Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 5-31-22

Articles:

O'HARA: Harris wants to give Lions his best wherever he lines up:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-harris-wants-to-give-lions-his-best-wherever-he-lines-up


Figuring out Julian Okwara's role in the new-look Lions defense:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/30/julian-okwara-detroit-lions-defense-role-scheme-change/


2023 NFL Draft:

Northwestern’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects headlined by Peter Skoronski and A.J. Hampton:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/northwesterns-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-headlined-by-peter-skoronski/

Michigan State’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects are led by Jayden Reed:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/michigan-states-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-jayden-reed/

2023 NFL draft film room: Fresno State QB Jake Haener:  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2023-nfl-draft-jake-haener-fresno-state-highlights-film-room-video/


Video:

SportsWorks - 5-29-22 -- Hammer with John Niyo & Mike Stone talking Tigers, Lions, NBA & NHL:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/1075459

Monday, May 30, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Monday 5-30-22

Articles:

What to expect from Lions' defense in Glenn's second year as coordinator:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/what-to-expect-from-lions-defense-in-glenn-s-second-year-as-coordinator



Roundtable: Is Dan Campbell's Best Decision Allowing Ben Johnson to Call Plays?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/is-campbells-best-decision-allowing-ben-johnson-to-call-plays

What David Njoku's New Contract Means for T.J. Hockenson:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-david-njoku-new-deal-means-for-tj-hockenson


Which Detroit Lions players will benefit, struggle under new defensive scheme?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/29/23146390/detroit-lions-players-benefit-struggle-under-new-defensive-scheme


Aidan Hutchinson would love to 'smack' Tom Brady:  https://bucswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/29/nfl-news-tom-brady-aidan-hutchinson-tampa-bay-buccaneers-detroit-lions-draft/

2023 NFL Draft:

Wake Forest’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Sam Hartman and A.T. Perry:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-wake-forest-draft-prospects/

Sunday, May 29, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 5-29-22

Articles:

Barnes looking to stand out in tough competition at LB:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/barnes-looking-to-stand-out-in-tough-competition-at-lb






2023 NFL Draft:

2023 NFL Draft Scouting Notebook: Early prospect grades and five matchups to watch in Week 1:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-may-27/

Syracuse’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Sean Tucker and Garrett Williams:   https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-syracuse-draft-prospects/

NC State’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Devin Leary and Payton Wilson:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-nc-state-draft-prospects/

North Carolina’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Josh Downs and Storm Duck:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-north-carolina-draft-prospects/


Saturday, May 28, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 5-28-22

Articles:

O'HARA: All signs point to Sewell taking a big jump in development:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-all-signs-point-to-sewell-taking-a-big-jump-in-development-decker

Lions’ Dan Campbell: The thought of losing Aaron Glenn was like walking around without any pants on:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/lions-dan-campbell-the-thought-of-losing-aaron-glenn-was-like-walking-around-without-any-pants-on.html

Detroit Lions playing it safe with veteran left tackle Taylor Decker’s foot at OTAs:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/detroit-lions-playing-it-safe-with-veteran-left-tackle-taylor-deckers-foot-at-otas.html



Aaron Glenn on fast track to head coach job, but fixing Lions' defense comes first:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/27/detroit-lions-aaron-glenn-fixing-defense-first/9950754002/









With 'Honeymoon Phase' Over, Aaron Glenn Must Fix Detroit Lions Defense:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/aaron-glenn-must-work-fix-lions-defense


New Orleans Saints Cam Jordan Gives Aidan Hutchinson Advice:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/aidan-hutchinson-gets-advice-cam-jordan

Will Harris: 'I’m Just Doing Whatever I’m Asked':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/will-harris-is-doing-whatever-he-is-asked

T.J. Hockenson to attend “Tight End University” for second year:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/27/23144921/tj-hockenson-attending-tight-end-university-second-year

Lions ‘confident’ in linebacker room due to increased competition:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/27/23144139/detroit-lions-confident-linebacker-room-increased-competition

Virginia Tech writer: Detroit Lions’ rookie TE James Mitchell is a ‘solid overall player’:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/27/23144124/detroit-lions-james-mitchell-solid-overall-player-virginia-tech-podcast-nfl-draft

Most underrated player on NFC teams (Lions - Jonah Jackson:  APY: $1.19 million (rookie contract; 72nd among guards).  The left guard earned a run-blocking grade of 76.4 from PFF last season (ranking 11th of 76 guards). The grade awarded to the Lions' O-line as a whole last season marked them as average (71.4, ranked 16th). Computer vision shows that Jackson's run blocking improved significantly over the course of the season while his pass blocking was drastically better when the Lions were able to use more balanced play-calling (not just the pass).):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-s-most-underappreciated-players-dk-metcalf-david-montgomery-among-nfc-picks

Ranking NFL 2022 'Triplets,' Part I: Bears, Falcons among least inspiring; Saints, Dolphins just below average (Tier 6: Not Awful, But Not Great - 24. Detroit Lions (Avg: 24.2, High: 21, Low: 30).  QB: Jared Goff RB: D'Andre Swift TE: T.J. Hockenson.  The best thing you can say about Goff is that he won't kill your offense. Most of the time. He can keep the trains running on time if everything around him is working perfectly. Given a strong offensive line in Detroit, he likely won't crater the Lions offense. But he won't lift it above where the talent level dictates it should be, either. Swift is electric catching passes out of the backfield, and could do more in the run game if allowed to pull more of the backfield away from Jamaal Williams. Hockenson has yet to have the true breakout season many have been predicting, but he's probably a top-10 pass-catching tight end at the moment.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-nfl-2022-triplets-part-i-bears-falcons-among-least-inspiring-saints-dolphins-just-below-average/

2023 NFL Draft:

Pittsburgh’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Kedon Slovis and Calijah Kancey:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-pittsburgh-prospects/

Podcasts:

Dungeon of Doom podcast: Aidan Hutchinson stars at Lions OTAs, plus other observations:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/dungeon-of-doom-podcast-aidan-hutchinson-stars-at-lions-otas-plus-other-observations.html

VIDEO:


Which assistant coach is going to raise their profile in 2022? 'GMFB':  https://www.detroitlions.com/video/which-assistant-coach-is-going-to-raise-their-profile-in-2022-gmfb

Friday, May 27, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Friday 5-27-22

Articles:

TIM AND MIKE: OTA Week 1 observations:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-and-mike-ota-week-1-observations-hutchinson-swift-okudah

Detroit Lions testing second-year DB Ifeatu Melifonwu at safety to open OTAs:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/detroit-lions-testing-second-year-db-ifeatu-melifonwu-at-safety-to-open-otas.html




What Jared Goff's QB ranking says about Lions' plans moving forward:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/26/detroit-lions-jared-goff-nfl-qb-rankings/9923952002/






Jeff Okudah Participating in Individual Drills, Taylor Decker Held Out:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/dan-campbell-provides-injury-update-okudah-decker

Aaron Glenn: Aidan Hutchinson Has 'Quickness That is Unbelievable':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/aaron-glenn-reviews-aidan-hutchinson-early-play


Fans React to Hockenson Catch: Why Does He Always Have to Fall Down?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/fans-react-hockenson-ota-video


2022 Detroit Lions OTAs Day 3 observations: Aidan Hutchinson makes his presence known:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/26/23143405/2022-detroit-lions-otas-day-3-observations-aidan-hutchinson


Kelvin Sheppard describes Detroit Lions’ changing roles for linebackers, Julian Okwara:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/26/23142643/kelvin-sheppard-describes-detroit-lions-linebackers-changing-roles

Lions LB coach: Malcolm Rodriguez ‘is one of the smarter young players I’ve ever been around’:   https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/26/23142327/detroit-lions-lb-coach-malcolm-rodriguez-smarter-young-players-ever



2023 NFL Draft'

Miami’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Tyler Van Dyke:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/miami-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-tyler-van-dyke/


Video:









Twentyman in the Huddle Episode 3: Kelvin Sheppard breaks down Lions linebacker room:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-in-the-huddle-episode-3-kelvin-sheppard-breaks-down-lions-linebacker-r

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 5-26-22

Articles:

Lions offseason questions: Breakout player:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-offseason-questions-breakout-player-swift-sewell-hockenson


Jameson Williams: What draft experts said about the Lions WR before the draft:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/jameson-williams-scouting-reports-pre-draft-evaluation-detroit-lions/


8 Burning Questions for Detroit Lions ahead of OTAs:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/burning-questions-ahead-of-otas



Comparing the Lions' 2022 and 2020 90-man rosters, Part 1: Offense:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/25/23105639/comparing-detroit-lions-2022-2020-offense-90-man-roster

Report: NFL has taken $7.5M from each team to pay for Rams' relocation settlement:  https://theramswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/24/report-nfl-has-taken-7-5m-from-each-team-to-pay-for-rams-relocation-settlement/

Every NFL team's top-three players entering the 2023 season (Lions (Ragnow, Decker, and Sewell) - The Lions have made it clear that they want to build this roster through the trenches, so it shouldn't surprise that the offensive line is the strength of this roster.  Decker and Sewell profile as one of the better tackle duos in the NFL after Sewell started to settle into the right tackle spot over the second half of his rookie season. Ragnow, meanwhile, is an elite NFL center. He’s improved his overall PFF grade every season in the NFL and has graded above the 90th percentile as a run blocker in gap and zone schemes at center over the past three seasons.  Also considered: TE T.J. Hockenson):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-every-nfl-teams-top-three-players-entering-the-2023-season

Linsey: 2022 NFL center rankings and tiers (3. Frank Ragnow, Detroit Lions:  Ragnow has steadily improved his overall PFF grade every season he’s been in the NFL and was on pace for a career year in 2021 before a Week 4 toe injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season.  The fifth-year center out of Arkansas has been a steady performer in pass protection, but he really separates himself in the run game. Over the last three seasons, Ragnow grades out above the 90th percentile at the position in run-blocking grade in both gap and zone schemes.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-center-rankings-and-tiers-2022

All-Paid Team of Tomorrow: Who'll get the bag next? (TE - ON THE RADAR:  T.J. Hockenson, Detroit Lions: Hockenson made his first Pro Bowl following the 2020 season and was possibly on his way to another before missing the final five games with a hand injury. He had four games with eight-plus grabs in 2021; the only tight end with more was Mark Andrews (six). Hockenson and Kyle Pitts are the only tight ends selected in the top 10 since 2015.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/all-paid-team-of-tomorrow-lamar-jackson-deebo-samuel-nick-bosa-among-players-poi

NFL Divisional Power Rankings: Loaded AFC West even better, Urban Meyer ouster keeps AFC South out of cellar (6. NFC North - I don't believe the Packers are winning another Super Bowl with Aaron Rodgers, I don't believe they will win as many games as they have become accustomed to in recent years, and I'm not sure they are even the best team in this division. That might be the Vikings … but the Vikings ain't winning a Super Bowl, either, and that's what it's all about. If Green Bay is regressing, this feels like the right spot to slot this group. The Lions are still years from competing, but heading in the right direction, and the Bears seem intent on breaking Justin Fields this year and their extended wait before finally hiring a new coach and GM will continue to set the team back in the present and future.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-divisional-power-rankings-loaded-afc-west-even-better-urban-meyer-ouster-keeps-afc-south-out-of-cellar/

NFC North burning questions: How will Rodgers adapt? (Lions: What's going on at QB?  Unlike almost every other team with long-term QB questions, the Lions chose to stand pat this offseason, complete with Jared Goff's $31.15 million price tag. Barring a stark reverse of course, like cutting Goff after June 1 to save $10.65M and trading for an alternative, they're set to enter year two of the Dan Campbell era without taking any real steps toward securing a reliable arm under center. Goff is often serviceable, no doubt, and his offense is underrated, especially with more speed in the lineup via D.J. Chark and Jameson Williams. But what is the end goal here? The Lions are still rebuilding. Even a major leap from their 3-13-1 finish a year ago might not result in a playoff trip. Retaining Goff feels like treading water, even if the rest of the roster is shifting.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfc-north-burning-questions-for-2022-will-justin-fields-overcome-bears-setup-how-will-aaron-rodgers-adapt/

2023 NFL Draft:

Early Top-Five 2023 NFL Draft Quarterback Rankings: Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud lead the way:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-quarterback-rankings-bryce-young-alabama-cj-stroud-ohio-state

2023 NFL Draft breakout candidates at EDGE include Khris Bogle and Durell Nchami:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-breakout-candidates-at-edge-khris-bogle-durell-nchami/

Georgia Tech’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Jeff Sims and Hassan Hall:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-georgia-tech-prospects/

Louisville’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects headlined by Malik Cunningham:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/louisvilles-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-headlined-by-malik-cunningham/


Wednesday, May 25, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 5-25-22

Articles:


Rookie Chase Lucas already an elder statesman in Lions secondary:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/24/rookie-chase-lucas-detroit-lions-secondary/9895408002/


Detroit Lions Rank 14th in Dead Cap Money Owed in 2022:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-2022-dead-money-money-owed-nfl-ranking

'Game manager' Goff ranked behind Mariota, Trubisky, Winston by Chris Simms:  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/jared-goff-ranked-behind-mariota-trubisky-by-chris-simms


Richard Sherman calls Calvin Johnson 'best player I've ever lined up against':  https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/richard-sherman-calvin-johnson-best-player-i-ever-faced

2018 NFL Draft grades for every team (Lions - Best Pick: Frank Ragnow, Worst Pick: Kerryon Johnson, Final Grade: B-.  Ex-general manager Bob Quinn loved low-value positions early in drafts, and 2018 may have been his opus in that regard, as it took him until the fifth round to address a single premium position (quarterback, receiver, tackle, edge, corner). Even though Ragnow turned into one of the best centers in the NFL, the rest of this draft has been a non-factor.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-draft-2018-nfl-draft-grades-for-every-team

2023 NFL Draft:

2023 NFL Draft sleepers at LB include Jalen Graham, Jeremy Banks:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-sleepers-at-lb-include-jalen-graham-jeremy-banks/

2023 NFL Draft film analysis: Tyler Van Dyke, QB, Miami (FL):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-film-analysis-tyler-van-dyke-miami-qb/

Florida State’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Robert Scott Jr. and Akeem Dent:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/florida-states-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-include-robert-scott-jr-and-akeem-dent/

Duke’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include Jalon Calhoun and Shaka Heyward:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-duke-prospects/


Podcast:

The 3 biggest questions the Detroit Lions must answer in 2022:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/24/23139260/detroit-lions-3-biggest-questions-2022-podcast

Tuesday, May 24, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 5-24-22

Articles:

O'HARA: How Lucas' college career helped prepare him for the NFL:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-how-lucas-college-career-helped-prepare-him-for-the-nfl

Former CMU star Kalil Pimpleton flashes playmaking skills in first sessions with Detroit Lions:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/former-cmu-star-kalil-pimpleton-flashes-playmaking-skills-in-first-sessions-with-detroit-lions.html

Peter King has Lions 20th in NFL power rankings: ‘This is one of the most interesting teams in football’:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/peter-king-has-lions-20th-in-nfl-power-rankings-this-is-one-of-the-most-interesting-teams-in-football.html





Could Detroit Lions Be a Sleeper Team to Win NFC North?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/odds-lions-win-nfc-north-2022




2023 NFL Draft:



Clemson’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects include D.J. Uiagalelei:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-clemson-draft-prospects/

Boston College’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects highlighted by Phil Jurkovec:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-boston-college-prospects/

VIDEO:

Peter Schrager's top 5 running backs under 25 (D'Andre Swift is picked as one of the top 5):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/peter-schrager-s-top-5-running-backs-under-25

Chris Simms' Top 40 QB rankings: No. 30 Jared Goff, Detroit Lions:  https://www.nbcsports.com/video/chris-simms-top-40-qb-rankings-no-30-jared-goff-detroit-lions

Monday, May 23, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Monday 5-23-22

Articles:




Chris Long: 'You Can Do a Lot of Stuff with Aidan Hutchinson':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/chris-long-says-you-can-do-a-lot-with-hutchinson

Podcast:

Detroit Lions mailbag: Can Jared Goff recapture Rams magic with improved weapons?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/22/23136694/detroit-lions-mailbag-jared-goff-recapture-magic-weapons-rams-podcast

VIDEO: 

Lions Aidan Hutchinson, Jameson Williams soak in NFLPA Rookie Premiere:  https://www.wxyz.com/sports/video-lions-aidan-hutchinson-jameson-williams-soak-in-nflpa-rookie-premiere

Sunday, May 22, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 5-22-22

Articles:

Paschal sees himself as a 'big defensive end' on Lions' d-line:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/paschal-sees-himself-as-a-big-defensive-end-on-lions-d-line

Mailbag: What happens if the Lions win 'too many games' in 2023?:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/21/detroit-lions-optimism-dan-campbell-2023-draft/9840103002/


2022 Stat Prediction for Jameson Williams:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/stat-prediction-jameson-williams

3 Ways Lions Can Best Utilize Running Backs in 2022:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ways-lions-best-utilize-running-backs-2022


Ranking 2022 NFL offenses: A new team takes the crown after Chiefs, Packers trade star WRs (25. Lions):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-2022-nfl-offenses-a-new-team-takes-the-crown-after-chiefs-packers-trade-star-wrs/

Who'll have a top-10 defense? Rankings (Very Unlikely - Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Giants, New York Jets, Seattle Seahawks.  None of these teams finished last season in the top half of the league in either EPA per play or Football Outsiders' DVOA. Only the Seahawks, Giants, Texans, and Falcons finished above-average in any of yards per play (Seattle, Giants), points per drive (Seattle), opponent's turnover rate (Giants, Houston, Atlanta), and the share of opponent drives that ended in a touchdown or field goal (Seattle). None of them ranked better than 10th in any of those categories.   The most notable talent additions for any of these teams are rookies: Travon Walker in Jacksonville, Aidan Hutchinson in Detroit, and Sauce Gardner and Kayvon Thibodeaux in New York. Even if those players contribute at a high level right away, it seems unlikely to make up the difference between where these teams stood, and the top 10 in the NFL. It's possible some of these teams could work their way to slightly below-average on defense rather than awful, but even above-average might be a bit of a stretch.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-2022-nfl-defenses-rams-bills-saints-most-likely-units-to-crack-the-top-10/

Ranking Defensive ROY hopefuls (2. Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Lions:  Hutchinson had the finest arsenal of pass-rush moves -- including a J.J. Wattian swim -- and he's nearly 6-7 with brute speed-to-power conversion. His motor never stops, either, and the Lions desperately needed an alpha rusher up front. Now they have it.   There's some concern with Hutchinson's debut professional season that he'll be asked to be "the guy" instantly. And he probably will be. But it's not as if Detroit has no other pass-rushing threats. Former first-round pick Charles Harris -- who's only 27 -- had 7.5 sacks and 52 pressures in 2021. The Okwara brothers are long, athletic, relentless rushers who, when healthy, are challenging matchups, and the Lions selected high-energy disruptor Josh Paschal from Kentucky in the third round. Hutchinson will have help en route to a monster rookie season on an upstart Lions club.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-the-2022-nfl-defensive-rookie-of-the-year-candidates-kayvon-thibodeaux-aidan-hutchinson-will-battle/

2023 NFL Draft:

Massive University of Houston offensive tackle Patrick Paul has equally high NFL ambitions, ‘dog mentality’:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/houston-offensive-tackle-patrick-paul-has-equally-high-nfl-ambitions-dog-mentality/

2023 NFL Draft Scouting Notebook: The wide receiver class takes shape with Jordan Addison’s transfer to USC:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-may-20/

Saturday, May 21, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 5-21-22

Articles:

10 QUESTIONS WITH TWENTYMAN: Which rookie has the best chance to make an immediate impact?:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/which-rookie-has-the-best-chance-to-make-an-impact-hutchinson-williams

Lions announce 2022 preseason schedule dates and game times:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-announce-2022-preseason-schedule-dates-and-game-times

Breaking down Jameson Williams, Lions' first-round draft pick: A film review:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/20/breaking-down-jameson-williams-detroit-lions-first-round-draft-pick/9835201002/


Lions rank in NFL's middle in available salary cap room for 2022:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/20/detroit-lions-2022-nfl-salary-cap-available-cap-room/

Burning Question: How Will Lions Benefit from EDGE Depth?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/how-lions-benefit-edge-rusher-depth-2022-roster

Pro Football Network Ranks Jared Goff as Bottom-Tier QB:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/goff-ranked-bottom-tier-qb




Former NFL players scout Lions WR Jameson Williams: He’s a ‘matchup nightmare’:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/20/23131872/former-nfl-players-scout-detroit-lions-jameson-williams-matchup-nightmare

Day 3 rookies to Year 1 starters? (11. Malcolm Rodriguez:  Drafted: Round 6, 188th overall - Rodriguez's size (5-foot-11, 232 pounds) has caused him to be overlooked his entire football career. The Lions have veterans Alex Anzalone and Jarrad Davis (a former first-round pick by Detroit brought back after one year with the Jets), but neither were stars last season. Second-year player Derrick Barnes came on a bit at the end of 2021, but I won't ignore the productive, athletic and instinctive Rodriguez's chances at making his presence felt between the tackles as a rookie.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-season-day-3-rookies-who-could-compete-for-starter-snaps-in-year-1

Friday, May 20, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Friday 5-20-22

Articles:

What to expect from Lions' offense under Ben Johnson:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/what-to-expect-from-lions-offense-under-ben-johnson-chark-williams

Detroit Lions DC Aaron Glenn gets another push toward landing head-coaching job:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/lions-aaron-glenn-ray-agnew-chosen-for-new-nfl-accelerator-program.html



Kerby Joseph Aims to 'Always Be on the Field' for Lions' Defense:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/kerby-joseph-aims-to-always-be-on-field

T.J. Lang Explains One Good Thing Matt Patricia Did for Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/tj-lang-defends-matt-patricia-practice-outdoors

Former NFL CB Kyle Wilson: Jameson Williams Is 'Matchup Nightmare':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/onepride-plus/jameson-williams-scouting-report-kyle-wilson

Biggest priority for 16 NFC teams: Best fit for Baker? (Top priority: Stay loose, stay sexy - Cornerback could use help, unless Jeff Okudah decides to fulfill his draft pedigree. Safety, too. Depth issues exist behind what should be an excellent offensive line. The playful Lions have their share of needs, but I'll point to something more ethereal: culture. Record aside, there's no question Dan Campbell's first season as head coach was enjoyable down the stretch and successful in partially rebranding a team eternally starring as a bowl of vanilla ice cream. With Hard Knocks on the horizon, a promising rookie class and better weapons around Jared Goff, the Lions are morphing into a buzzy pick for the NFL's most lovable squad. Don't do anything to mess it up.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/biggest-remaining-offseason-priority-for-each-nfc-team-can-49ers-placate-deebo-s

Regrading the 2019 NFL Draft: Bill Belichick goes from perfect to failure, 49ers improve from 'C' to 'A' (Detroit Lions - 2019 Grade: C.  The Skinny: They had eight picks, but only two are penciled in as starters this year. They are first-round tight end T.J. Hockenson and fourth-round corner Amani Oruwariye. The rest of the draft produced little help. Second-round linebacker Jahlani Tavai started 16 games his first two seasons, but was traded to the Patriots last year.  How I did: I said they got great value with Oruwariye, and they have. I didn't like the pick of defensive lineman Austin Bryant in the fourth, but did like Hockenson. I also wondered if it was a need pick with them badly searching for edge-rush help with Brian Burns, Montez Sweat and others on the board.   New Grade: C):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/regrading-the-2019-nfl-draft-bill-belichick-goes-from-perfect-to-failure-49ers-improve-from-c-to-a/

1 obvious flaw each NFL team is now facing after the 2022 draft (Detroit Lions: Jared Goff
(2021 record: 3-13-1) - Goff has regressed mightily over a short time range, falling from high-impact passer to checkdown machine unwilling to take shots downfield. His 6.4 air yards per pass were worst in the league — even lower than crisis-stage Ben Roethlisberger. Detroit improved his target list by signing DJ Chark and drafting Alabama star Jameson Williams this spring. We’ll see if that makes an appreciable difference or if Goff remains a broken toy.):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-season-draft-one-flaw-every-team-patriots-cowboys-bears-rams

Every team's biggest steal in the 2022 NFL draft (Detroit Lions - S Kerby Joseph, 3rd Round, No. 97 overall):  https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-steals-2022-malik-willis-desmond-ridder-sam-howell-matt-corral/

2023 NFL Draft:

Interior defensive linemen to watch for the 2023 NFL draft:  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/watch-list-interior-defensive-linemen-2023-nfl-draft/

Video:

Twentyman in the Huddle Episode 2: Recapping Detroit Lions rookie minicamp:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-in-the-huddle-episode-2-recapping-detroit-lions-rookie-minicamp

Podcast:

Detroit Lions Podcast: Breaking down rookie minicamp and viewer mailbag:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/19/detroit-lions-podcast-breaking-down-rookie-minicamp-and-viewer-mailbag/

Thursday, May 19, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 5-19-22

Articles

Lions offseason questions: Games to watch:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-offseason-questions-games-to-watch-packers-bills-eagles


Jared Goff was one of the NFL's best passers vs. the blitz in 2021:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/18/jared-goff-2021-stats-qb-rating-vs-blitz-nfl-best/



Dan Campbell Reveals First Impression of LB Malcolm Rodriguez:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/campbell-first-impression-lb-rodriguez

Jared Goff Has Memorable 'Hard Knocks' Scene He'd Like to Forget:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jared-goff-hbo-hard-knocks-blooper





Quarterback rankings for top 32 NFL QBs heading into 2022 led by Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen (29. Jared Goff):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-32-nfl-quarterbacks/

Highest-paid NFL players and biggest contracts heading into the 2022 season (4.  Jared Goff, DET | $31.15 million - There’s a good chance this is the last time we ever see Jared Goff on this list of highest-paid NFL players. Next year, the Lions can release him with just $10 million in dead money and more than $20 million in cap savings. However, with all but $650,000 of his 2022 salary and roster bonus guaranteed, the Lions have very few options to reduce this cap number in the near term. Goff’s combined $26.15 million in salary and roster bonus will see him take home the 14th-most cash of any NFL player this year.  Detroit could look to restructure the deal and move a portion of the salary and roster bonus into a signing bonus. However, that would only increase the cost of releasing Goff next year. The Lions will likely be searching for their quarterback of the future in the 2023 NFL Draft, so they don’t want to tie themselves to Goff any longer than required.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/highest-paid-nfl-players/

Favorites for NFL Defensive, Offensive Rookie of the Year (TOP DEFENSIVE ROOKIE OF THE YEAR CANDIDATES - Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Detroit Lions:  The most pro-ready player in this draft class, Hutchinson would have made this list on talent alone, but there are two other factors that would-be bettors should take into consideration. For one, the Lions are desperate for help with their pass rush, and Hutchinson will deservedly earn plenty of credit when Detroit takes a big jump in sacks this season. Secondly, the NFC North is hardly a who’s who of dominant offensive tackles, giving Hutchinson that much more of an opportunity to pad his statistics.):  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/favorites-for-nfl-defensive-offensive-rookie-of-the-year

Regrading the 2021 NFL Draft classes: Dallas Cowboys, Miami Dolphins among biggest risers (Initial Draft Grade: A-, 1-year Re-Grade: A.  No team got more snaps out of its rookie class than the Detroit Lions. That being said, there are still a good deal of question marks in the mix. That doesn’t include Penei Sewell nor Amon-Ra St. Brown, though. Sewell is going to be a stud at right tackle and quite literally already was down the stretch in 2021. He was the ninth-highest-graded tackle in the league from Week 6 on. St. Brown is going to be a reliable slot for the foreseeable future after hauling in eight-plus catches in each of his final six games last season.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-regrading-2021-nfl-draft-classes-miami-dolphins-dallas-cowboys#DET

2023 NFL Draft:

2023 NFL Draft breakout candidates at LB sees Justin Flowe nearing emergence:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-breakout-candidates-at-lb-justin-flowe-nearing-emergence/

C.J. Stroud is the early top QB in the 2023 NFL Draft:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/c-j-stroud-the-early-top-qb-in-the-2023-nfl-draft/


Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 5-18-22

Articles:

Houston looking to make an impact wherever he lines up:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/houston-looking-to-make-an-impact-wherever-he-lines-up

Vikings GM has no regrets about draft-day trade that led to Lions landing Jameson Williams:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/vikings-gm-has-no-regrets-about-draft-day-trade-that-led-to-lions-landing-jameson-williams.html

Lions' Goff has been on NFL reality shows. Here's his 'Hard Knocks' advice:  https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/17/detroit-lions-jared-goff-hard-knocks/9804786002/




Lions schedule: Too-early game-by-game predictions for all 17 games:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-schedule-2022-game-by-game-predictions-wins-losses/

Another player the Lions waived has been claimed by a different team:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/17/jessie-lemonier-waiver-claim-arizona-cardinals-ex-detroit-lions/

Penei Sewell, Amon-Ra St. Brown Snubbed From PFF List:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/st-brown-sewell-snubbed-pff-list




NFC North projected starters: Do Packers need OBJ? (Head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes had a vision when they took this team over. They wanted to be deep up front on both sides of the ball and prized versatility on defense. They have made enormous strides in two offseasons.
Josh Reynolds went from the waiver wire to a top target last season in a few weeks. Once No. 12 overall pick Jameson Williams returns from his torn ACL, Reynolds should be WR4 in Detroit. That shows the quick growth in this unit.  Amon-Ra St. Brown was one of the better slot receivers in football as a rookie. He thrives running the timing routes over the middle that Jared Goff likes to throw best.
Sewell is sticking at right tackle for this season after improving throughout his rookie year. If Vaitai stays healthy, this could be a top-three offensive line, making everyone around them look better.  While the Lions might have uncertainty on defense, they make for up it in flexibility. The depth of the defensive line stands out the most, but defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn can shapeshift at every position group depending on the down, distance and opponent.  The defensive line could be special. Here are some players that didn't even crack the group above: Michael Brockers, second-round pick Joshua Pascal, promising second-year pro Levi Onwuzurike and Romeo Okwara's brother, Julian, who improved under Glenn last year.  To put it another way: Aidan Hutchinson does not need to carry the group. He'll have plenty of help.  The weakness of the defense is off-ball linebacker. Alex Anzalone played a role in giving up a lot of big plays last year. Second-year pro Derrick Barnes will get plenty of snaps.  Jeff Okudah is a wild card. Heading into his third year, there's no doubt that 2019 fifth-round pick Amani Oruwariye is a more reliable player than Okudah, who was taken No. 3 overall in 2020. Okudah could be anywhere from an outside starter to nickel back to benched.  The lack of additions at cornerback in the draft could be a show of confidence in defensive backs/pass game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant, who is one of the best at what he does. The Lions could play with three safeties plenty, with DeShon Elliott an underrated free-agent pickup and third-round rookie Kerby Joseph in the mix.  The Lions still don't have a long-term quarterback, but this roster is so much better than when Campbell and Holmes arrived. They can contend for a playoff spot now and be ready for the next step in 2023.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/nfc-north-projected-starters-for-2022-nfl-season-receiver-wide-open-for-packers-

2022 NFL Quarterback Tiers (TIER D: PLAY-ACTION MERCHANTS — PROPPED UP BY SCHEME - 4. JARED GOFF, DETROIT LIONS
Garoppolo and Goff are also in the same tier but because Goff’s record in years where Sean McVay is not his head coach and playcaller is horrendous, the 49ers quarterback — who may not even start this year — is ahead. Goff’s WAR per season with McVay was 2.41, but it's called to 0.21 since he left Los Angeles.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2022-quarterback-tiers-seth-galina

2023 NFL Draft:


2023 NFL Draft sleepers at DB highlighted by South Carolina’s Cam Smith:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-sleepers-at-db-south-carolinas-cam-smith-has-first-round-potential/

2023 NFL Draft Breakout Candidates at DB: D.J. Graham, Antonio Johnson lead the way:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-breakout-candidates-at-db-d-j-graham-antonio-johnson-lead-the-way/




Podcast:

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 5-17-22

Articles:

O'HARA: What we learned from rookie minicamp:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-what-we-learned-from-rookie-minicamp-williams-mitchell-hutchinson

Ex-Georgia OLB Natrez Patrick earns spot on Lions roster after rookie minicamp:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/ex-georgia-olb-natrez-patrick-earns-spot-on-lions-roster-after-rookie-minicamp.html

Lions LB Rodriguez brings skill set molded by playing safety, wrestling:  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/05/16/detroit-lions-lb-rodriguez-brings-skill-set-molded-playing-safety-wrestling/9792968002/



Dan Campbell's Message to Lions' Rookies: 'Grow Up':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/dan-campbell-message-to-rookies-revealed

Jeff Okudah participating—on some level—at Detroit Lions offseason workouts:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/16/23076715/jeff-okudah-participating-detroit-lions-offseason-workouts



Grading all 32 NFL offseasons (DETROIT LIONS (Offseason Grade: A-.  Free Agency Grade: Above Average.  Draft Grade: A+):  The only thing the Lions failed to do this offseason was add a clear franchise quarterback for the future, but in the multi-year rebuild project they have undertaken, there’s no guarantee that was ever planned at this stage, as it could have always been planned to come in Year 3 when everything else is already in place.  In free agency, D.J. Chark represents an excellent example of the kind of gamble teams should take at receiver. He has rare speed and physical tools but hasn’t put it all together yet. The Lions continued to add perimeter speed in the draft by trading up for Jameson Williams, whose game speed is on another level.  Landing Aidan Hutchinson with the No. 2 overall pick is a gift the Lions must have thought was an improbable result for most of the process. Hutchinson may not have quite the same theoretical upside as Travon Walker, but he has been a far better player to date and likely brings a much higher floor to the table. Hutchinson can be a cornerstone for a Lions defense that has already added a lot of young talent.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-grading-all-32-nfl-offseasons

22-man starter projections for all 32 NFL teams (The Lions have added some much-needed verticality to their offense with the Jameson Williams and D.J. Chark additions. No team threw the ball shorter downfield on average (6.8 yards) than the Lions did in 2021.   They’ll also have some options to turn to on the edge with Aidan Hutchinson, Romeo and Julian Okwara, Charles Harris and Josh Paschal now in the fold. Outside of quarterback, the secondary is the biggest question mark on this team.   Most interesting position battle: Cornerback
Amani Oruwariye is the closest thing that Detroit has to a locked-in starter after he allowed just a 60.2 passer rating on throws into his coverage in 2021, but that number is a little bit deceiving when compared to a 60.3 PFF coverage grade.  Jeffrey Okudah and free-agent acquisition Mike Hughes will compete for the other starting job on the outside. Hughes played well in that role for the Chiefs last season (72.2 PFF coverage grade), but the Lions will be hoping that a healthy Okudah looks more like the prospect they drafted inside the top five of the 2020 NFL Draft. One of them could kick inside to nickel, or Detroit could opt to keep Parker there after he carved out a role as an undrafted free agent last season.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-22-man-starter-projections-all-32-nfl-teams-2022-nfl-season#DET

2023 NFL Draft:


Video:

Watch: How legend Deion Sanders convinced Lions EDGE James Houston to switch positions at Jackson State and make the NFL:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/05/16/detroit-lions-james-houston-position-change-jackson-state-deion-sanders-coaching-helps-make-the-nfl/

Monday, May 16, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Monday 5-16-22

Articles:

Pair of rookie linebackers looking to stick with Detroit Lions after interesting paths to NFL:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/05/pair-of-rookie-linebackers-looking-to-stick-with-detroit-lions-after-interesting-paths-to-nfl.html

Rodriguez wants to start on special teams, work his way up to a role on defense:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/rodriguez-wants-to-start-on-special-teams-work-his-way-up-to-a-role-on-defense




Roundtable: When Should Jameson Williams Make Debut for Lions?:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/when-should-jameson-williams-make-debut-for-lions

Notebook: Aidan Hutchinson and Josh Paschal Bonding Early in Minicamp:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/aidan-hutchinson-and-josh-paschal-bonding-early-in-minicamp


Brad Holmes: Jared Goff Has Proven This Offseason 'He's the Guy':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/brad-holmes-tells-rich-eisen-jared-goff-has-proven-himself

Dan Campbell promises Lions offense will have more tempo in and out of the huddle:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/5/15/23073168/detroit-lions-offense-more-tempo-huddle-2022-dan-campbell

2023 NFL Draft:


Konata Mumpfield poses a problem as a pass catcher for Pittsburgh in the 2023 NFL Draft:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/konata-mumpfield-pitt-nfl-draft-2023/

VIDEO:

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