story

Video - Antwoine Williams Highlights (1-27-16):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FavqBNeNjHE

What we learned on Day 3 (3. Turning heads. Two of the best practice performances for the East squad Wednesday morning came from linebackers Terrance Smith (FSU) and Antwione Williams (Georgia Southern). Williams is the bigger of the two at 6-3, 245, but gets to the sideline in a hurry on stretch plays and made a big hit at the boundary during the team period. Smith continued to show well in pass coverage, snuffing a screen pass to Illinois' Josh Ferguson and reacting well to some quicker throws in a red zone drill.) (1-20-16):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000625764/article/utahs-carter-jared-goffs-fiveint-game-not-indicative-of-talent

East Practice Notes (The Mr. Universe award for the East squad definitely belongs to Georgia Southern’s Antwione Williams, who checks in at 6’3″ and 245 pounds with washboard abs. He and Louisville’s James Burgess worked at middle linebacker, and both had plenty of opportunities to flow to the football during 11-on-11’s, as linemen struggled to get out to the second level. Linebackers rarely get a chance to stand out in these All Star practice settings, I have found over the years. I have learned to take them with a little bit of a grain of salt.) (1-20-16):   http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2016-shrine-game-east-practice-notes-from-day-1-and-2.html

Pauline's Shrine Game Preview: Monday Practice (Antwoin Williams/LB/Georgia Southern: Williams is another small school defender who both looked and played the part today. He was the most physically impressive linebacker on the East squad and dominated in run defense. Though his reps in coverage were limited, Williams did well stopping would be pass catchers who came across the middle.) (1-18-16):  http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Paulines-Shrine-Game-Preview-Monday/a2664736-2494-4c1f-b21a-8c671e2b83af

Risers and Sliders: Week Nine (Sleeper Prospect Antwione Williams/LB/Georgia Southern: The Eagles are one of the better stories in college football as the former IAA program are on their way to a second consecutive nine win season. They’ve also had a fair number of middle round picks in recent draft’s and Williams could be next. There’s been a lot of recent chatter about the linebacker who measures 6-feet/2.5-inches, 250-pounds and times 4.7s in the forty. Williams leads the defense in tackles (67), tackles for loss (7) and has added 2.5 sacks. Though more of a two down defender, he’ll be a solid fit on the inside of a 3-4 alignment come Sunday afternoon.) (11-2-16):   http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10957

Morning Lions Links for Friday 5-6-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Lions drafted Antwione Williams while he was installing dishwasher:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23510/lions-drafted-antwione-williams-while-he-was-installing-a-dishwasher

Revisiting 2013 NFL draft: Grading each team’s picks, three years later (Lions get an A):  http://www.si.com/nfl/2016/05/05/nfl-draft-2013-grades-picks-analysis-results

Every team's unfinished business (Make Eric Ebron their new go-to guy. Megatron has faded to black, leaving Golden Tate and former Bengal Marvin Jones as the starting wide receivers. But those two are feisty big-play guys; Matthew Stafford needs a big-target security blanket. Ebron (6-4, 265) put it together late in his second season, and the Lions should trust his hands and routes to make the first-rounder a lot more active in Year 3.  Sort out the backfield. Ameer Abdullah had a rough first season in Detroit, and another promising rookie option, Zach Zenner, was felled by injury. Joique Bell is gone. Theo Riddick isn’t built to be a featured option. The Lions need to see what they can get out of their two new options, veteran Stevan Ridley and rookie Dewayne Washington. Nothing can be ruled out for a team that finished dead last in rushing last season.  Get A’Shawn Robinson pro ready fast. For defensive tackles, it’s not easy to get there and deliver as rookies, as players such as the Rams’ Aaron Donald are more the exception than the rule. Robinson, the Lions’ second-rounder, has great physical talent to be a complete, dominant tackle, but he needs to find a comfortable role where he isn’t overwhelmed. The Lions need to decide if they want to mold him first as a steady inside run stopper or flashy inside pass rusher.):  http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/list/nfl-offseason-priorities-to-do-list-kaepernick-bradford-von-miller-rgiii-tom-brady-suspension/or9olor77fkr1tu1i5ak7mjao/slide/11

Red Lion's OL Andrew Zeller embraces his shot in Detroit:  http://www.ydr.com/story/sports/2016/05/05/red-lions-zeller-embraces-his-shot-lions/83962246/
 
NFC North draft grades: Minnesota master class? (Lions draft class ranked 3rd in the NFC North):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000660072/article/nfc-north-draft-grades-business-as-usual-for-vikings-packers

Five best 2016 NFL Draft bargain picks: NFC North (Two are for the Lions - Robinson and Washington):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000659478/article/five-best-2016-nfl-draft-bargain-picks-nfc-north

Local Media:

Tim and Mike: 2016 NFL Draft analysis:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-mike/article-1/TIM-AND-MIKE-2016-NFL-Draft-analysis/f0dc7462-3388-4b5d-b67f-61f5bcd916e3

Lions finalizing rookie deals; LS Landes to sign today:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/detroit-lions-rookie-contracts/83972964/
 
Remarkable work ethic lands CB Ian Wells with Detroit Lions:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/ian-wells-detroit-lions/83960520/

Monarrez: Did Lions’ NFC North foes patch up holes in NFL draft?:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/detroit-lions-nfc-north-green-bay-packers-minnesota-vikings-ccccc/83958276/

Ansah deal with Lions? 'See how this season goes':   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/ziggy-ansah-lions-contract/83974462/

Lions think small school TE Wick can do big things:  http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/04/lions-think-small-school-te-wick-can-big-things/83953666/

Lions cut another center, Darren Keyton:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/lions-cut-another-center-darren-keyton/83987916/

Landes, Zettel are first Lions draft picks to sign:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/jimmy-landes-first-lions-draft-pick-sign/83982176/

For Ezekiel Ansah and his daddy, it's never enough:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/for_ezekiel_ansah_and_his_dadd.html

Jake Rudock, Graham Glasgow re-establish Michigan pipeline to Lions:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/jake_rudock_graham_glasgow_re-.html

Video:

Local Media:

Ansah On Offseason:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Ansah-on-Offseason/abff3e1c-9363-4c9e-9c9a-fe92a3460805

What can Lions' Ziggy Ansah do to get more pub?:   http://www.freep.com/videos/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/05/83982240/

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 5-5-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Our analysts rank their top 100 players in 2016 (Golden Tate is 94):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000659777/article/my-top-100-91100-derek-carr-grows-ty-hilton-shines

How all 31 first-round picks fit with their new teams (16. Detroit Lions: OT Taylor Decker: Ohio State employed multiple run schemes, and as a result the label of “Jack of all trades, master of none” could probably be applied to Decker’s game. However, Detroit’s run game featured a gap-scheme the majority of the time, and that should fit Decker’s physical skill-set. Decker’s pass-blocking is a concern, as he was not asked to do a lot of 5-step, dropback, pro-style pass protection at Ohio State, and he didn’t grade particularly well in that area. Decker will be competing for starting spots with free-agent acquisition Geoff Schwartz at right tackle and the Lions’ current starting left tackle Riley Reiff.):  https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2016/05/03/how-all-31-first-round-picks-fit-with-their-new-teams/

Ranking the worst QB situations in the NFL (Lions ranked 19th worst):   http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/nfl-quarterback-qb-situations-2016-depth-charts-ranking-the-best-worst-cowboys-eagles-pack-050416

Sacred Heart graduate TE Cole Wick to sign free agent contract with Detroit Lions:   https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/2016/may/04/sacred-heart-graduate-signs-free-agent-contract-wi/

Local Media:

Stafford: TJ Jones has breakout potential:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Stafford-TJ-Jones-has-breakout-potential/e28a93ae-effa-439a-be39-9333e78e0158

Draft grades for the Lions' 2016 opponents:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Draft-grades-for-the-Lions-2016-opponents/a29b2713-2047-4457-8bd6-0fe37a809cd8

Baylor's Lee vying for No. 5 WR job with Lions:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/04/jay-lee-detroit-lions/83915068/

Sharp: Now without Megatron, Lions QB Stafford must earn next contract:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/drew-sharp/2016/05/04/detroit-lions-matthew-stafford-drew-sharp/83955826/

Report: Ex-Detroit Lions WR Brett Perriman hospitalized:   http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/04/detroit-lions-brett-perriman/83946260/

Lions cut C Cave and TE Pierce, sign TE Wick:   http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/04/lions-cut-c-cave-and-te-pierce-sign-te-wick/83912516/

Lions sign ex-Broncos WR Andre Caldwell; release tight end:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/lions_sign_ex-broncos_wr_andre.html

While no Leicester City, Detroit Lions an increasing long shot to win Super Bowl 51:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/while_no_leicester_city_detroi.html

After tragedy strikes, Lions fan Anthony Zettel drafted by Detroit:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/after_tragedy_strikes_lions_fa.html

LeCharles Bentley raves about Taylor Decker's character, commitment and strength:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/taylor_decker_lecharles_bentle.html

Notes: Decker's jersey number, Lions hire scout:   http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/4/11584544/lions-notes-taylor-decker-selects-his-number

Video:

Local Media:

Stafford On Lions' 2016 Draft:   http://www.detroitlions.com/media-center/videos/Stafford-on-Lions-2016-draft/af5c4358-0f21-4d8f-8ab6-61044a13cb52

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 5-3-16

Lions Articles:

National Media:

Versatility, focusing on lines are takeaways from Bob Quinn's first Lions draft:  http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23472/versatility-focusing-on-lines-are-takeaways-from-bob-quinns-first-lions-draft

Sam Martin 'stoked' about Detroit Lions' 'kicker-conducive' 2016 sked:   http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/23493/sam-martin-stoked-about-detroit-lions-kicker-conducive-2016-sked

Clayton: My five favorite draft classes (5. Detroit Lions:  I liked the way the Lions attacked the offensive line in the draft. They had a strong O-line two years ago, but play fell off dramatically last season. Taking offensive tackle Taylor Decker in the first round was a no-brainer. He's a natural at left tackle. And it's not out of the question that the Lions could have hit on two interior offensive linemen in Graham Glasgow (third round) and Joe Dahl (fifth round).  What put this draft over the top for me is defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson dropping to them in the second round. Those four big bodies make the Lions bigger and tougher along the line of scrimmage.):  http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2016/story/_/id/15447567/nfl-draft-2016-john-clayton-five-favorite-draft-classes-jacksonville-jaguars-tampa-bay-buccaneers-top

2016 NFL Draft: Jaguars, Cowboys among most improved teams (8. Detroit Lions: The Lions appear to finally have a real football person making football decisions -- and what a difference it makes. New GM Bob Quinn had a very strong nuts-and-bolts draft that deserves to be celebrated. Tackle Taylor Decker (No. 16 overall) was a great pick in the middle of the first round to shore up the offensive line. I was floored that defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson was still around for the Lions to pilfer in Round 2 (No. 46 overall). Quinn put an emphasis on the talent in the trenches, using five of his 10 picks on offensive and defensive linemen, for a team that ranked 32nd in rushing offense and 19th in run defense in 2015, and I loved it.):   http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000659392/article/2016-nfl-draft-jaguars-cowboys-among-most-improved-teams

Ranking every club's 2016 NFL Draft haul: Teams 5-8 (5. Detroit Lions -Draft picks: Taylor Decker (No. 16 overall), A'Shawn Robinson (No. 46 overall), Graham Glasgow (No. 95 overall), Miles Killebrew (No. 111), Joe Dahl (No. 151), Antwione Williams (No. 169), Jake Rudock (No. 191), Anthony Zettel (No. 202), Jimmy Landes (No. 210), Dwayne Washington (No. 236): What I like about the Lions' draft is that they came in wanting to get bigger and tougher, and they followed that plan with their first five picks. If A'Shawn Robinson can develop a pass rush, look out. This draft should produce several future starters for the Lions.):  http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000659570/article/ranking-every-clubs-2016-nfl-draft-haul-teams-58

Team with most-improved post-draft Super Bowl 51 odds will shock you (Lions odds before the draft were 50-to-1, after the Lions odds are 66-to-1):  http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25575853/super-bowl-51-team-with-the-most-improved-post-draft-odds-will-shock-you

Each team's best undrafted free agent signing of 2016 (Detroit Lions: Jay Lee, WR, Baylor - For all the weapons the Lions have, they are lacking a true deep threat. They would love third-year receiver Corey Fuller to be that guy, but Lee could push him. The Baylor product is very limited as a route-runner, but he can go deep.):  http://www.si.com/nfl/2016/05/02/nfl-draft-undrafted-free-agent-signings-steals-sleepers

Ranking NFL teams' offseasons 1-32: Patriots, Broncos stumble (24. Detroit Lions: It’s hard to be optimistic when your best player retires at age 30. However the loss of WR Calvin Johnson may be a blessing in disguise for a team that became way too reliant on the passing game and really needed the infusion of cap space. New GM Bob Quinn earmarked four of his first five draft picks on linemen and could score big on T Taylor Decker and DT A’Shawn Robinson. Newly-signed WR Marvin Jones won’t replace Megatron but costs a lot less.):  http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2016/05/03/ranking-nfl-teams-offseason-grades/83833336/

After strides at Michigan, Rudock gets NFL shot with Lions:  http://sports.yahoo.com/news/strides-michigan-rudock-gets-nfl-shot-lions-222915136--nfl.html

Former EOU star Billingsley headed for Motown (Detroit is a team he and agents Adam Klimek and Dr. Lynn Lashbrook had been in contact with since the University of Nevada pro day in late March that Billingsley attended. The Lions had also put him through a separate private workout.):   http://www.lagrandeobserver.com/news/4276830-151/former-eou-star-headed-for-motown

Lowry grad Jace Billingsley signs free agent contract with Detroit Lions:  http://www.sierrasun.com/news/sports/21865197-113/lowry-grad-jace-billingsley-signs-free-agent-contract

Local Media:

White Pigeon grad Roger Stewart invited to Lions rookie camp:   http://www.sturgisjournal.com/article/20160503/SPORTS/160509695

Stebbins grad DB Ian Wells joins Lions:   http://www.mydaytondailynews.com/news/sports/stebbins-grad-wells-joins-lions/nrGmc/?icmp=daytondaily_internallink_textlink_apr2013_daytondailystubtomydaytondaily_launch

Greg Cosell analyzes Lions' draft picks:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Greg-Cosell-analyzes-Lions-draft-picks/bd7e38ef-1dba-4e77-b76b-f83b72088ab5

NFC NORTH: 2016 NFL Draft breakdown:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/NFC-NORTH-2016-NFL-Draft-breakdown/340f8a32-dc2c-4816-a130-e4f39145521a

Lions rookies select numbers:  http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider-short/article-1/Lions-rookies-select-numbers/43b638ca-018f-4b30-9cc6-9181b4fe2749
 
'Big Daddy' Chase Farris ready to rejoin Decker:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/03/detroit-lions-udfas-chase-farris/83863262/

Seidel: You have to like this Detroit Lions draft:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/jeff-seidel/2016/05/02/detroit-lions-bob-quinn-super-size/83850972/

Will Detroit Lions keep 2 or 3 QBs? 'That's a discussion' for later:  http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/05/03/detroit-lions-backup-qb/83867702/

Detroit Lions waive 2, clearing way for UDFA haul:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_waive_2_clearing.html

Detroit Lions add former New England Patriots college scouting to staff:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_add_former_new_e_1.html

Taylor Decker criticized for his pass blocking, but Lions aren't concerned:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/taylor_decker_criticized_for_h.html

Taylor Decker shares bond, name with cute leopards at Columbus zoo:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/taylor_decker_shares_bond_name.html

Antwione Williams ready to bring hard hat from Georgia Southern to Detroit Lions:  http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/detroit_lions_antwione_william.html

Don't forget about Lions fifth-round pick Joe Dahl:   http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2016/05/dont_forget_about_lions_fifth-.html

Notes: Lions fire two scouts after draft:  http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/5/3/11577214/lions-notes-detroit-fires-two-scouts-after-the-draft

Video:

Local Media:

WATCH: Jennifer Hammond Sits Down with Lions' Graham Glasgow:   http://www.fox2detroit.com/sports/136289718-story