Thursday, June 30, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 6-30-22

Articles:

By the numbers: Lions 2022 draft class:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/by-the-numbers-lions-2022-draft-class-hutchinson-williams-paschal


Thibodeaux Expected to Produce More Than Hutchinson in 2022:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/thibodeaux-expected-to-produce-more-hutchinson

Majority of Lions fans believe team will win at least 4 division games in 2022:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/29/23187849/detroit-lions-divisional-game-record-prediction-4-games-poll


2022 NFC North GM Rankings (2. Brad Holmes:  This is where I have Holmes landing in my NFC North GM rankings.  Surprisingly enough, Holmes is now the second-longest-tenured GM in the division, having been hired by the Lions as Bob Quinn's replacement in January of 2021. He got to business right away, too, by trading away franchise icon Matthew Stafford to Holmes' former team, the Los Angeles Rams, for Jared Goff, two first-round picks and a third-rounder.  He hasn't stopped wheeling and dealing since, having just completed an NFL Draft in which he traded up 20 spots to land Alabama wideout Jameson Williams at No. 12. And, that came after picking Michigan standout pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson at No. 2 overall.  Holmes has made it a point of emphasis to build through the draft, and has come away with solid drafts in his first two years as general manager. Last year's first-rounder Penei Sewell, along with Hutchinson and Williams, could end up being franchise cornerstones for the Lions for years to come.  If Holmes ends up building Detroit into a winner, he could very well become the top NFC North GM.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/2022-nfc-north-gm-rankings

2022 NFL Preview: Lions started last season miserably but started to come around late:  https://sports.yahoo.com/2022-nfl-preview-lions-started-last-season-miserably-but-started-to-come-around-late-120116394.html

Reuter's '22 All-Rookie defense (Edge Aidan Hutchinson (Drafted: Round 1, No. 2 overall):  I expect the Lions to use Hutchinson in multiple alignments, whether it’s standing up on the edge, playing with his hand on the turf outside or kicking inside on obvious passing downs. Even if he’s not posting huge numbers right off the bat, Hutchinson will gain traction as the year goes on and make life very difficult for opposing offenses.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/projecting-the-2022-defensive-specialist-all-rookie-team-sauce-gardner-aidan-hut

One trade or free agent acquisition for all 32 NFL teams before 2022 training camp (DETROIT LIONS: SIGN CB JACKRABBIT JENKINS - The Lions have young cornerbacks with potential in Jeff Okudah, Jerry Jacobs and Amani Oruwariye, but Okudah is coming off a torn Achilles and Jacobs tore his ACL in December. Jenkins is still a solid starting cornerback at 33 years old.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-one-trade-free-agent-acquisition-all-32-teams-training-camp-2022

Redrafting the 2021 NFL Draft: Mac Jones to the San Francisco 49ers, Atlanta Falcons nab Micah Parsons (7. DETROIT LIONS: OT PENEI SEWELL (Original Pick: OT PENEI SEWELL):  Sewell was the best tackle prospect to enter the draft in a while, and he didn’t do anything to suggest he will fail to live up to that in the NFL. After some preseason struggles at right tackle, Sewell had to flip back to the left side to cover for an injured Taylor Decker before moving back to the right side after Decker’s return. He performed well at both tackle spots, dominating in the run game and holding up well enough in pass protection. The Lions would be tempted by Waddle, but they’d stick with Sewell.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-redrafting-2021-nfl-draft-class-mac-jones-micah-parsons

Biggest remaining team needs in the NFC from the Cardinals to the Commanders (Detroit Lions: Offensive line depth - Solution: Sign Daryl Williams.  The Lions were among the most injured teams in the NFL last season, and that bad luck involved the offensive line, where center Frank Ragnow and left tackle Taylor Decker combined to miss 21 games. Evan Brown proved himself a capable replacement for Ragnow at the pivot, but Detroit needs more reserve options elsewhere along the line.  Enter Williams, who can play any position up front except for center. He started 33 consecutive games for the Bills over the past two years, splitting his time between right tackle and right guard as needed. That versatility would make Williams the ideal sixth lineman for the Lions.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/biggest-remaining-team-needs-in-the-nfc-from-the-cardinals-to-the-commanders/

2023 NFL Draft:

Oregon’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Noah Sewell, Justin Flowe:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/oregons-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-noah-sewell-justin-flowe/
Posted by LionsFan at 6:49 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, June 29, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 6-29-22

Articles:

GET TO KNOW: Defensive end Josh Paschal:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/get-to-know-defensive-end-josh-paschal




Detroit Lions fans believe Jeff Okudah will have biggest bounceback year of injured players:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/28/23186723/detroit-lions-fans-believe-jeff-okudah-biggest-bounceback-year-injured-players

Lions DB coach Aubrey Pleasant makes The Athletic’s ‘40 under 40’ list:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/28/23186360/lions-db-coach-aubrey-pleasant-makes-athletics-40-under-40-list

2022 NFL linebacker unit rankings: San Francisco 49ers claim the top spot, Seattle Seahawks crack the top 10 (28. DETROIT LIONS:  Alex Anzalone and Chris Board are two depth players who start for the Lions. Anzalone has always shown promise but is probably better coming off the bench, especially after finishing with a bottom-10 overall grade among 94 qualifying linebackers in 2021.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-linebacker-unit-rankings-2022-san-francisco-49ers-seattle-seahawks

2023 NFL Draft:

College Football: NC State QB Devin Leary is ready to make his claim as the top quarterback in the ACC:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-n-c-state-qb-devin-leary-top-quarterback-acc-2022

Early 2023 NFL Draft Safety Rankings: Texas A&M's Antonio Johnson comes in at No. 1:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-safety-rankings

USC’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Jordan Addison, Travis Dye:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/uscs-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-jordan-addison-travis-dye/

Top 10 defensive tackles in the 2023 NFL Draft include Bryan Bresee and Jalen Carter:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-10-defensive-tackles-in-the-2023-nfl-draft-include-bryan-bresee-and-jalen-carter/
Posted by LionsFan at 4:13 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, June 28, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 6-28-22

Articles:

O'HARA: What we learned from Lions offseason training program:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/what-we-learned-from-lions-offseason-training-program-goff-mcneill-hutchinson

Betting odds have Lions head coach Dan Campbell as one of the most likely to be fired first this season:  https://www.mlive.com/betting/2022/06/betting-odds-have-lions-head-coach-dan-campbell-as-one-of-the-most-likely-to-be-fired-first-this-season.html


Lions Confident Backup Quarterbacks 'Would Do Just Fine' Stepping In:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-confident-backup-qb-can-step-in-if-goff-injured


Lions Have Not Had Winning Season Since 2017:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-last-winning-season-back-in-2017

2022 Detroit Lions roster preview: Can Brock Wright be the team’s TE2?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/27/23184570/2022-detroit-lions-roster-preview-brock-wright-tight-end

Top NFL backup quarterbacks 2022: Where Colts’ Nick Foles, Commanders’ Taylor Heinicke, and others rank (30.  Tim Boyle, Detroit Lions:  Boyle was asked to start three games last season, and the results were rough. While he did show some flashes of competence, the Lions can’t afford to have Jared Goff go down again this year. The previous sentence explains why Boyle is this low.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-nfl-backup-quarterbacks-2022/2/

2022 NFL secondary rankings: Baltimore Ravens, Tampa Bay Buccaneers take top spots (TIER 4: SERIOUS FLAWS - 25. DETROIT LIONS (CB: Jeff Okudah, CB: Amani Oruwariye, NCB: Mike Hughes, S: DeShon Elliott, S: Tracy Walker):  A good deal of this ranking hinges on Jeff Okudah looking more like the player who ranked fourth on PFF’s draft board back in 2020 and less like the one who’s allowed a career 121.8 passer rating into his coverage. The good news is that he’s still young, having turned 23 earlier this year.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-secondary-rankings-tiers-2022

SMU’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Rashee Rice, Jaylon Thomas:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/smus-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-rashee-rice-jaylon-thomas/

Houston’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Nathaniel Dell, Derek Parish:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/houstons-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-nathaniel-dell-derek-parish/
Posted by LionsFan at 4:15 AM 0 comments

Monday, June 27, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Monday 6-27-22

Articles:


Lions must lower the opposing QB Rating against the Detroit defense in 2022:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/26/lions-must-lower-the-opposing-qb-rating-against-the-detroit-defense-in-2022/


What Can Detroit Lions Expect from TE James Mitchell:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-lions-can-expect-james-mitchell

NFL offensive line rankings 2022: Eagles, Buccaneers, and Chiefs have the best front fives in football (7. Detroit Lions:  The Lions are building a roster that will be ready-made for a young quarterback as early as 2023, and there are few ways to make a rookie signal-caller more comfortable than by giving him a secure offensive line. Detroit’s front has an extremely high floor, and Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow have star potential. They need more depth, but this OL is on the ascent.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-offensive-line-rankings-2022/

2023 NFL Draft:

Cincinnati’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Ivan and Deshawn Pace, Josh Whyle:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cincinnatis-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-ivan-and-deshawn-pace-josh-whyle/

Podcast:

Ask POD: What are the benefits of Detroit Lions keeping 2 vs. 3 quarterbacks?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/26/23183722/ask-pod-detroit-lions-backup-quarterback-two-three-roster-spots-mailbag
Posted by LionsFan at 4:21 AM 0 comments

Sunday, June 26, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 6-26-22

Articles:

NFC NORTH: 3 storylines to watch for each team:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/nfc-north-3-storylines-to-watch-for-each-team-goff-ragnow-sewell




Ranking the Top 4 NFC North Cornerbacks (4. Amani Oruwariye, Lions:  After learning to read QBs in coverage better in 2021 than he did in his two previous seasons, his effectiveness in coverage drastically improved.  Oruwariye put up six interceptions and 11 passes defensed last season.  To put that into perspective, in the two seasons prior to 2021, Oruwariye had three combined interceptions and 10 passes defensed.  While the thought was that 2020 first-round pick Jeff Okudah was going to become Detroit’s premier cornerback, it actually has become Oruwariye instead.  This fifth-round pick, out of Penn State, in 2019 has become the Lions’ top cover man, and he is on the brink of gaining the prestigious label of being a shutdown corner.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ranking-top-4-nfc-north-cornerbacks

LIONS' AIDAN HUTCHINSON CONTINUES TO IMPRESS, IS 'ALL BUSINESS':  https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/lions-aidan-hutchinson-continues-to-impress-is-all-business
Posted by LionsFan at 4:34 AM 0 comments

Saturday, June 25, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 6-25-22

Articles:

TWENTYMAN: 5 numbers to keep up:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-5-numbers-to-keep-up-goff-swift-stbrown-raymond

'He's been all business': Aidan Hutchinson impressing Detroit Lions teammates, coaches already:  https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/38578/hes-been-all-business-aidan-hutchinson-impressing-detroit-lions-teammates-coaches


3 Lions Players Entering Make-or-Break Seasons:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/3-lions-entering-make-or-break-seasons

Lions' Projected 2022 53-Man Roster Post Minicamp:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-projected-53-man-roster

Five teams that will improve most in wins in 2022 (2.  Detroit Lions - 2021 record: 3-13-1 (Net improvement: Five wins):  They were winless through 11 games but finished 3-3 down the stretch. That, as much as anything, speaks to optimism for them taking a giant stride toward relevancy. Dan Campbell instilled a culture of competitive character in his first season, meaning the Lions continued to play hard even when there was nothing to play for. That might sound like a cliché, but it's proven to be the foundation on which turnarounds are built. Another is solid quarterback play, which, to the uninformed, is something the Lions got from Jared Goff over his final five starts, when he threw for 11 touchdowns against two interceptions and had a 107.1 passer rating. His performance caused Detroit to go from thinking about possible replacements at the position to passing on the opportunity to pursue someone through trade, free agency or the draft. If Goff builds on that finish, there is reason to believe the Lions can surprise people. It should help not only that the offense got a proven big-play receiver in Jameson Williams, one of two first-round draft picks, though he still is recovering from a late-season knee injury, but also that the defense added potentially impactful pieces. Detroit drafted pass rushers in each of the first two rounds in Aidan Hutchinson and Josh Paschal, who are being counted on to upgrade a unit that had fewer sacks than all but two teams last season. In the secondary, the Lions are holding their collective breath that Jeff Okudah, the third pick of the 2020 draft, will live up to expectations after his season was cut short by an Achilles injury. There is depth this time around, as Mike Hughes was brought in via free agency and Kerby Joseph was acquired in the draft. The Lions have not had a winning season since 2017, but don't be shocked if they make a run at ending that streak.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/five-nfl-teams-that-will-improve-the-most-in-wins-in-2022-broncos-lead-the-pack

Ranking every division by QB: NFC West not in top 2 (4. NFC North (Chicago Bears: Justin Fields, Detroit Lions: Jared Goff, Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers, Minnesota Vikings: Kirk Cousins):  Coming off back-to-back MVP awards (giving him four in his already legendary career), Rodgers finally put the question of his long-term future to rest, inking a four-year extension in Green Bay that will pay him $150.8 million over the next three years. He remains the best in the business at 38 years old, capable of carrying this (Davante Adams-less) Packers squad on his back. Cousins is a really good player who will bounce between, say, eighth and 16th in a ranking of the best QBs over the course of a season; he's in the neighborhood of performing like a franchise quarterback, albeit on the bottom of the scale. That said, I think new coach and play-caller Kevin O'Connell, who knows him from their time together in Washington, will help Cousins greatly. Goff is solid (19:8 TD-to-INT ratio and 91.5 passer rating last season) and seems to be respected in Detroit heading into his second season with the franchise. And I love Fields' talent and savvy. I'm just worried about the impact of the bumpy nature of Matt Nagy's final season in Chicago on Fields, as well as the dearth of reliable talent around Fields on the roster heading into Year 2 of his NFL career.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/ranking-the-eight-nfl-divisions-by-quarterback-afc-west-stuffed-with-stars-afc-n

Ranking the best backup NFL QBs of 2022: 49ers' Jimmy Garoppolo headlines list of veteran No. 2s (The leftovers
These guys make up the majority of the backup QBs in the NFL and, to be frank, aren't separated by much. Sure, you can make the case for one over the other, but at the end of the day, you're especially hopeful they don't have to see extended action. They are listed roughly in order of preference:  Colt McCoy (Cardinals), Drew Lock/Geno Smith (Seahawks), Chad Henne (Chiefs), Chase Daniel (Chargers), C.J. Beathard (Jaguars), Brandon Allen (Bengals), Josh Johnson/Brett Rypien (Broncos), Kyle Allen (Texans), Blaine Gabbert (Buccaneers), Trevor Siemian (Bears), Brian Hoyer (Patriots), Joe Flacco (Jets), Jarrett Stidham (Raiders), Cooper Rush (Cowboys), John Wolford (Rams), Sean Mannion (Vikings), David Blough (Lions)):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-the-best-backup-nfl-qbs-of-2022-49ers-jimmy-garoppolo-headlines-list-of-veteran-no-2s/

One rookie from each NFL team who will surprise in 2022 (Lions: S Kerby Joseph - Most of the attention goes to the two first-rounders, EDGE Aidan Hutchinson and WR Jameson Williams. But a Day 2 pick, safety Kerby Joseph, could wind up playing more than either premium pick. Joseph brings playmaking and coverage skills to a secondary in desperate need of each. A third-round pick from Illinois, Joseph is an instant starter and immediate upgrade at what was the weakest position on the entire team. He’ll get every chance to show just how well his length and quickness translate to the NFL. He and holdover Tracy Walker offer hope for a significant uptick in safety play in Detroit.  – Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire):  https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-draft-rookie-surprise-2022-players-each-team/

2023 NFL Draft:

Early 2023 NFL Draft Cornerback Rankings: Georgia's Kelee Ringo and Syracuse's Garrett Williams top the list:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-cornerback-rankings-georgia-kelee-ringo-and-syracuse-garrett-williams

NFL Hot Press: Bijan Robinson Highest-Graded Offensive Player:  https://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Bijan-Robinson-Highest-Graded-Offensive-Prospect

Kansas State’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Deuce Vaughn, Felix Anudike-Uzomah:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/kansas-states-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-deuce-vaughn-felix-anudike-uzomah/

Kansas’ 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Kenny Logan Jr., Earl Bostick Jr.:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/kansas-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-kenny-logan-jr-earl-bostick-jr/

Video:

Video Mailbag: On rookies, roster projections, potential disappointments and more:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/24/video-mailbag-on-rookies-roster-projections-potential-disappointments-and-more/
Posted by LionsFan at 4:21 AM 0 comments

Friday, June 24, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Friday 6-24-22

Articles:

GET TO KNOW: Wide receiver Jameson Williams:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/get-to-know-detroit-lions-wide-receiver-jameson-williams



On This Date: Sheila Hamp Named Principal Owner of Detroit Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/on-this-date-sheila-hamp-named-lions-owner

Michael Brockers: Aidan Hutchinson 'Opens Things Up' for Defense:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/brockers-says-hutchinson-opens-things-up-lions-defense


2022 Detroit Lions roster preview: Quintez Cephus must beat the odds... again:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/23/23179812/2022-detroit-lions-roster-preview-quintez-cephus-must-the-odds-again

Ranking the top 32 NFL contracts ahead of the 2022 season (13. LT TAYLOR DECKER, DETROIT LIONS: FOUR YEARS, $59.65 MILLION (THREE YEARS, $42.65 MILLION IN CASH REMAINING)):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-top-32-nfl-contract-rankings-2022

Why the Slide?: Joshua Paschal, DL, Kentucky:  https://walterfootball.com/ws2022jpaschal.php

NFL front office rankings 2022: Bills, Ravens, Eagles boast NFL’s best decision-makers (19.  Detroit Lions - General manager: Brad Holmes.  Like Douglas and the Jets, Holmes and the Lions don’t yet have any on-field results they can point to. But Detroit’s front office has quietly formed a foundation into which they can drop a new quarterback — when they decide the time is right. Holmes is building a tough team in the mold of head coach Dan Campbell. Five of the new regime’s first six top-75 draft picks have been offensive or defensive linemen.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-front-office-rankings-2022/2/

2023 NFL Draft:

College Football: Kansas State RB Deuce Vaughn is coming off a huge sophomore campaign and entering the 2023 NFL Draft conversation:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-kansas-state-rb-deuce-vaughn-nfl-draft-prospect

Tulsa’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Gerard Wheeler, Kendarin Ray:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tulsas-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-gerard-wheeler-kendarin-ray/

Tulane’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Sincere Haynesworth, Tyjae Spears:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tulanes-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-sincere-haynesworth-tyjae-spears/

Video:

Twentyman in the Huddle Episode 7: Michael Brockers gives an inside look at the Lions' d-line room:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-in-the-huddle-episode-7-michael-brockers-gives-an-inside-look-at-the-l

1 on 1 with Detroit Lions Principal Owner and Chair Sheila Hamp:   https://www.detroitlions.com/video/dannie-rogers-interviews-sheila-hamp
Posted by LionsFan at 3:59 AM 0 comments

Thursday, June 23, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 6-23-22

Articles:



Lions 2022 Roster Bubble: Running Backs:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-2022-roster-bubble-running-backs


Detroit Lions 2022 roster preview: Can Godwin Igwebuike grow in Year 2 as a running back?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/22/23178203/detroit-lions-2022-roster-preview-godwin-igwebuike-running-back

Lions rookie Kerby Joseph is ‘ahead of where’ coaches thought he’d be:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/22/23177981/detroit-lions-rookie-kerby-joseph-ahead-of-schedule-minicamp


Re-drafting the 2020 NFL Draft: Justin Herbert joins the Commanders and the Detroit Lions take Justin Jefferson (3. DETROIT LIONS: WR JUSTIN JEFFERSON (Original pick: CB JEFF OKUDAH):  Writing off Okudah as a “bust” is premature given the injuries he dealt with and the difficult responsibilities he was given out of the gate in Matt Patricia’s defense, but it’s safe to say Detroit would jump at the chance for a do-over.  Jefferson has quickly established himself as one of the NFL’s best wide receivers at just 23 years old. There were concerns coming out of LSU about his ability to win on the outside, particularly against press coverage, but Jefferson quickly rendered those concerns foolish with a 93.0 PFF grade against press coverage since 2020 that leads all wide receivers. He would have been an immediate contributor on a Lions’ roster that had Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones Jr. and little else behind them at this point.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-redrafting-2020-nfl-draft-class-justin-herbert-washington-commanders-justin-jefferson-detroit-lions

NFL Contracts: Who's next in line for big-money extensions? Lamar Jackson, Terry McLaurin and more (TE T.J. HOCKENSON, DETROIT LIONS:  The Lions have employed a very smart roster-building approach ever since general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell came aboard. They’ve been building through the draft and rewarding their own (Frank Ragnow, Romeo Okwara) as they try to build a winner. Hockenson’s best days are ahead of him, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if the two sides look to strike a deal before the season. 2021 marked his second straight campaign with 60-plus catches, and he ranked second among tight ends in contested catch rate (78.6%).):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-contracts-next-players-extensions-lamar-jackson-terry-mclaurin-2022

NFL's biggest training camp battles at every position (EDGE RUSHER: DETROIT LIONS — AIDAN HUTCHINSON VS. CHARLES HARRIS VS ROMEO OKWARA VS. JOSH PASCHAL:  Edge rusher has become another position where depth and rotation is important, so the actual pecking order for a group that may all get significant playing time can be a pointless exercise, but the Lions have a very interesting group in the midst of their rebuilding project on defense. Their top pick, Hutchinson, will have the inside track to a starting role, but Harris was brought back in the offseason after a breakout 2021 campaign. A former first-round pick in his own right (albeit 22nd overall, not second overall), Harris recorded 52 pressures for Detroit last season — 18 more than his previous career high. His 78.7 PFF pass-rushing grade was a career-best by more than 10 grading points. Harris will be firmly in the mix for a lot of snaps to see if he can back that performance up.  Before Harris and Hutchinson, Okwara had been the biggest hope for pressure, as he posted 66 pressures in 2020 before playing just four games last year.   Hutchinson isn’t the only rookie looking to make an impact, as Paschal also brings plenty of college production to the table. Paschal posted a 90.2 overall PFF grade this past season, and he was particularly effective against the run, giving him an avenue to playing time even if he isn’t the best pass-rusher of the group. Romeo’s brother, Julian Okwara, is also in the mix.   This is a talented group of rushers and if things improve elsewhere on the defense, they could platoon to be a formidable unit.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-biggest-training-camp-battles-at-every-position

Every NFL team's best value draft picks since 2006 (DETROIT LIONS: WR CALVIN JOHNSON, GEORGIA TECH (2ND OVERALL IN 2007):  The second overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft still providing the best return on investment is partly an indictment of how the Lions have drafted, but it's mostly an indication of how special Johnson was throughout his career. He averaged 81 catches, 1,291 yards and nine touchdowns per year for his entire career.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-every-teams-best-value-draft-picks-since-2006

Underappreciated players in NFC (Lions - Tracy Walker:  It's safe to say Lions fans would've been just fine if Walker was replaced, but the team disagrees with their assessment. Could he do more? Sure, considering he had just one interception last season and three in his four years with the Lions, but he's also become a full-fledged starter who has 319 combined tackles in 34 total starts, and that's led to Detroit granting him a three-year extension through the 2024 season. So fans of the Lions have to choose a side when it comes to Walker: either cheer him on and hope he improves his takeaways or write him off and be upset the former third-round pick is still around for what might be another three seasons.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/one-underappreciated-player-on-every-nfc-team-ezekiel-elliott-robert-quinn-top-talented-list/ 

Baylor’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Siaki Ika, Connor Galvin:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/baylors-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-siaki-ika-connor-galvin/

UCF’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Ryan O’Keefe, Davonte Brown:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ucfs-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-ryan-okeefe-davonte-brown/

2023 NFL Draft sleepers at OT include Matthew Bergeron, Jordan Morgan:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-sleepers-at-ot-include-matthew-bergeron-jordan-morgan/
Posted by LionsFan at 8:20 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, June 22, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 6-22-22

Articles:

GET TO KNOW: Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/get-to-know-detroit-lions-defensive-end-aidan-hutchinson

The NFL's PUP list change could be a big benefit for the Lions in 2022:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/21/nfl-pup-list-change-2022-detroit-lions-jameson-williams-romeo-okwara/

Detroit Lions who will be free agents after the 2022 NFL season:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-who-will-be-free-agents-after-the-2022-nfl-season/

How Aidan Hutchinson Could Allow NT Alim McNeill to Shine:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/hutchinson-could-allow-mcneill-to-shine

'Baller Alert': Why D'Andre Swift Could Be Top 5 NFL Running Back:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/onepride-plus/why-swift-could-be-top-five-nfl-running-back


Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection includes No. 2 pick Aidan Hutchinson and a battle at wide receiver:  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34123079/detroit-lions-53-man-roster-projection-includes-no-2-pick-aidan-hutchinson-battle-wide-receiver

Ranking NFL's top 10 tight ends of 2022: Travis Kelce headlines group of proven veterans, up-and-comers (8. T.J. Hockenson:  We were all ready for a breakout season from Hockenson in 2022. He started off hot, as the Detroit Lions' tight end caught 16 passes for 163 yards and two touchdowns in his first two contests, but then tapered off a bit. A hand injury landed him on injured reserve in December.   Despite how the campaign ended, Hockenson set a career high in receiving yards per game with 48.6, which ranked eighth among all tight ends, and boasted a 72.6% catch rate. He took a pretty big step backwards as a run blocker in 2021, according to PFF, but was still a reliable target who Jared Goff liked. Hockenson made the Pro Bowl in 2020, and maybe a career campaign is coming in 2022. His best football is ahead of him.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/ranking-nfls-top-10-tight-ends-of-2022-travis-kelce-headlines-group-of-proven-veterans-up-and-comers/

Ranking the 10 best Year 3 breakout candidates heading into the 2022 NFL season (4. G JONAH JACKSON, DETROIT LIONS:  Jackson has played over 1,000 snaps in each of his first two seasons — a great glimpse of his career progression to date. We saw it full well in his grading profile, as he earned a 74.5 overall grade from Week 7 on in 2021. Over the course of a full season, that figure would have ranked 12th among all starting guards. Now entrenched on the left side next to veteran Taylor Decker for the entire season, expect Jackson to be in the Pro Bowl conversation at year’s end.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-10-breakout-candidates-2022-nfl-season

NFL Salary Cap: Three-year analysis for all 32 NFL teams (DETROIT LIONS — RANK: 12TH.  The Lions have wisely remained patient in free agency despite a roster with plenty of holes, as they’ve seen countless times what frivolous spending in March can ultimately lead to. Detroit gave out the fifth-fewest total guaranteed dollars this offseason as it continues to turn over its roster and let young players assume key roles.   Over the last two drafts, Detroit has made 10 selections inside the first 115 picks. How this group ultimately pans out — along with the quarterback they eventually draft to supplant Goff — could go a long way in determining the Lions' future for the remainder of the 2020s. At the outset, they’ve executed this rebuild the right way.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-three-year-salary-cap-analysis-32-nfl-teams-2022

2023 NFL Draft:

Lions 2023 Draft Board: Why Oregon Justin Flowe Is LB to Watch:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-2023-draft-board-justin-flowe

USF’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Jaren Mangham, Donovan Jennings:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/usfs-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-jaren-mangham-donovan-jennings/

Texas’ 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Bijan Robinson, Jordan Whittington:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/texas-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-bijan-robinson-jordan-whittington/
Posted by LionsFan at 4:15 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, June 21, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 6-21-22

Articles:


Interesting 2023 mock draft projects a major QB wild card to the Lions:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/20/2023-nfl-mock-draft-detroit-lions-cam-ward-joey-porter-jr-projections/

Jameson Williams Must Increase 'Strength Development' Before Debut:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/jameson-williams-needs-strength-development

Ranking 2022 NFL Head Coaches (17.) Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions:  Campbell has done a very good job of changing the culture in Detroit. His quips have made him popular among the media, and he’s shown to be open and authentic. Now, he’ll have to live up to the standards he’s setting inside the team’s walls. He’s handled the mindset change, now Campbell must win games.):  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/2022-nfl-head-coach-rankings


How all 32 rookie first-round picks fared this offseason: Reporters give first impressions (2. Detroit Lions - Aidan Hutchinson, DE.  How he has fared so far: Throughout rookie and mandatory minicamp, there was nothing but high praise for Hutchinson from the Lions' coaching staff. Hutchinson was working with the starters and excelled in drills as he continues to prepare for his rookie season. Coach Dan Campbell has been impressed with his strength but sees areas for improvement in technique and learning the system.  "He doesn't say anything -- he listens. He's like a sponge in there. He absorbs the information, he watches how things are done and the way coaches want them done," Campbell said. -- Eric Woodyard):  https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34093354/2022-nfl-rookie-updates-offseason-notes-impressions-all-32-first-round-draft-picks

Nine players entering make-or-break year (Jeff Okudah - Okudah's NFL career to date has been nightmarish, a brutal, extraordinarily underwhelming rookie season followed by a torn Achilles in the season-opener in 2021. This is a 6-foot-1, 205-pounder with 4.48 speed and a 41-inch vertical who stuck like glue to wideouts during his career at Ohio State.   The natural talent is bursting at the seams of Okudah's Lions uniform. But the refinement at the line wasn't there as a rookie, and neither was his awareness mirroring down the field and finding the football. It's harsh, but it's a reality -- in the NFL, if by Year 3 you're not producing, you're pressing your luck with your future on your original team. Remember too, Detroit GM Brad Holmes didn't draft Okudah, and all NFL GMs -- justifiably -- want their guys more than anything else. If Okudah doesn't perform like a former No. 3 overall pick, or, heck, even like an overachieving mid-rounder, Okudah will drift to Bust Island and could find himself on the trade block next offseason.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nine-nfl-players-entering-a-make-or-break-2022-season-steelers-devin-bush-lions-jeff-okudah-and-more/

Interior offensive line rankings for the top 32 NFL iOL heading into 2022 led by Zack Martin and Quenton Nelson (8. C Frank Ragnow, Detroit Lions:  Frank Ragnow gets lost in the shuffle because he plays for the Lions and missed most of 2021, but he is one of the best interior blockers in the NFL. He checks every mark of an elite-level blocker in size, athleticism, strength, and processing ability.  It’s a shame he missed so much time last season because he looked well on his way to proving he belonged in the conversation with Jensen and Humphrey. Ragnow’s strike timing, placement, and ability to keep interior defenders on their toes proved the growth in his game since switching from left guard to center in 2019.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-32-nfl-interior-offensive-linemen/

Re-drafting the 2019 NFL Draft: Four WRs go in top 10, including A.J. Brown to Jets and Terry McLaurin to Giants (8. DETROIT LIONS: EDGE RASHAN GARY (Actual pick: TE T.J. Hockenson):  Hockenson has been fine to this point, and his best days certainly could be ahead of him, but there were too many talented players in this class for him to stay as the pick here. The Lions needed pass rush then, and they still desperately need it now (hence the Aidan Hutchinson pick at No. 2 this past year). Gary doesn’t have as many sacks as some other 2019 edge rushers, but his 20.5% pass-rush win rate over the past three seasons is the best among all defenders in the class. After earning an elite 89.1 PFF grade in 2021, Gary should have double-digit sacks on the horizon.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-redrafting-2019-nfl-draft-class-aj-brown-terry-mclaurin

2023 NFL Draft:

UCLA’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Zach Charbonnet, Dorian Thompson-Robinson:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/uclas-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-zach-charbonnet-dorian-thompson-robinson/

Memphis’ 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Quindell Johnson, Jacob Likes:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/memphis-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-quindell-johnson-jacob-likes/

Posted by LionsFan at 4:20 AM 0 comments

Monday, June 20, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Monday 6-20-22

Articles:

Lions salary cap: Where Detroit stands now that all draft picks are signed:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/19/lions-salary-cap-room-rookie-signing/



NFL Analyst Predicts How Long Lions Stay in 'Wild-Card Hunt':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/nfl-analysts-predicts-how-long-lions-playoff-hunt

NFC North Preview: Top Lions Addition and Departure:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/nfc-north-preview-lions-top-2022-roster-move

Tight end rankings for top 32 NFL TEs heading into 2022 led by Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews (13. TJ Hockenson):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-32-nfl-tight-ends-2022/

Offensive tackle rankings for top 32 NFL OTs heading into 2022 headlined by Trent Williams and Tristan Wirfs (23. Penei Sewell):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-32-nfl-offensive-tackles/

Podcasts:

Posted by LionsFan at 4:41 AM 0 comments

Sunday, June 19, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Sunday 6-19-22

Articles:

DL coach Todd Wash 'very excited' about where Hutchinson's at:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/dl-coach-todd-wash-very-excited-about-where-hutchinson-s-at

Lions Romeo Okwara 'Not Completely Healthy' Yet:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/romeo-okwara-not-fully-healthy

NFC North Roundtable: Lions Offensive and Defensive MVP's:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/nfc-north-roundtable-lions-2022-mvp



Jared Goff calls 2021 game-winner vs. Vikings top-3 favorite moment of his career:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/18/23173650/jared-goff-calls-2021-game-winner-vikings-top-3-favorite-moment-career

2023 NFL Draft:

2023 NFL Draft Scouting Notebook: Favorite Big 12 prospects upon initial study:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-scouting-notebook-favorite-big-12-prospects-upon-initial-study/

2023 NFL Draft: How many Group of Five prospects will go in the first round?:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-how-many-group-of-five-prospects-will-go-in-the-first-round/


VIDEO:

Potential breakout stars from the NFC North | 'NFL Total Access' (Swift is picked for the Lions):  https://www.nfl.com/videos/potential-breakout-stars-from-the-nfc-north-nfl-total-access
Posted by LionsFan at 4:35 AM 0 comments

Saturday, June 18, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Saturday 6-18-22

Articles:

Lions offseason questions: Players who impressed:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-offseason-questions-players-who-impressed-cephus-goff-swift

Lions announce updates to player personnel and football operations staffs:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-announce-updates-to-player-personnel-and-football-operations-staffs

Detroit Lions sign second-round DE Josh Paschal to rookie contract:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/detroit-lions-sign-second-round-de-josh-paschal-to-rookie-contract.html

Detroit Lions know how they’ll use Romeo Okwara when he returns from Achilles injury:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/detroit-lions-know-how-theyll-use-romeo-okwara-when-he-returns-from-achilles-injury.html




Odds TE Devin Funchess Makes Lions 53-Man Roster:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/odds-funchess-makes-lions-roster


Goff, Cabinda eager to make Detroit a winner: ‘This city’s turning up’:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/16/23171189/jared-goff-jason-cabinda-city-detroit-winner

Who will end their playoff drought in '22? (6. Lions:  Dan Campbell makes headlines for saying things that are fun and wild, but don't get it twisted: The man can coach. Players love him. Players fight for him. While the Lions went winless through the first three months of Campbell's debut campaign, they never stopped competing and finished last season by splitting their last six games. Baby steps. Remember, this is the franchise that's been "rebuilding since 1957."  Campbell and GM Brad Holmes are indeed undertaking a true rebuild, but the vibe is completely different around these Lions. They're building up the trenches, too, with solid cores on the offensive and defensive lines. I also loved Detroit's draft, and not only because they grabbed University of Michigan star and Mitten State native Aidan Hutchinson. If first-round WR Jameson Williams is healthy sooner than later, I think the Lions will still be in the wild-card hunt when the Thanksgiving Day game against Buffalo rolls around. Then they can fade and finish 7-10.):  https://www.nfl.com/news/2022-nfl-season-most-likely-team-to-end-playoff-drought-least-likely-let-s-rank-

1 breakout veteran for all 32 NFL teams in 2022 (Detroit Lions: Penei Sewell - Sewell was good as a rookie. He’s capable of greatness — and throwing the fastest and strongest edge rushers to the turf like tackling dummies. Another season of pro experience, this time with an offense with a few extra playmakers, could propel him to stardom (as much as an offensive tackle can hope for, at least).):  https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2022-nfl-breakout-players-32-teams-veterans-hollywood-brown-derek-carr

2023 NFL Draft:

Early 2023 NFL Draft Linebacker Rankings: Clemson's Trenton Simpson, Oregon's Noah Sewell top the list:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-linebacker-rankings

East Carolina’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Keaton Mitchell, Holton Ahlers:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/east-carolinas-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-keaton-mitchell-holton-ahlers/
Posted by LionsFan at 4:49 AM 0 comments

Friday, June 17, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Friday 6-17-22

Articles: 

Lions confident in both Boyle & Blough as they battle it out for backup QB spot:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-confident-in-both-boyle-blough-as-they-battle-it-out-for-backup-qb-spot

Lions head into another year looking for TE depth to rise behind blossoming star T.J. Hockenson:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/lions-head-into-another-year-looking-for-te-depth-to-rise-behind-blossoming-star-tj-hockenson.html

Lions passing game coordinator Tanner Engstrand offers a telling quote on the new philosophy in Detroit:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/16/lions-passing-game-coordinator-tanner-engstrand-dan-campbell-coaching-philosophy/


Lions Playing Multiple Tight Ends Can Put 'Stress' on NFL Defenses:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/how-multiple-tight-ends-stress-nfl-defenses

NFL Executives Still Believe Baker Mayfield Could Land with Lions:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/executives-still-believe-mayfield-could-land-with-lions


Detroit Lions coaches, teammates still see greatness in Jared Goff:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/16/23170883/detroit-lions-coaches-teammates-see-greatness-jared-goff

Why Lions believe Malcolm Rodriguez is ahead of some 3rd-year players:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/16/23170761/detroit-lions-rookie-malcolm-rodriguez-ahead-3rd-year-players



NFL safety rankings for the top 32 heading into 2022 led by Kevin Byard and Derwin James (26. Tracy Walker):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-safety-rankings-for-the-top-32-heading-into-2022-led-by-kevin-byard-and-derwin-james/

2023 NFL Draft:

College Football: LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte looks to establish himself as the next great LSU pass-catcher:  https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-lsu-wide-receiver-kayshon-boutte-next-great-lsu-pass-catcher

Early 2023 NFL Draft EDGE Rankings: Alabama's Will Anderson Jr. headlines the group:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings


Temple’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Isaac Moore, Jordan Magee:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/temples-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-isaac-moore-jordan-magee/

Navy’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by John Marshall:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/navys-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-john-marshall/

Video:

Twentyman in the Huddle Episode 6: Wrapping up the Lions' 2022 offseason program:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-in-the-huddle-episode-6-wrapping-up-the-lions-2022-offseason-program
Posted by LionsFan at 4:16 AM 0 comments

Thursday, June 16, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Thursday 6-16-22

Articles:

Lions looking for 'small victories' from Okudah in return from Achilles injury:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-looking-for-small-victories-from-okudah-in-return-from-achilles-injury

Lions still view Amon-Ra St. Brown as ‘that dude’ despite more competitive receiver room:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/lions-still-view-amon-ra-st-brown-as-that-dude-despite-more-competitive-receiver-room.html

Expectations for second-year Lions DL Levi Onwuzurike on the rise after tough rookie campaign:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/expectations-for-second-year-lions-dl-levi-onwuzurike-on-the-rise-after-tough-rookie-campaign.html

Detroit Lions feeling good about direction of young defensive backfield:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/detroit-lions-feeling-good-about-direction-of-young-defensive-backfield.html

Hank Fraley: Lions Offensive Linemen 'Can Be a Special Group':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/hank-fraley-says-lions-offensive-linemen-can-be-special



State of the 2022 Detroit Lions: Will team break through in Year 2 under Dan Campbell?:  https://www.nfl.com/news/state-of-the-2022-detroit-lions-will-team-break-through-in-year-2-under-dan-camp

Puzzling offseason moves by NFC teams (Detroit Lions: Not adding a QB - The Lions were seen as a dark horse to select a quarterback in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. While they used the No. 32 overall pick to trade up for wide receiver Jameson Williams, it didn't hurt Detroit's chances of adding a quarterback. Surprisingly, there was just one signal-caller taken in the first 73 picks. The Lions absolutely had their chances to take Ridder, Corral or Willis. They even could have taken Howell or Bailey Zappe later on. Instead, they decided against it.  Jared Goff completed a career-high 67.2% of his passes and threw just eight interceptions last season, but the jury is still out when it comes to him being the quarterback of the future. Detroit should have added a rookie, or at least someone else. Maybe it is the team that ends up with either Baker Mayfield or Jimmy Garoppolo.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/most-questionable-offseason-move-by-each-nfc-team-49ers-handling-of-jimmy-garoppolo-saints-draft-trades/

NFL head coach rankings 2022: Ranking all 32 NFL head coaches ahead of 2022 NFL training camps (24) Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions (Regular-season record: 8-20-1 (.293), Super Bowl wins as HC: 0):  Dan Campbell’s press conferences are epic, but what’s really impressive about his work is that his players fight for him, even with a clear talent deficiency. Campbell has some notable upgrades in Year 2 of his Lions tenure, and that will hopefully lead to enhanced success. Campbell showed a lot of promise as an interim head coach with the Miami Dolphins in 2015.):  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-head-coach-rankings-2022/2/

2023 NFL Draft:

Early 2023 NFL Draft DI Rankings: Georgia's Jalen Carter, Clemson's Bryan Bresee lead the pack:  https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-interior-defender-rankings

Early 2023 NFL Draft OT Rankings: Northwestern's Peter Skoronski and Georgia's Broderick Jones top the list:   https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2023-nfl-draft-offensive-tackle-rankings



Top 10 quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft include Will Levis and Bryce Young:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-top-10-quarterbacks/


2023 NFL Draft breakout candidates at DT include Omari Thomas, Alfred Collins:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-breakout-candidates-at-dt-include-omari-thomas-alfred-collins/

South Carolina’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Spencer Rattler, Cam Smith:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/south-carolinas-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-spencer-rattler-cam-smith/

LSU’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Kayshon Boutte, BJ Ojulari:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/lsus-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-kayshon-boutte-bj-ojulari/

Podcasts:

Posted by LionsFan at 4:34 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Wednesday 6-15-22

Articles:

Lions making red zone improvements an area of focus:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-making-red-zone-improvements-an-area-of-focus

Returning QBs Tim Boyle, David Blough duking it out for Detroit Lions’ backup job:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/returning-qbs-tim-boyle-david-blough-duking-it-out-for-detroit-lions-backup-job.html


Lions DB coach Aubrey Pleasant: 'Small victories' for Jeff Okudah to become 'large goals':  https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2022/06/14/lions-db-coach-aubrey-pleasant-small-victories-jeff-okudah-become-large-goals/7620817001/

Lions LB coach Kelvin Sheppard remains very excited about Derrick Barnes:  https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2022/06/14/lions-lb-coach-kelvin-sheppard-remains-very-excited-about-derrick-barnes/


Todd Wash on Aidan Hutchinson: 'We Got to Really Calm His World Down':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-trying-to-make-hutchinson-comfortable

Jameson Williams Was Receiver Antwaan Randle El Wanted All Along:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jameson-williams-receiver-antwaan-randle-el-wanted


Safety Kerby Joseph Has 'Innate Ability to Get His Hands on the Ball':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/joseph-has-innate-ability-getting-hands-on-football


How does Lions owner Sheila Hamp compare to other, successful NFL owners?:  https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2022/6/14/23164038/detroit-lions-owner-sheila-hamp-compared-successful-nfl-owners

2022 NFL defensive line rankings: Los Angeles Rams take top spot, Tampa Bay Buccaneers land at No. 5 (26. DETROIT LIONS:  Detroit has potential up front with a myriad of young, recent draft picks such as Levi Onwuzurike, Alim McNeill, Aidan Hutchinson, Josh Paschal and Julian Okwara. However, there isn’t a ton of proven, high-level NFL talent. Michael Brockers — one of the established veterans on the interior — is coming off by far the worst season of his NFL career (40.6 PFF grade in 2021).  However, there’s reason to believe Aidan Hutchinson, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, can hit the ground running. He has the combination of athletic traits and college production that typically translates to NFL success.):  https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-2022-nfl-defensive-line-rankings-los-angeles-rams-take-top-spot-tampa-bay-buccaneers-land-at-no-5

2023 NFL Draft:


Texas A&M’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Antonio Johnson, Devon Achane:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/texas-ams-2023-nfl-draft-prospects/

Georgia’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Jalen Carter, Kelee Ringo:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/georgias-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-jalen-carter-kelee-ringo/

Video:

Lions hold media combine for reporters, including WXYZ's Galli and Trotman:  https://www.wxyz.com/sports/lions-hold-media-combine-for-reporters-including-wxyzs-galli-and-trotman
Posted by LionsFan at 4:15 AM 0 comments

Tuesday, June 14, 2022

Morning Lions Links for Tuesday 6-14-22

Articles:

TWENTYMAN: OTA Week 3 observations:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-ota-week-3-observations-raymond-swift-houston

O'HARA: What we learned from Lions minicamp:  https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-what-we-learned-from-lions-minicamp-goff-williams-anzalone

Detroit Lions’ much-improved receiver depth sets stage for training camp battle for spots:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/detroit-lions-much-improved-receiver-depth-sets-stage-for-training-camp-battle-for-spots.html

Lions OC Ben Johnson drawing rave reviews for early work with new-look offense:  https://www.mlive.com/lions/2022/06/lions-oc-ben-johnson-drawing-rave-reviews-for-early-work-with-new-look-offense.html



Mark Brunell: Jared Goff's Confidence Is at 'All-Time High':  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/jared-goff-confidence-all-time-high

Lions Coaching Staff Trusts WR Kalif Raymond:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/nfl/lions/news/lions-trust-kalif-raymond

Lions Coaching Staff Trusts WR Kalif Raymond:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-trust-kalif-raymond

Inside Allen Park: D'Andre Swift, Jeff Okudah Present at Voluntary Workouts:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/inside-allen-park-final-ota-takeaways

Pleasant Hopes Small Victories for Okudah Lead to Large Goals:  https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/pleasant-hopes-small-victories-okudah-lead-big-nfl-goals





2022 NFL season: Non-QBs each team can't afford to lose, from Chiefs' Travis Kelce to Cowboys' Micah Parsons (Lions: OT Penei Sewell - Center Frank Ragnow is a solid alternative, though Detroit managed without him for all but four games in 2021. Sewell, meanwhile, offers versatility as a left/right tackle tasked with keeping QB Jared Goff comfortable in the pocket. You might be tempted to go defense here, considering they need all the help they can get, but Goff requires a cozy setup more than most.):  https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2022-nfl-season-non-qbs-each-team-cant-afford-to-lose-from-chiefs-travis-kelce-to-cowboys-micah-parsons/

2023 NFL Draft:


2023 NFL Draft sleepers at DT include DeVere Levelston, Akheem Mesidor:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2023-nfl-draft-sleepers-at-dt-include-devere-levelston-akheem-mesidor/

Mississippi State’s 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Emmanuel Forbes, Will Rogers:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/mississippi-states-2023-nfl-draft-prospects-led-by-emmanuel-forbes-will-rogers/

Ole Miss’ 2023 NFL Draft prospects led by Zach Evans, Isheem Young:  https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ole-miss-2023-nfl-draft-prospects/


Video:



SportsWorks - 6-12-22 -- Woody talking Tigers, Lions NBA, NHL PGA & LIV golf with Pat & Stoney:  https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/1080749

Podcast:

Posted by LionsFan at 3:54 AM 0 comments
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