by Tom Kowalski
Monday June 30, 2008, 12:06 AM
ERNIE SIMS
2008 Scouting Report
The question isn't whether Sims is going to turn into a Pro Bowl player, it's whether he'll survive to play in Hawaii. Sims has been everything the Lions were looking for when they made him the ninth overall pick two years ago and, if the Lions defense gets better, he'll finally get some national recognition for his talents.
However, the Lions defense has been so bad the last two years that they can't get off the field. While most of the other positions rotate, Sims is on the field for almost every play and it's wearing him out. The Lions' 32nd-ranked defense was on the field for 1,087 plays last season - almost two full games more than an above-average defense.
Sims, who has battled a sore shoulder late in the season for the last two years, gets himself into trouble because he's a violent hitter and never lets up. Sims has excellent speed, can go sideline-to-sideline, can either slip blockers or take them head on - regardless of their size - and he plays to the whistle.
While he's improving in his zone coverage drops and reactions, he still needs to improve in his one-on-one coverage skills.
Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher said that in the first year of the Tampa Two, players really have no idea what they're doing and then make a big jump in the second year. But, Urlacher has said, it's the third year that a player really gets comfortable in what he's doing. That's where Sims is headed now. He's been an impact player and he's going to get even better. His playmaking ability took a leap last year and that should continue.
(For the X's and O's folks -- In the Tampa Two, Sims is always positioned behind the "three technique'' tackle (which is usually Cory Redding). Sims will sometimes play on the right side or the left side - depending on whether the Lions are in an "over'' or "under'' front - but he always follows the under tackle in the formation.)
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Brown looks forward to working with Cherilus during camp
THURSDAY, JUNE 26
It is difficult for any rookie emerging into the NFL ranks and the Detroit Lions’ rookies are no different.
But Detroit’s first-round selection Gosder Cherilus will be lucky enough to have the help of an alumnus who has plenty of experience in a Lions’ uniform: former NFL offensive lineman Lomas Brown.
Brown on if he has talked with Cherilus: “Yeah, I talked with the big fellow. We had great conversation – a real delightful guy. I really like Gos, he seems like he has the right attitude. When we talked, he said all the right things and let me know he’s a hungry individual that wants to get better. Anytime you’ve got a guy that’s willing to listen and a guy that’s hungry, you can teach him everything else. That’s what I’m excited about him with.”
Brown spent a decade with the Lions and will take any excuse to get back around the team.
In 2005, he was a coaching intern with the team during training camp.
Brown in 2005: “I was nervous my first day. It felt like I was going to camp, my hands were sweating, I had a few butterflies in my stomach, but I think it was just the excitement of being around the guys again.”
This year, he will join the team for training camp with the intention of helping Cherilus who – as Brown described – will be ‘thrown into the fire.’
Brown: “I really do (enjoy teaching). Now, the coaching thing – the structured coaching thing – I can’t get a grasp around that. But doing what I’m doing (at different youth camps): I can come out, visit different schools, different kids, meet different coaches and everything – I can learn a lot of things and that’s what I like. And, of course, it keeps my Lions’ fix going now that I’ll probably be able to work with Gosder.”
So what are Brown’s impressions of the young, eager lineman?
Brown: “I (have seen him) out there at a practice. With any first-year guy – any first-year player – there’s going to be things you’ve got to work on. He’s got so much going through his head right now, he’s a little slow on the snap counts, but things like that you can teach, you can correct things like that.
“So, again, I’m glad he has the attitude that he has that he’s willing to learn and he wants to learn. I think he’s going to be pretty good. I’m thinking we’re probably going to throw him in there in the fire so we’re going to have to speed up this learning curve, too.”
It is difficult for any rookie emerging into the NFL ranks and the Detroit Lions’ rookies are no different.
But Detroit’s first-round selection Gosder Cherilus will be lucky enough to have the help of an alumnus who has plenty of experience in a Lions’ uniform: former NFL offensive lineman Lomas Brown.
Brown on if he has talked with Cherilus: “Yeah, I talked with the big fellow. We had great conversation – a real delightful guy. I really like Gos, he seems like he has the right attitude. When we talked, he said all the right things and let me know he’s a hungry individual that wants to get better. Anytime you’ve got a guy that’s willing to listen and a guy that’s hungry, you can teach him everything else. That’s what I’m excited about him with.”
Brown spent a decade with the Lions and will take any excuse to get back around the team.
In 2005, he was a coaching intern with the team during training camp.
Brown in 2005: “I was nervous my first day. It felt like I was going to camp, my hands were sweating, I had a few butterflies in my stomach, but I think it was just the excitement of being around the guys again.”
This year, he will join the team for training camp with the intention of helping Cherilus who – as Brown described – will be ‘thrown into the fire.’
Brown: “I really do (enjoy teaching). Now, the coaching thing – the structured coaching thing – I can’t get a grasp around that. But doing what I’m doing (at different youth camps): I can come out, visit different schools, different kids, meet different coaches and everything – I can learn a lot of things and that’s what I like. And, of course, it keeps my Lions’ fix going now that I’ll probably be able to work with Gosder.”
So what are Brown’s impressions of the young, eager lineman?
Brown: “I (have seen him) out there at a practice. With any first-year guy – any first-year player – there’s going to be things you’ve got to work on. He’s got so much going through his head right now, he’s a little slow on the snap counts, but things like that you can teach, you can correct things like that.
“So, again, I’m glad he has the attitude that he has that he’s willing to learn and he wants to learn. I think he’s going to be pretty good. I’m thinking we’re probably going to throw him in there in the fire so we’re going to have to speed up this learning curve, too.”
Lions' third-round pick Kevin Smith loves football, fishing, Denzel and LeBron
June 29, 2008
Kevin Smith was selected 64th overall by the Lions in this year's NFL draft. The Lions traded up to the first pick of the third round to take the 6-foot-1, 215-pound running back out of Central Florida. As a junior this past season, Smith rushed for 2,567 yards, falling 61 yards short of Barry Sanders' single-season NCAA record. Recently he chatted with Free Press special writer Jon Machota:
You have your own Web site. Who came up with the idea for www.ImKevinSmith.com? My marketing person met with a guy, and he wanted me to try it out and I did it. I didn't finish though. I'm a finisher, but I didn't get a chance to finish my Web site, man I've had so much to do. But it's been a great experience for me.
Are you going to keep the site up throughout your career? I think I am, but I'm going to switch it, though. It's not going to be I'm Kevin Smith. I'm going to do my own Web site. That was for him, so I'll probably do my own when I get established in Detroit.
On your Web site you ranked yourself as the best running back in this class of rookies. What sets you apart? I ran for 2,567 yards and 30 touchdowns. I led the nation in scoring and rushing. How are you better than me?
What's something you want to buy with your first NFL contract? I'll just get a house and a car. That's it. ... I got to wait a couple more contracts. This ain't a big splurging contract. This is just a settle in and live (contract).
On your Web site, you compared your season at Central Florida last year to what Denzel Washington was to the movie business that year. If there were a movie about you, would he play you? It would have to be Denzel. Denzel's the man. You look at all his movies, he's the man. You enjoy watching Denzel, you enjoy watching me.
Favorite Denzel movie? Probably "Training Day."
Coming from Florida, will it be difficult to adjust to the Michigan weather? In the winters I'll adjust, but I think we'll be (inside) during the winter. I'll adjust though.
Hobbies? I like to fish and I was just talking to Ernie (Sims) about collecting reptiles. He's got some reptiles. I like animals (and) pets. And cooking. Just chilling. When I'm not playing football, I like just being a regular human being and just relax and not even think about it. It's hard not to think about it. It is my job now.
Are you going to keep No. 34 or are you going to try and get back No. 24 like you wore in college? I'm going to keep it. It's my rookie number. This is what they gave me. I made 24, I'll make 34.
Kevin Jones wore that number last year and he was looked at as the running back of the future. Do you want to be looked at in the same way? The fans will see me for what I am. I don't want to make any promises and tell them I want to be that guy. You just end up being that person by the things you do on the field. The fans, I think they'll embrace me by my performance. I'm just going to do what I got to do, just play the game the way it's supposed to be played.
Who's been your biggest football influence? Definitely my mother (Pam). She's the one that kept me going. I think she wants to switch places with me. I think she wants to be in the NFL. She loves sports, especially football, especially watching her baby boy. My mother's always been there. I plan on making her proud.
What else makes her so special to you? She just taught me how to be a man. ... She showed me what it means to work hard and work for what you want.
Players you enjoyed watching when you were growing up? A lot of football players. Emmitt (Smith), Deion (Sanders), Dorsey Levens, Jamal Anderson, Ahman Green, Frank Gore, Willis McGahee, Reggie Bush when he was at USC.
Are you a fan of any other sports? Basketball. LeBron James fan for sure. LeBron James and (Michael Jordan fan).
So you're a Cavs fan even though Detroit could be their rival? It could, (but) I'm a LeBron fan. You can't take me away from LeBron.
Kevin Smith was selected 64th overall by the Lions in this year's NFL draft. The Lions traded up to the first pick of the third round to take the 6-foot-1, 215-pound running back out of Central Florida. As a junior this past season, Smith rushed for 2,567 yards, falling 61 yards short of Barry Sanders' single-season NCAA record. Recently he chatted with Free Press special writer Jon Machota:
You have your own Web site. Who came up with the idea for www.ImKevinSmith.com? My marketing person met with a guy, and he wanted me to try it out and I did it. I didn't finish though. I'm a finisher, but I didn't get a chance to finish my Web site, man I've had so much to do. But it's been a great experience for me.
Are you going to keep the site up throughout your career? I think I am, but I'm going to switch it, though. It's not going to be I'm Kevin Smith. I'm going to do my own Web site. That was for him, so I'll probably do my own when I get established in Detroit.
On your Web site you ranked yourself as the best running back in this class of rookies. What sets you apart? I ran for 2,567 yards and 30 touchdowns. I led the nation in scoring and rushing. How are you better than me?
What's something you want to buy with your first NFL contract? I'll just get a house and a car. That's it. ... I got to wait a couple more contracts. This ain't a big splurging contract. This is just a settle in and live (contract).
On your Web site, you compared your season at Central Florida last year to what Denzel Washington was to the movie business that year. If there were a movie about you, would he play you? It would have to be Denzel. Denzel's the man. You look at all his movies, he's the man. You enjoy watching Denzel, you enjoy watching me.
Favorite Denzel movie? Probably "Training Day."
Coming from Florida, will it be difficult to adjust to the Michigan weather? In the winters I'll adjust, but I think we'll be (inside) during the winter. I'll adjust though.
Hobbies? I like to fish and I was just talking to Ernie (Sims) about collecting reptiles. He's got some reptiles. I like animals (and) pets. And cooking. Just chilling. When I'm not playing football, I like just being a regular human being and just relax and not even think about it. It's hard not to think about it. It is my job now.
Are you going to keep No. 34 or are you going to try and get back No. 24 like you wore in college? I'm going to keep it. It's my rookie number. This is what they gave me. I made 24, I'll make 34.
Kevin Jones wore that number last year and he was looked at as the running back of the future. Do you want to be looked at in the same way? The fans will see me for what I am. I don't want to make any promises and tell them I want to be that guy. You just end up being that person by the things you do on the field. The fans, I think they'll embrace me by my performance. I'm just going to do what I got to do, just play the game the way it's supposed to be played.
Who's been your biggest football influence? Definitely my mother (Pam). She's the one that kept me going. I think she wants to switch places with me. I think she wants to be in the NFL. She loves sports, especially football, especially watching her baby boy. My mother's always been there. I plan on making her proud.
What else makes her so special to you? She just taught me how to be a man. ... She showed me what it means to work hard and work for what you want.
Players you enjoyed watching when you were growing up? A lot of football players. Emmitt (Smith), Deion (Sanders), Dorsey Levens, Jamal Anderson, Ahman Green, Frank Gore, Willis McGahee, Reggie Bush when he was at USC.
Are you a fan of any other sports? Basketball. LeBron James fan for sure. LeBron James and (Michael Jordan fan).
So you're a Cavs fan even though Detroit could be their rival? It could, (but) I'm a LeBron fan. You can't take me away from LeBron.
So just how good can the Lions be in 2008?
BY JEFF ZILLGITT AND NATE DAVIS • USA TODAY • June 28, 2008
The words spilled out of Jon Kitna's mouth last month just as easily as they did 11 months earlier, when the Detroit Lions quarterback predicted his team would reach double figures in wins during the 2007 season.
When the Lions defeated the Denver Broncos on Nov. 4 and improved to 6-2, they seemed on their way to a 10-win season for the first time since 1995.
But for a franchise with just 12 winning seasons in the past 40 years, a winning record was not in store for 2007. It was a lot of the same old Lions. Detroit lost seven of its final eight games, including six in a row, and finished 7-9.
But Kitna fearlessly reiterated his 10-win prediction for 2008 anyway.
"Our expectation is we will be disappointed if we don't win 10 games, because that will mean that we're not in the playoffs and that (stinks)," Kitna says. "I can't make it any simpler than that."
He isn't being bold just for the sake of it. Listen closer: "Anybody that says that's not their expectation level is unfortunately not very much of a competitor," he says.
He has a point. Who plans on an average or subpar year? At the same time, delivering on the field speaks more loudly than positive intentions. Kitna realizes that.
He will have to engineer 10 victories with a new offensive coordinator and new quarterbacks coach. Mike Martz and his pass-happy offense are gone, now with the San Francisco 49ers. Jim Colletto, a former head coach at Purdue and longtime college and pro assistant, enters his first year as an NFL offensive coordinator.
Scot Loeffler, a former University of Michigan quarterback, is in his first NFL job after six seasons as the Wolverines' quarterbacks coach. "It's really early, but he's very detailed, which is good for me because I like to know everything about a certain play or how we're doing something," Kitna says of Loeffler.
Unlike the Martz era, it won't be an air-it-out-at-all-costs system under Colletto, who wants to keep Kitna on his feet. He was sacked 114 times the past two seasons. While Detroit's passing game ranked ninth in 2007, its running game ranked 31st (80.5 yards a game). The Lions had seven games in which they rushed for fewer than 50 yards, including minus 18 at the Arizona Cardinals.
Colletto wants a consistent running game and doesn't want to rely on the pass. At the same time, he wants to give Kitna time to find his receivers. To that end, the Lions drafted tackle Gosder Cherilus in the first round — "I heard he's a mauler," Kitna says — and Central Florida tailback Kevin Smith, the second-leading single-season rusher in NCAA Division I-A history behind former Lions great Barry Sanders, in the third round.
An improved running game should free up talented wideouts Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson, who is ready for his second season after an injury-marred rookie year.
"This year, I know exactly what's happening with the offense," Johnson says. "I know what's going to go on in practice, and I know how to practice. We have a great locker-room situation. The chemistry's there."
Kitna enjoyed Martz's system but often was handcuffed at the line of scrimmage. He is expected to have more freedom to change plays this season.
"Obviously there's going to be more pressure on my position in terms of getting us into the right things at the line of scrimmage, whereas before coach Martz watched all the film and broke it down," Kitna says. "The pressure was on him to get us to the right play calls and to really be a step ahead of the defense.
"Now, it's going to be on me to be able to do that stuff at the line of scrimmage, and that counts for preparation during the week."
Defensively, Detroit is turning into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers North. Coach Rod Marinelli, defensive coordinator Joe Barry and defensive backs coach Jimmy Lake were all coaches with the Buccaneers before coming to Detroit. Now their former players are also migrating to the Motor City. And the Lions need the help. They gave up a league-worst 377.6 yards and 27.8 points a game in 2007.
Cornerback Brian Kelly spent 10 years in Tampa Bay before signing with the Lions. Safety Dwight Smith and defensive tackle Chuck Darby played for the Buccaneers from 2001 to 2004. They all have intimate knowledge of the Tampa 2 defense, a scheme based on fast players covering specific areas of the field.
"I want to shrink the width of this field. I want to narrow it with speed," Marinelli says. "The thing about speed is, when you have it, you have to be tough enough to use it all the time. That's the mental toughness."
The Lions could have six new starters on defense, including Kelly, Darby and Smith.
"I'm excited," Kelly says. "It's a lot of familiarity for me here. I've been watching the guys play for the last couple of years. There's a lot of similarities of what we do in Tampa and what they're doing here. It's a simple system … guys that believe in each other and know that this man is going to take care of his position and this guy is going to take care of his position."
Says defensive tackle Cory Redding: "Now, they just have to get familiar with us. They've been around the scheme, and they know exactly what to do. The experience is the big part. Putting the Tampa 2 system in a couple of years ago, everybody was trying to figure out where they're going to fit in, and it's tough at times.
"But you have to buy into the system because the system works."
Now, it's up to the Lions to translate ideas, schemes and words into victories — 10 of them for Kitna's sake.
AROUND THE FIELD IN DETROIT
• Quarterback: Jon Kitna, who will be 36 in September, has averaged 20 touchdown passes, 21 interceptions and more than 4,100 passing yards over the last two seasons. Expect those numbers to fall with former offensive coordinator Mike Martz gone. Drew Stanton or Dan Orlovsky could stake a claim as the quarterback of the future if Kitna falters.
• Running back: Kevin Smith ran for 2,567 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2007 at Central Florida. He'll have a golden opportunity to provide half that as a rookie. Tatum Bell returns, though he fell out of favor in 2007. Brian Calhoun will get a long look after two injury-marred seasons.
• Wide receiver: Calvin Johnson showed flashes of the potential that made him the second overall pick of the 2007 draft, but a back injury curtailed his production. Roy Williams figures to get his share of catches, but Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald are looking at reduced roles in new offensive coordinator Jim Colletto's run-oriented system.
• Tight end: Michael Gaines signed as a free agent, joining a group that includes Dan Campbell, Casey FitzSimmons and Sean McHugh. Some might have to play H-back to earn more playing time.
• Offensive line: This unit surrendered 54 sacks and the run game produced a meager 80.5 yards a game. But that was under Martz, who often fielded four or five receivers. The linemen will be drive-blocking far more under Colletto, rather than playing on their heels. Left tackle Jeff Backus hasn't missed a game in his eight-year career. Rookie tackle Gosder Cherilus should help pave the way for the running game from the right side.
• Defensive line: On paper, this group is less formidable after occasionally dominant tackle Shaun Rogers was traded to the Cleveland Browns. Tackles Cory Redding and newly signed Chuck Darby will have to step up, and Shaun Cody must show something in his fourth year. Dewayne White, Jared DeVries and Ikaika Alama-Francis are the primary ends.
• Linebacker: Ernie Sims, fourth in the NFL in tackles last year, is emerging as a force on the weak side. But after Sims, there are a lot of questions. Paris Lenon and Alex Lewis are back, but expect rookie Jordon Dizon to quickly carve out a role. Fellow rookie Cliff Avril might also earn time on the strong side or up front.
• Secondary: The Lions ranked 31st against the pass in 2007. Leigh Bodden, acquired in the Rogers trade, becomes the team's best corner. Veteran Brian Kelly, imported from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, also should start. Dwight Smith should man one safety spot, and Daniel Bullocks, back from a knee injury, will try to reclaim the other job from second-year man Gerald Alexander.
• Special teams: Ever-reliable kicker Jason Hanson is back for his 17th season in Detroit. Nick Harris holds down the punting duties. The Lions could use more pop from the return game, and rookie Kenneth Moore might get an opportunity to shine here.
• Coaching staff: Rod Marinelli notched seven wins in his second season, the Lions' best showing since 2000, though their 1-7 second half was a bitter disappointment. A disciple of the Tampa 2 defense, he continues to stock the locker room with the type of high-effort, highly disciplined players he covets. The offense will look far different under Colletto.
• Outlook: If the defense improves to the middle of the pack and the offense adapts to its new approach, the Lions can certainly be in the playoff conversation amid a wide-open NFC. If nothing else, the retirement of Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre, long a Detroit nemesis, should help the Lions be more competitive in the NFC North.
The words spilled out of Jon Kitna's mouth last month just as easily as they did 11 months earlier, when the Detroit Lions quarterback predicted his team would reach double figures in wins during the 2007 season.
When the Lions defeated the Denver Broncos on Nov. 4 and improved to 6-2, they seemed on their way to a 10-win season for the first time since 1995.
But for a franchise with just 12 winning seasons in the past 40 years, a winning record was not in store for 2007. It was a lot of the same old Lions. Detroit lost seven of its final eight games, including six in a row, and finished 7-9.
But Kitna fearlessly reiterated his 10-win prediction for 2008 anyway.
"Our expectation is we will be disappointed if we don't win 10 games, because that will mean that we're not in the playoffs and that (stinks)," Kitna says. "I can't make it any simpler than that."
He isn't being bold just for the sake of it. Listen closer: "Anybody that says that's not their expectation level is unfortunately not very much of a competitor," he says.
He has a point. Who plans on an average or subpar year? At the same time, delivering on the field speaks more loudly than positive intentions. Kitna realizes that.
He will have to engineer 10 victories with a new offensive coordinator and new quarterbacks coach. Mike Martz and his pass-happy offense are gone, now with the San Francisco 49ers. Jim Colletto, a former head coach at Purdue and longtime college and pro assistant, enters his first year as an NFL offensive coordinator.
Scot Loeffler, a former University of Michigan quarterback, is in his first NFL job after six seasons as the Wolverines' quarterbacks coach. "It's really early, but he's very detailed, which is good for me because I like to know everything about a certain play or how we're doing something," Kitna says of Loeffler.
Unlike the Martz era, it won't be an air-it-out-at-all-costs system under Colletto, who wants to keep Kitna on his feet. He was sacked 114 times the past two seasons. While Detroit's passing game ranked ninth in 2007, its running game ranked 31st (80.5 yards a game). The Lions had seven games in which they rushed for fewer than 50 yards, including minus 18 at the Arizona Cardinals.
Colletto wants a consistent running game and doesn't want to rely on the pass. At the same time, he wants to give Kitna time to find his receivers. To that end, the Lions drafted tackle Gosder Cherilus in the first round — "I heard he's a mauler," Kitna says — and Central Florida tailback Kevin Smith, the second-leading single-season rusher in NCAA Division I-A history behind former Lions great Barry Sanders, in the third round.
An improved running game should free up talented wideouts Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson, who is ready for his second season after an injury-marred rookie year.
"This year, I know exactly what's happening with the offense," Johnson says. "I know what's going to go on in practice, and I know how to practice. We have a great locker-room situation. The chemistry's there."
Kitna enjoyed Martz's system but often was handcuffed at the line of scrimmage. He is expected to have more freedom to change plays this season.
"Obviously there's going to be more pressure on my position in terms of getting us into the right things at the line of scrimmage, whereas before coach Martz watched all the film and broke it down," Kitna says. "The pressure was on him to get us to the right play calls and to really be a step ahead of the defense.
"Now, it's going to be on me to be able to do that stuff at the line of scrimmage, and that counts for preparation during the week."
Defensively, Detroit is turning into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers North. Coach Rod Marinelli, defensive coordinator Joe Barry and defensive backs coach Jimmy Lake were all coaches with the Buccaneers before coming to Detroit. Now their former players are also migrating to the Motor City. And the Lions need the help. They gave up a league-worst 377.6 yards and 27.8 points a game in 2007.
Cornerback Brian Kelly spent 10 years in Tampa Bay before signing with the Lions. Safety Dwight Smith and defensive tackle Chuck Darby played for the Buccaneers from 2001 to 2004. They all have intimate knowledge of the Tampa 2 defense, a scheme based on fast players covering specific areas of the field.
"I want to shrink the width of this field. I want to narrow it with speed," Marinelli says. "The thing about speed is, when you have it, you have to be tough enough to use it all the time. That's the mental toughness."
The Lions could have six new starters on defense, including Kelly, Darby and Smith.
"I'm excited," Kelly says. "It's a lot of familiarity for me here. I've been watching the guys play for the last couple of years. There's a lot of similarities of what we do in Tampa and what they're doing here. It's a simple system … guys that believe in each other and know that this man is going to take care of his position and this guy is going to take care of his position."
Says defensive tackle Cory Redding: "Now, they just have to get familiar with us. They've been around the scheme, and they know exactly what to do. The experience is the big part. Putting the Tampa 2 system in a couple of years ago, everybody was trying to figure out where they're going to fit in, and it's tough at times.
"But you have to buy into the system because the system works."
Now, it's up to the Lions to translate ideas, schemes and words into victories — 10 of them for Kitna's sake.
AROUND THE FIELD IN DETROIT
• Quarterback: Jon Kitna, who will be 36 in September, has averaged 20 touchdown passes, 21 interceptions and more than 4,100 passing yards over the last two seasons. Expect those numbers to fall with former offensive coordinator Mike Martz gone. Drew Stanton or Dan Orlovsky could stake a claim as the quarterback of the future if Kitna falters.
• Running back: Kevin Smith ran for 2,567 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2007 at Central Florida. He'll have a golden opportunity to provide half that as a rookie. Tatum Bell returns, though he fell out of favor in 2007. Brian Calhoun will get a long look after two injury-marred seasons.
• Wide receiver: Calvin Johnson showed flashes of the potential that made him the second overall pick of the 2007 draft, but a back injury curtailed his production. Roy Williams figures to get his share of catches, but Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald are looking at reduced roles in new offensive coordinator Jim Colletto's run-oriented system.
• Tight end: Michael Gaines signed as a free agent, joining a group that includes Dan Campbell, Casey FitzSimmons and Sean McHugh. Some might have to play H-back to earn more playing time.
• Offensive line: This unit surrendered 54 sacks and the run game produced a meager 80.5 yards a game. But that was under Martz, who often fielded four or five receivers. The linemen will be drive-blocking far more under Colletto, rather than playing on their heels. Left tackle Jeff Backus hasn't missed a game in his eight-year career. Rookie tackle Gosder Cherilus should help pave the way for the running game from the right side.
• Defensive line: On paper, this group is less formidable after occasionally dominant tackle Shaun Rogers was traded to the Cleveland Browns. Tackles Cory Redding and newly signed Chuck Darby will have to step up, and Shaun Cody must show something in his fourth year. Dewayne White, Jared DeVries and Ikaika Alama-Francis are the primary ends.
• Linebacker: Ernie Sims, fourth in the NFL in tackles last year, is emerging as a force on the weak side. But after Sims, there are a lot of questions. Paris Lenon and Alex Lewis are back, but expect rookie Jordon Dizon to quickly carve out a role. Fellow rookie Cliff Avril might also earn time on the strong side or up front.
• Secondary: The Lions ranked 31st against the pass in 2007. Leigh Bodden, acquired in the Rogers trade, becomes the team's best corner. Veteran Brian Kelly, imported from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, also should start. Dwight Smith should man one safety spot, and Daniel Bullocks, back from a knee injury, will try to reclaim the other job from second-year man Gerald Alexander.
• Special teams: Ever-reliable kicker Jason Hanson is back for his 17th season in Detroit. Nick Harris holds down the punting duties. The Lions could use more pop from the return game, and rookie Kenneth Moore might get an opportunity to shine here.
• Coaching staff: Rod Marinelli notched seven wins in his second season, the Lions' best showing since 2000, though their 1-7 second half was a bitter disappointment. A disciple of the Tampa 2 defense, he continues to stock the locker room with the type of high-effort, highly disciplined players he covets. The offense will look far different under Colletto.
• Outlook: If the defense improves to the middle of the pack and the offense adapts to its new approach, the Lions can certainly be in the playoff conversation amid a wide-open NFC. If nothing else, the retirement of Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre, long a Detroit nemesis, should help the Lions be more competitive in the NFC North.
Site ranks Lions 24th in the NFL
June 27, 2008
The good news: There are eight NFL teams rated lower than the Lions by coldhardfootballfacts.com.
Of course, that makes the bad news pretty obvious. The Web site rates Detroit’s dubious achievers 24th among the league’s 32 teams, in terms of all-time performance.
There’s nothing cheesy about the Packers, though. The Web site places them tops in the league, followed by the Cowboys, the Giants, the Bears and the 49ers.
Curiously, the NFL's latest dynasty, the Patriots, are only No. 12.
The list is posted on insidebayarea.com.
The good news: There are eight NFL teams rated lower than the Lions by coldhardfootballfacts.com.
Of course, that makes the bad news pretty obvious. The Web site rates Detroit’s dubious achievers 24th among the league’s 32 teams, in terms of all-time performance.
There’s nothing cheesy about the Packers, though. The Web site places them tops in the league, followed by the Cowboys, the Giants, the Bears and the 49ers.
Curiously, the NFL's latest dynasty, the Patriots, are only No. 12.
The list is posted on insidebayarea.com.
Lions' first-round pick sentenced to probation, must pay $52,000 for bar brawl
FREE PRESS STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES • June 26, 2008
Lions rookie offensive lineman and first-round pick Gosder Cherilus was ordered Wednesday to serve one year of pretrial probation for his role in a Boston bar brawl in which a patron was seriously injured, the Boston Globe reported.
Cherilus also was ordered to pay the victim $52,000 toward his medical bills.
Cherilus and teammate DeJuan Tribble, stars at Boston College, were celebrating Cherilus’ 23rd birthday with teammates at a bar last July when they intervened in a confrontation between a patron, Sean Maney, and a State Police sergeant, Joseph Boike, a part-owner of the place.
Maney testified in Boston Municipal Court that Cherilus grabbed him in a two-arm choke hold and dragged him across the room while Boike and Tribble repeatedly punched him, according to the Boston Globe. Maney testified that he and Cherilus slammed into a table, that he lapsed in and out of consciousness, that Cherilus and Tribble kicked him, and that he suffered a spinal injury that required surgery.
Boston Municipal Court Judge Paul K. Leary ordered the players to stay away from Maney and ruled that the charges against them would be dismissed if they abide by the court order and stay out of trouble for a year. Each was charged with one count of assault and battery and one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a shod foot).
Leary issued the ruling after the players and Maney reached an agreement to resolve the case.
"The lesson I learned," Cherilus told the Globe, "is not to try to break up any more fights."
Maney also has filed a civil suit against Cherilus, Tribble, Boike, and The Greatest Bar.
This week, it was revealed rookie linebacker Jordon Dizon, the Lions’ second-round pick, was arrested six days before the NFL draft on suspicion of drunk driving, driving the wrong way on a one-way street and failure to provide insurance.
The Lions traded their 15th overall pick in the NFL draft to Kansas City, moved down to No. 17 and took Cherilus over the likes of Illinois running back Rashard Mendenhall and Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah.
Cherilus has the football character coach Rod Marinelli wants and fills an immediate need. He is a big, tough, strong lineman with a mean streak who likely can step in and start at right tackle, a position that caused problems for the Lions last season.
"Is it a glamorous guy coming in? No," Marinelli said after the draft. "But for a coach, it is."
Marinelli visited with Cherilus at the Senior Bowl and in a predraft visit at team headquarters in Allen Park. He described Cherilus as "an extremely serious guy about what he does" and said he had a good gut feeling about him.
"I love football," Cherilus said. "I'm not the type who's going to be satisfied just getting the job done. I want to go after guys and be aggressive, let them know we're very good offensive linemen. We're aggressive. We're nasty."
Lions rookie offensive lineman and first-round pick Gosder Cherilus was ordered Wednesday to serve one year of pretrial probation for his role in a Boston bar brawl in which a patron was seriously injured, the Boston Globe reported.
Cherilus also was ordered to pay the victim $52,000 toward his medical bills.
Cherilus and teammate DeJuan Tribble, stars at Boston College, were celebrating Cherilus’ 23rd birthday with teammates at a bar last July when they intervened in a confrontation between a patron, Sean Maney, and a State Police sergeant, Joseph Boike, a part-owner of the place.
Maney testified in Boston Municipal Court that Cherilus grabbed him in a two-arm choke hold and dragged him across the room while Boike and Tribble repeatedly punched him, according to the Boston Globe. Maney testified that he and Cherilus slammed into a table, that he lapsed in and out of consciousness, that Cherilus and Tribble kicked him, and that he suffered a spinal injury that required surgery.
Boston Municipal Court Judge Paul K. Leary ordered the players to stay away from Maney and ruled that the charges against them would be dismissed if they abide by the court order and stay out of trouble for a year. Each was charged with one count of assault and battery and one count of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (a shod foot).
Leary issued the ruling after the players and Maney reached an agreement to resolve the case.
"The lesson I learned," Cherilus told the Globe, "is not to try to break up any more fights."
Maney also has filed a civil suit against Cherilus, Tribble, Boike, and The Greatest Bar.
This week, it was revealed rookie linebacker Jordon Dizon, the Lions’ second-round pick, was arrested six days before the NFL draft on suspicion of drunk driving, driving the wrong way on a one-way street and failure to provide insurance.
The Lions traded their 15th overall pick in the NFL draft to Kansas City, moved down to No. 17 and took Cherilus over the likes of Illinois running back Rashard Mendenhall and Pittsburgh offensive tackle Jeff Otah.
Cherilus has the football character coach Rod Marinelli wants and fills an immediate need. He is a big, tough, strong lineman with a mean streak who likely can step in and start at right tackle, a position that caused problems for the Lions last season.
"Is it a glamorous guy coming in? No," Marinelli said after the draft. "But for a coach, it is."
Marinelli visited with Cherilus at the Senior Bowl and in a predraft visit at team headquarters in Allen Park. He described Cherilus as "an extremely serious guy about what he does" and said he had a good gut feeling about him.
"I love football," Cherilus said. "I'm not the type who's going to be satisfied just getting the job done. I want to go after guys and be aggressive, let them know we're very good offensive linemen. We're aggressive. We're nasty."
Vegas sets odds on Roy Williams hold out at 10:1
June 26, 2008
Steve Schrader's quick hits
• BetUS.com has set the odds at 10-1 that Roy Williams will hold out from training camp.
MY THOUGHTS
Wow, you really can bet on anything. I'll bet he doesnt hold out. If he was, why would he show up and practice? wouldnt we have heard something by now?
June 26, 2008
Steve Schrader's quick hits
• BetUS.com has set the odds at 10-1 that Roy Williams will hold out from training camp.
MY THOUGHTS
Wow, you really can bet on anything. I'll bet he doesnt hold out. If he was, why would he show up and practice? wouldnt we have heard something by now?
Why was Lions QB Jon Kitna using an Ohio State golf bag?
BY CARLOS MONARREZ • FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER • June 26, 2008
Attention, Michigan Wolverines. Jon Kitna needs the help of your football team on Nov. 22.
That's when Michigan visits Ohio State. If the Wolverines lose their fifth straight to the Buckeyes, the Lions quarterback faces another year of scarlet-and-gray misery because his best friend will force him to use an OSU bag, as he did during his pro-am round.
"We have a standing bet every year on the Michigan-Ohio State game," Kitna said. "The loser has to carry the opposite bag for a whole year. So that bag's been with me for two years now.
"I keep having to answer the same question over and over. But at some point, when Michigan wins, he's going to have to carry that maize-and-blue bag, and it's going to be awesome."
Attention, Michigan Wolverines. Jon Kitna needs the help of your football team on Nov. 22.
That's when Michigan visits Ohio State. If the Wolverines lose their fifth straight to the Buckeyes, the Lions quarterback faces another year of scarlet-and-gray misery because his best friend will force him to use an OSU bag, as he did during his pro-am round.
"We have a standing bet every year on the Michigan-Ohio State game," Kitna said. "The loser has to carry the opposite bag for a whole year. So that bag's been with me for two years now.
"I keep having to answer the same question over and over. But at some point, when Michigan wins, he's going to have to carry that maize-and-blue bag, and it's going to be awesome."
Herman Moore: Lions can be contenders; Scott Mitchell was good enough for us to win
FREE PRESS STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES • June 26, 2008
Former Lions wide receiver Herman Moore recently appeared on WDFN-AM (1130). Here's a portion of the interview:
When you look back on the career, obviously no Super Bowl we all know that history here in Detroit, was ‘91 your most fun year despite the Utley situation?
Moore: It was because it was the year I came into the league and it was fulfilling something that didn’t start out as a dream, but as I became better player and ended up going to college, once it became a reality, it was one of the highlights of my life, thus far, and also unfortunately there was some tragedy that had taken place with the Lions. It was a tremendous opportunity that was presented and I’m glad to have been a part of it.
You had some unbelievably successful seasons. You had the record for the catches in a year, that offense with you and Brett (Perriman) and Johnnie (Morton) and some running back named Barry. When you look back at it you guys were pretty good but you couldn’t get over that hump.
Moore: I can’t understand why. When you look at the other teams and the talent they had I think we just made very costly mistakes at critical times, throughout our career, and we were supposed to go to the next level and unfortunately we never quite got there. We definitely, without a doubt, had the talent. We had the individuals who were capable of allowing us to, really propelling us to the next level. Unfortunately for that era and that team we never quite did it and it’s unfortunate because if you look back at the players we had, we had some great players and we had some guys that were very dedicated and believed in what we were doing. That’s what happens, but you don’t live and regret. I look at the Lions right now they’ve had some very disappointing seasons over the last few years, but every year there’s optimism. I think they have a fairly good amount of talent especially in some key areas. If they can fill some voids and do it quickly I think they can be contenders.
Contenders this year?
Moore: I don’t know if they can be contenders this year they got off to a great start last year and had what was considered a collapse on the second half of the season. Once you have that feeling no matter how you got to 6-2, I think they’re going to be very hungry to get back to that point and to get off to a great start I think coach is going to do a great job motivating them, because they know what it feels like. They have that taste, once you get that, I think they needed that. Although they had the collapse I think it will be enough to get them off to a great start this year especially if the pieces will fall in place.
I know you had some good years with Scott Mitchell but do you think if you guys had a really good quarterback it would’ve made a difference?
Moore: A lot of people want to bash Scott; I will admit Scott and I are friends. Scott had some critical mistakes at the worst times that you could imagine, but I think he was good enough for us to win. I’ll use Rex Grossman as an example. Chicago, they did a tremendous job of putting an extraordinary defense out on the field, it propelled them, it allowed them to make the Super Bowl, unfortunately they had to have some offense to win the Super Bowl but they didn’t have that piece but you can get there. I think Scott Mitchell was a better quarterback than Rex. We had enough to get there, but unfortunately, once you get to the playoffs you don’t have a second chance. If you don’t win those games, which we were in the playoffs quite a few times during our tenure, we just unfortunately didn’t win any games; we didn’t win any of them.
Former Lions wide receiver Herman Moore recently appeared on WDFN-AM (1130). Here's a portion of the interview:
When you look back on the career, obviously no Super Bowl we all know that history here in Detroit, was ‘91 your most fun year despite the Utley situation?
Moore: It was because it was the year I came into the league and it was fulfilling something that didn’t start out as a dream, but as I became better player and ended up going to college, once it became a reality, it was one of the highlights of my life, thus far, and also unfortunately there was some tragedy that had taken place with the Lions. It was a tremendous opportunity that was presented and I’m glad to have been a part of it.
You had some unbelievably successful seasons. You had the record for the catches in a year, that offense with you and Brett (Perriman) and Johnnie (Morton) and some running back named Barry. When you look back at it you guys were pretty good but you couldn’t get over that hump.
Moore: I can’t understand why. When you look at the other teams and the talent they had I think we just made very costly mistakes at critical times, throughout our career, and we were supposed to go to the next level and unfortunately we never quite got there. We definitely, without a doubt, had the talent. We had the individuals who were capable of allowing us to, really propelling us to the next level. Unfortunately for that era and that team we never quite did it and it’s unfortunate because if you look back at the players we had, we had some great players and we had some guys that were very dedicated and believed in what we were doing. That’s what happens, but you don’t live and regret. I look at the Lions right now they’ve had some very disappointing seasons over the last few years, but every year there’s optimism. I think they have a fairly good amount of talent especially in some key areas. If they can fill some voids and do it quickly I think they can be contenders.
Contenders this year?
Moore: I don’t know if they can be contenders this year they got off to a great start last year and had what was considered a collapse on the second half of the season. Once you have that feeling no matter how you got to 6-2, I think they’re going to be very hungry to get back to that point and to get off to a great start I think coach is going to do a great job motivating them, because they know what it feels like. They have that taste, once you get that, I think they needed that. Although they had the collapse I think it will be enough to get them off to a great start this year especially if the pieces will fall in place.
I know you had some good years with Scott Mitchell but do you think if you guys had a really good quarterback it would’ve made a difference?
Moore: A lot of people want to bash Scott; I will admit Scott and I are friends. Scott had some critical mistakes at the worst times that you could imagine, but I think he was good enough for us to win. I’ll use Rex Grossman as an example. Chicago, they did a tremendous job of putting an extraordinary defense out on the field, it propelled them, it allowed them to make the Super Bowl, unfortunately they had to have some offense to win the Super Bowl but they didn’t have that piece but you can get there. I think Scott Mitchell was a better quarterback than Rex. We had enough to get there, but unfortunately, once you get to the playoffs you don’t have a second chance. If you don’t win those games, which we were in the playoffs quite a few times during our tenure, we just unfortunately didn’t win any games; we didn’t win any of them.
Joey Harrington rated the worst QB in NFL history
FREE PRESS STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES • June 25, 2008
Chase Stuart of Pro-football-reference.com recently updated his list of the worst NFL quarterbacks of all time. He originally created the list in 2006, but updated it to reflect recent stats. The list is made entirely off statistical evaluation. Here are the 10 QB's who topped the list:
1. Joey Harrington
2. Rick Mirer
3. David Carr
4. Ryan Leaf
5. Frank Tripucka
6. Mike Taliaferro
7. Gary Huff
8. Kim McQuilken
9. Alex Smith
10. Kent Nix
After the list, Stuart made this clarification about Harrington:
To be clear, Joey Harrington probably isn’t the worst quarterback of all time in an absolute sense. But in terms of being so far below average, but far enough above miserable to earn more playing time, Joey Harrington hurt his team more than any other QB in NFL history. If Harrington had been worse, he would have played less, and he wouldn’t have set back the teams he played on. To put it another way, if you had the choice of getting Joey Harrington for 2,538 attempts, or Roger Goodell for 9 attempts you would certainly choose Goodell. At least after he’s gone, your team has a chance.
Chase Stuart of Pro-football-reference.com recently updated his list of the worst NFL quarterbacks of all time. He originally created the list in 2006, but updated it to reflect recent stats. The list is made entirely off statistical evaluation. Here are the 10 QB's who topped the list:
1. Joey Harrington
2. Rick Mirer
3. David Carr
4. Ryan Leaf
5. Frank Tripucka
6. Mike Taliaferro
7. Gary Huff
8. Kim McQuilken
9. Alex Smith
10. Kent Nix
After the list, Stuart made this clarification about Harrington:
To be clear, Joey Harrington probably isn’t the worst quarterback of all time in an absolute sense. But in terms of being so far below average, but far enough above miserable to earn more playing time, Joey Harrington hurt his team more than any other QB in NFL history. If Harrington had been worse, he would have played less, and he wouldn’t have set back the teams he played on. To put it another way, if you had the choice of getting Joey Harrington for 2,538 attempts, or Roger Goodell for 9 attempts you would certainly choose Goodell. At least after he’s gone, your team has a chance.
Scouting Report: Sean McHugh
by Tom Kowalski
Sunday June 29, 2008, 12:05 AM
SEAN MCHUGH
2008 Scouting Report
When discussing the running back position during the off-season, coordinator Jim Colletto said something interesting. He said the coaches still haven't decided whether it's going to be "three-three or four-two.'' What Colletto means is that they're not sure yet whether the Lions will keep three tailbacks and three fullbacks or four tailbacks and two fullbacks.
Here's where it gets interesting, especially for a guy like Sean McHugh, who is currently listed as a fullback and would likely be that No. 3 fullback. The reason the Lions would consider three fullbacks is because that guy would have to be versatile and play another position, too. And that fits McHugh, who could also play tight end.
However, that could also include tight ends Michael Gaines and Casey FitzSimmons, who are also taking some time at the fullback position.
McHugh is going to have to distinguish himself at fullback, where he fits the new blocking scheme because he can block with power on the inside but also has enough agility for the change-of-direction stuff they want on the fly. McHugh is a decent receiver, but that's not how he's going to make the roster. McHugh has to prove that he can be the most flexible and efficient between the two positions. He also needs to keep improving on special teams.
Sunday June 29, 2008, 12:05 AM
SEAN MCHUGH
2008 Scouting Report
When discussing the running back position during the off-season, coordinator Jim Colletto said something interesting. He said the coaches still haven't decided whether it's going to be "three-three or four-two.'' What Colletto means is that they're not sure yet whether the Lions will keep three tailbacks and three fullbacks or four tailbacks and two fullbacks.
Here's where it gets interesting, especially for a guy like Sean McHugh, who is currently listed as a fullback and would likely be that No. 3 fullback. The reason the Lions would consider three fullbacks is because that guy would have to be versatile and play another position, too. And that fits McHugh, who could also play tight end.
However, that could also include tight ends Michael Gaines and Casey FitzSimmons, who are also taking some time at the fullback position.
McHugh is going to have to distinguish himself at fullback, where he fits the new blocking scheme because he can block with power on the inside but also has enough agility for the change-of-direction stuff they want on the fly. McHugh is a decent receiver, but that's not how he's going to make the roster. McHugh has to prove that he can be the most flexible and efficient between the two positions. He also needs to keep improving on special teams.
Lions attend Kevin Jones workout
by The Associated Press
Saturday June 28, 2008, 8:48 PM
Saline — Kevin Jones went through a workout Saturday in Saline and four NFL teams watched the running back sprint and cut just five months after major knee surgery.
Dr. D.S. Ping -- who has been helping Jones rehabilitate his right knee -- said the Miami Dolphins, Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions sent representatives.
The Cleveland Browns called, Ping said, and asked for a video of the workout
Jones did a shuttle run on wet grass in 4.3 seconds, ran around cones and caught passes.
"All the teams basically said they were amazed by what Kevin can do," Ping said.
The Lions cut their former first-round pick in March with one year left on his contract after he hurt his knee late last season, adding to the injury woes that have stunted his success in the league.
Jones missed the first two games last season recovering from a foot injury that also sidelined him for the last three games of 2006. He ran for at least 70 yards in five games, including a season-high 105, before hurting his knee Dec. 23 against the Chiefs.
A few months later, the Lions released him.
The franchise was interested enough, though, to send director of pro personnel Sheldon White about 45 minutes west of Detroit to witness the workout.
"Sheldon said what impressed him was Kevin's burst after standing still," Ping recalled. "He also liked how Kevin picked himself up and finished a drill when he slipped on the grass that was really slick because of a lot of rain."
Ron Hughes, the Steelers' college scouting coordinator, was also impressed.
"Ron told me he thought Kevin ran really well," Ping said.
Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery on Jones' right knee in January and told him it would take up to 10 months to get back on the field. Jones, though, expects to go through non-contact drills during training camp with the team that signs him.
"I honestly feel like I'm ready to play right now," Jones insisted earlier this month.
Jones has said New England, Chicago, Green Bay, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, Denver, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Buffalo and the New York Jets were among the teams showing interest in him.
Jones is vying for a job along with free agent running backs such as Shaun Alexander, Chris Henry, Ron Dayne and Cedric Benson.
He ran for 3,000-plus yards over four seasons in Detroit, including 1,133 yards as a rookie in 2004.
Saturday June 28, 2008, 8:48 PM
Saline — Kevin Jones went through a workout Saturday in Saline and four NFL teams watched the running back sprint and cut just five months after major knee surgery.
Dr. D.S. Ping -- who has been helping Jones rehabilitate his right knee -- said the Miami Dolphins, Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions sent representatives.
The Cleveland Browns called, Ping said, and asked for a video of the workout
Jones did a shuttle run on wet grass in 4.3 seconds, ran around cones and caught passes.
"All the teams basically said they were amazed by what Kevin can do," Ping said.
The Lions cut their former first-round pick in March with one year left on his contract after he hurt his knee late last season, adding to the injury woes that have stunted his success in the league.
Jones missed the first two games last season recovering from a foot injury that also sidelined him for the last three games of 2006. He ran for at least 70 yards in five games, including a season-high 105, before hurting his knee Dec. 23 against the Chiefs.
A few months later, the Lions released him.
The franchise was interested enough, though, to send director of pro personnel Sheldon White about 45 minutes west of Detroit to witness the workout.
"Sheldon said what impressed him was Kevin's burst after standing still," Ping recalled. "He also liked how Kevin picked himself up and finished a drill when he slipped on the grass that was really slick because of a lot of rain."
Ron Hughes, the Steelers' college scouting coordinator, was also impressed.
"Ron told me he thought Kevin ran really well," Ping said.
Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery on Jones' right knee in January and told him it would take up to 10 months to get back on the field. Jones, though, expects to go through non-contact drills during training camp with the team that signs him.
"I honestly feel like I'm ready to play right now," Jones insisted earlier this month.
Jones has said New England, Chicago, Green Bay, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, Denver, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Buffalo and the New York Jets were among the teams showing interest in him.
Jones is vying for a job along with free agent running backs such as Shaun Alexander, Chris Henry, Ron Dayne and Cedric Benson.
He ran for 3,000-plus yards over four seasons in Detroit, including 1,133 yards as a rookie in 2004.
Scouting Report: Anthony Cannon
by Tom Kowalski
Saturday June 28, 2008, 12:03 AM
ANTHONY CANNON
2008 Scouting Report
Cannon is going to be pressured this training camp by veteran Gilbert Gardner, who has a little bit more playing experience. The two players are competing for the backup weakside linebacker spot behind Ernie Sims.
Cannon hasn't gotten much playing time, but that's because Sims has been so durable in the first couple of years and hasn't given Cannon many opportunities. The Lions coaching staff remains high on Cannon, though, and likes his progress so far. Cannon has good speed and hits well but consistency remains an issue.
Cannon finished fifth on the team in special teams tackles despite missing five games early in the season with a hamstring injury. Essentially, that's where Cannon has to make his move in winning the backup job and, with the roster as tight as it's going to be, there's no guarantee the Lions are going to keep seven linebackers. Those preseason snaps - on defense as well as special teams - are going to be crucial in sizing up this competition.
Saturday June 28, 2008, 12:03 AM
ANTHONY CANNON
2008 Scouting Report
Cannon is going to be pressured this training camp by veteran Gilbert Gardner, who has a little bit more playing experience. The two players are competing for the backup weakside linebacker spot behind Ernie Sims.
Cannon hasn't gotten much playing time, but that's because Sims has been so durable in the first couple of years and hasn't given Cannon many opportunities. The Lions coaching staff remains high on Cannon, though, and likes his progress so far. Cannon has good speed and hits well but consistency remains an issue.
Cannon finished fifth on the team in special teams tackles despite missing five games early in the season with a hamstring injury. Essentially, that's where Cannon has to make his move in winning the backup job and, with the roster as tight as it's going to be, there's no guarantee the Lions are going to keep seven linebackers. Those preseason snaps - on defense as well as special teams - are going to be crucial in sizing up this competition.
Scouting Report: Shaun McDonald
by Tom Kowalski
Friday June 27, 2008, 12:04 AM
SHAUN MCDONALD
2008 Scouting Report
While he won't top the career-high 79 catches that he had last season because of the change in offensive philosophy, McDonald is still Detroit's No. 3 receiver and should get a lot of looks on third down.
He had a reputation of a guy who wouldn't catch the ball in traffic over the middle, but he's clearly done away with that perception. McDonald doesn't have great speed, but he has very elusive quickness and led the Lions receivers in acquiring first downs last season.
McDonald has missed all of the off-season workouts after having minor knee surgery but he's expected to be completely healthy for the start of training camp.
While McDonald will be in the slot for almost all of Detroit's three-wide sets, he probably wouldn't replace Roy Williams or Calvin Johnson in the starting lineup if they miss any time. While Mike Furrey doesn't have McDonald's speed, he appears to be a better fit on the outside where he can do a better job of challenging cornerbacks for deep balls.
McDonald's value is on the inside where he does a good job of using his quickness and smarts to get open. McDonald has seen enough defenses to know where the soft zones are and he's good at exploiting them.
Friday June 27, 2008, 12:04 AM
SHAUN MCDONALD
2008 Scouting Report
While he won't top the career-high 79 catches that he had last season because of the change in offensive philosophy, McDonald is still Detroit's No. 3 receiver and should get a lot of looks on third down.
He had a reputation of a guy who wouldn't catch the ball in traffic over the middle, but he's clearly done away with that perception. McDonald doesn't have great speed, but he has very elusive quickness and led the Lions receivers in acquiring first downs last season.
McDonald has missed all of the off-season workouts after having minor knee surgery but he's expected to be completely healthy for the start of training camp.
While McDonald will be in the slot for almost all of Detroit's three-wide sets, he probably wouldn't replace Roy Williams or Calvin Johnson in the starting lineup if they miss any time. While Mike Furrey doesn't have McDonald's speed, he appears to be a better fit on the outside where he can do a better job of challenging cornerbacks for deep balls.
McDonald's value is on the inside where he does a good job of using his quickness and smarts to get open. McDonald has seen enough defenses to know where the soft zones are and he's good at exploiting them.
Gosder Cherilus sentenced to probation for role in 2007 bar brawl
Posted by Justin Rogers | MLive.com June 26, 2008 13:07PM
Categories: Statewide
Detroit Lions' first round draft pick, Gosder Cherilus, has been ordered to serve one year of probation, and was fined $52,000, for his role in a 2007 bar brawl. Sean Maney, the victim in the case, suffered a broken neck during the altercation.
June 26, Boston Globe: Maney, 29, a software engineer from Watertown, testified in a preliminary hearing that Cherilus grabbed him in a choke hold and dragged him across a dance floor before they crashed into a table. Maney said Cherilus and Tribble punched and kicked him while he lay on the ground.
"I thought I was going to die up there that night," he testified.
Cherilus, a 6-foot-7-inch, 314-pound offensive tackle who was selected 17th overall by the Detroit Lions, said in a Globe interview soon after the incident that he did not harm Maney and was acting solely as a peacemaker. Tribble, a 5-9, 190-pound cornerback who was drafted in the sixth round by the San Diego Chargers, also told the Globe he did nothing wrong.
"The lesson I learned," Cherilus said last year, "is not to try to break up any more fights."
Categories: Statewide
Detroit Lions' first round draft pick, Gosder Cherilus, has been ordered to serve one year of probation, and was fined $52,000, for his role in a 2007 bar brawl. Sean Maney, the victim in the case, suffered a broken neck during the altercation.
June 26, Boston Globe: Maney, 29, a software engineer from Watertown, testified in a preliminary hearing that Cherilus grabbed him in a choke hold and dragged him across a dance floor before they crashed into a table. Maney said Cherilus and Tribble punched and kicked him while he lay on the ground.
"I thought I was going to die up there that night," he testified.
Cherilus, a 6-foot-7-inch, 314-pound offensive tackle who was selected 17th overall by the Detroit Lions, said in a Globe interview soon after the incident that he did not harm Maney and was acting solely as a peacemaker. Tribble, a 5-9, 190-pound cornerback who was drafted in the sixth round by the San Diego Chargers, also told the Globe he did nothing wrong.
"The lesson I learned," Cherilus said last year, "is not to try to break up any more fights."
Scouting Report: Aveion Cason
by Tom Kowalski
Thursday June 26, 2008, 12:03 AM
AVEION CASON
2008 Scouting Report
In breaking down Aveion Cason, there is nothing that he does with great productivity, but there are a lot of things which he does efficiently and that's why he always seems to find his way onto a roster. Cason has played seven years in the NFL but only has five career starts.
Cason has enough speed to run the ball, he's quick and smart and can be a good receiver out of the backfield, he can cover on special teams and he can also return kickoffs.
Cason might find it hard to land a spot on Detroit's roster this season for two reasons: There is a lot of competition at that spot (with players who share much of the same versatility) and coordinator Mike Martz is no longer in town. Cason, who played for Martz in St. Louis, had an advantage over other backs because of his knowledge of the system. Cason, though, doesn't have that edge anymore.
Still, Cason has three factors working in his favor and they are, in order, experience, versatility and speed. Tatum Bell is fast, too, but he doesn't have Cason's versatility. Brian Calhoun is fast, too, but he doesn't have Cason's experience or dependability. But, because Cason doesn't have that one big skill that he can hang his hat on, he'll always be expendable.
If Cason doesn't make the 53-man roster, though, don't write him off. Cason never seems to have as much value on the final cutdown date as he does when the games actually begin and coaches begin scrambling for versatile guys who have done it before.
Thursday June 26, 2008, 12:03 AM
AVEION CASON
2008 Scouting Report
In breaking down Aveion Cason, there is nothing that he does with great productivity, but there are a lot of things which he does efficiently and that's why he always seems to find his way onto a roster. Cason has played seven years in the NFL but only has five career starts.
Cason has enough speed to run the ball, he's quick and smart and can be a good receiver out of the backfield, he can cover on special teams and he can also return kickoffs.
Cason might find it hard to land a spot on Detroit's roster this season for two reasons: There is a lot of competition at that spot (with players who share much of the same versatility) and coordinator Mike Martz is no longer in town. Cason, who played for Martz in St. Louis, had an advantage over other backs because of his knowledge of the system. Cason, though, doesn't have that edge anymore.
Still, Cason has three factors working in his favor and they are, in order, experience, versatility and speed. Tatum Bell is fast, too, but he doesn't have Cason's versatility. Brian Calhoun is fast, too, but he doesn't have Cason's experience or dependability. But, because Cason doesn't have that one big skill that he can hang his hat on, he'll always be expendable.
If Cason doesn't make the 53-man roster, though, don't write him off. Cason never seems to have as much value on the final cutdown date as he does when the games actually begin and coaches begin scrambling for versatile guys who have done it before.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Lions bagging aerial circus for blue-collar offensive approach
By Kevin Seifert
ESPN.com
Updated: June 24, 2008
Lions coach Rod Marinelli, left, is hoping a simple approach (solid defense combined with a grind-it-out running game) translates into enough victories to make a playoff run in 2008.
The feeling in Detroit is that coach Rod Marinelli finally has collected a group of core players who espouse his blue-collar, hard-working attitude. Whether that revelation will translate into more victories in 2008 is a matter for debate.
Marinelli will implement a simplified offense and is bringing at least five new defensive starters with him to training camp. Although it is hard to judge actual progress before contact drills begin in training camp, multiple players noted a more positive atmosphere during practices this spring.
What we learned in minicamp
After firing offensive coordinator Mike Martz and promoting offensive line coach Jim Colletto, the Lions are following through on their plan to emphasize the running game. Colletto is installing a new zone-blocking scheme, which gives linemen an area of responsibility rather than a specific player.
NFL.com Video
Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says he likes the attitude of his young players.
Such transitions take time, and it's only fair to assume that the Lions' offensive line will be a work in progress during training camp. Detroit has the veterans necessary to make this style work -- especially on the left side with tackle Jeff Backus and guard Edwin Mulitalo. Rookie right tackle Gosder Cherilus faces a stiff learning curve, but the Lions plan to throw him into the starting lineup immediately.
On the flip side, Colletto gave players far less verbiage to worry about during spring practices. Martz's playbook has been pared down considerably, and Colletto is emphasizing quality over quantity. Repetition was a key area of emphasis during minicamp.
Marinelli also appears to have added some stability to his defense by signing several players -- including cornerback Brian Kelly and safety Dwight Smith -- who have experience in his Tampa 2 scheme.
Still unresolved
We all know the Lions want to run the ball more this season. But after the departures ofveterans Kevin Jones and T.J. Duckett, can you name the remaining members of the Lions' backfield? If so, congratulations. It's no easy task.
For now, veteran Tatum Bell has been penciled in as the starting tailback, based on his success in a zone-blocking scheme while playing in Denver. But it wouldn't be a surprise to see rookie Kevin Smith -- a third-round pick from Central Florida -- emerge as a candidate for the starting job during training camp.
Smith has the kind of warrior mentality that appeals to Marinelli. Smith refers to his offseason workouts as building "armor" for the season and is proud of his physical style -- one that would fit well into the ball-control offense Marinelli is envisioning.
In addition to Smith and Bell, another candidate for the job is Brian Calhoun, a former third-round pick who has struggled with knee injuries.
Injury analysis
Two key defensive players -- linebacker Ernie Sims and defensive lineman Cory Redding -- had arthroscopic shoulder surgery during the offseason and didn't spend much time on the practice field in minicamp. The Lions downplayed their surgeries, calling them cleanup procedures, and said both players would be ready for training camp.
Sims is one of the team's best players and occupies the premier playmaking position in this defense at weakside linebacker. He hasn't missed a game in two seasons with the Lions and it would be a serious blow if he loses playing time.
Time for stepping up
Although the Lions want to re-emphasize the running game, much of their personnel remains geared toward Martz's passing offense. Potentially, the Lions could have one of the league's best receiving duos in Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson.
Lions fans sometimes are frustrated with Williams' inconsistency, and there were rumors that Detroit considered trading him before the draft. But it appears Williams will go to training camp with the Lions, and in reality, the bigger issue facing the team's passing offense is Johnson's development.
Considered a can't-miss prospect, Johnson had a relatively quiet rookie season in 2007. He caught 48 passes but is convinced that a back injury limited his progress for most of the year.
Johnson has been healthy this spring and is determined to give the Lions the kind of downfield playmaker they thought he would be when they drafted him. The Lions' scaled-back playbook could benefit Johnson as much as anyone, and he said during spring practices that he felt far more comfortable in the offense.
Training camp start date: July 23
ESPN.com
Updated: June 24, 2008
Lions coach Rod Marinelli, left, is hoping a simple approach (solid defense combined with a grind-it-out running game) translates into enough victories to make a playoff run in 2008.
The feeling in Detroit is that coach Rod Marinelli finally has collected a group of core players who espouse his blue-collar, hard-working attitude. Whether that revelation will translate into more victories in 2008 is a matter for debate.
Marinelli will implement a simplified offense and is bringing at least five new defensive starters with him to training camp. Although it is hard to judge actual progress before contact drills begin in training camp, multiple players noted a more positive atmosphere during practices this spring.
What we learned in minicamp
After firing offensive coordinator Mike Martz and promoting offensive line coach Jim Colletto, the Lions are following through on their plan to emphasize the running game. Colletto is installing a new zone-blocking scheme, which gives linemen an area of responsibility rather than a specific player.
NFL.com Video
Lions head coach Rod Marinelli says he likes the attitude of his young players.
Such transitions take time, and it's only fair to assume that the Lions' offensive line will be a work in progress during training camp. Detroit has the veterans necessary to make this style work -- especially on the left side with tackle Jeff Backus and guard Edwin Mulitalo. Rookie right tackle Gosder Cherilus faces a stiff learning curve, but the Lions plan to throw him into the starting lineup immediately.
On the flip side, Colletto gave players far less verbiage to worry about during spring practices. Martz's playbook has been pared down considerably, and Colletto is emphasizing quality over quantity. Repetition was a key area of emphasis during minicamp.
Marinelli also appears to have added some stability to his defense by signing several players -- including cornerback Brian Kelly and safety Dwight Smith -- who have experience in his Tampa 2 scheme.
Still unresolved
We all know the Lions want to run the ball more this season. But after the departures ofveterans Kevin Jones and T.J. Duckett, can you name the remaining members of the Lions' backfield? If so, congratulations. It's no easy task.
For now, veteran Tatum Bell has been penciled in as the starting tailback, based on his success in a zone-blocking scheme while playing in Denver. But it wouldn't be a surprise to see rookie Kevin Smith -- a third-round pick from Central Florida -- emerge as a candidate for the starting job during training camp.
Smith has the kind of warrior mentality that appeals to Marinelli. Smith refers to his offseason workouts as building "armor" for the season and is proud of his physical style -- one that would fit well into the ball-control offense Marinelli is envisioning.
In addition to Smith and Bell, another candidate for the job is Brian Calhoun, a former third-round pick who has struggled with knee injuries.
Injury analysis
Two key defensive players -- linebacker Ernie Sims and defensive lineman Cory Redding -- had arthroscopic shoulder surgery during the offseason and didn't spend much time on the practice field in minicamp. The Lions downplayed their surgeries, calling them cleanup procedures, and said both players would be ready for training camp.
Sims is one of the team's best players and occupies the premier playmaking position in this defense at weakside linebacker. He hasn't missed a game in two seasons with the Lions and it would be a serious blow if he loses playing time.
Time for stepping up
Although the Lions want to re-emphasize the running game, much of their personnel remains geared toward Martz's passing offense. Potentially, the Lions could have one of the league's best receiving duos in Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson.
Lions fans sometimes are frustrated with Williams' inconsistency, and there were rumors that Detroit considered trading him before the draft. But it appears Williams will go to training camp with the Lions, and in reality, the bigger issue facing the team's passing offense is Johnson's development.
Considered a can't-miss prospect, Johnson had a relatively quiet rookie season in 2007. He caught 48 passes but is convinced that a back injury limited his progress for most of the year.
Johnson has been healthy this spring and is determined to give the Lions the kind of downfield playmaker they thought he would be when they drafted him. The Lions' scaled-back playbook could benefit Johnson as much as anyone, and he said during spring practices that he felt far more comfortable in the offense.
Training camp start date: July 23
Scouting Report: Cory Redding
by Tom Kowalski
Wednesday June 25, 2008, 12:06 AM
CORY REDDING
2008 Scouting Report
Redding is coming off two seasons that couldn't be more different. In 2006, after being moved from defensive end to the "three technique'' tackle position, he prospered in the 11 starts at this new position. He had eight sacks and no tackle in the game had more. Redding was very active, disruptive and showed up on film everywhere.
Last year, after a rough off-season with the franchise tag, Redding was mediocre. He showed flashes, but that sustained brilliance was missing and he recorded just one sack.
There is a temptation to believe that once Redding got the big money, he no longer had the hunger or drive and that his game reflected it. Knowing Redding's core values, though, that isn't likely to be the case. The contract stuff did affect him, but it did so in terms of off-season workouts (which he missed) and his attitude (which was a little bitter at the start).
Redding still has the motivation to be one of the best at the position and, interestingly, the loss of fellow tackle Shaun Rogers shouldn't hurt him. It doesn't really make sense from a logical standpoint, but the numbers don't lie - Redding was much more effective when Rogers was out of the game.
This year, Redding will most likely be lining up with veteran Chuck Darby, a solid run defender who isn't going to draw a lot of double-teams. But getting doubled didn't limit Redding in 2006 when he turned in his monster year. If the Lions are going to get any production out of their defensive line this year, Redding knows it has to start with him in the middle. He has to use that quick first step and his massive strength to collapse the middle and give his outside rushers a chance to get to the quarterback.
(By the way, the "three technique'' tackle means that he lines up on the outside shoulder of the guard (between the guard and tackle) -- regardless of whether he's on the strong or weak side of the formation. The nose tackle lines up at the "one'' -- which means he's positioned over the center's shoulder.)
Wednesday June 25, 2008, 12:06 AM
CORY REDDING
2008 Scouting Report
Redding is coming off two seasons that couldn't be more different. In 2006, after being moved from defensive end to the "three technique'' tackle position, he prospered in the 11 starts at this new position. He had eight sacks and no tackle in the game had more. Redding was very active, disruptive and showed up on film everywhere.
Last year, after a rough off-season with the franchise tag, Redding was mediocre. He showed flashes, but that sustained brilliance was missing and he recorded just one sack.
There is a temptation to believe that once Redding got the big money, he no longer had the hunger or drive and that his game reflected it. Knowing Redding's core values, though, that isn't likely to be the case. The contract stuff did affect him, but it did so in terms of off-season workouts (which he missed) and his attitude (which was a little bitter at the start).
Redding still has the motivation to be one of the best at the position and, interestingly, the loss of fellow tackle Shaun Rogers shouldn't hurt him. It doesn't really make sense from a logical standpoint, but the numbers don't lie - Redding was much more effective when Rogers was out of the game.
This year, Redding will most likely be lining up with veteran Chuck Darby, a solid run defender who isn't going to draw a lot of double-teams. But getting doubled didn't limit Redding in 2006 when he turned in his monster year. If the Lions are going to get any production out of their defensive line this year, Redding knows it has to start with him in the middle. He has to use that quick first step and his massive strength to collapse the middle and give his outside rushers a chance to get to the quarterback.
(By the way, the "three technique'' tackle means that he lines up on the outside shoulder of the guard (between the guard and tackle) -- regardless of whether he's on the strong or weak side of the formation. The nose tackle lines up at the "one'' -- which means he's positioned over the center's shoulder.)
Report: Lions rookie LB Dizon charged with DUI
Posted by Philip Zaroo | MLive.com June 24, 2008 10:49AM
Categories: Breaking News, Statewide
Mike Itchue | MLive.com
The Daily Camera reports that rookie LB Jordon Dizon was arrested in Boulder, Colo. six days before the Detroit Lions made him their second-round draft pick.Jordon Dizon, the Detroit Lions' rookie linebacker from Colorado, is being charged with a DUI in Boulder, according to the Daily Camera. The 22-year-old was arrested on April 20 – six days before being drafted by the Lions in the second round – for driving the wrong way down a one-way street, and reportedly had a blood-alcohol level of .097 (.08 is the legal limit).
Though he told the newspaper he regrets the incident, Dizon has plead not guilty and directed all questions to his attorney, Peter Schaffer.
Daily Camera, June 23: "I was very polite to the officer. I did everything he asked me to and I acted like a man," Dizon said. "It's a bad situation and I'm sorry that it happened."
According to Boulder police records, officers found Dizon parked facing south on northbound 13th Street, near Walnut Street, at 2 a.m. April 20. Police officers said Dizon was cooperative and told them he had only stopped briefly to pick up a friend.
Police observed the smell of alcohol on Dizon's breath and asked him to consent to voluntary roadside tests, according to the report. Dizon admitted to drinking two margaritas earlier in the evening, according to police records.
Schaffer said his client passed a breathalyzer test, but there is no mention in the arrest report of such a test being administered.
Officers arrested Dizon and he later consented to a blood test.
Categories: Breaking News, Statewide
Mike Itchue | MLive.com
The Daily Camera reports that rookie LB Jordon Dizon was arrested in Boulder, Colo. six days before the Detroit Lions made him their second-round draft pick.Jordon Dizon, the Detroit Lions' rookie linebacker from Colorado, is being charged with a DUI in Boulder, according to the Daily Camera. The 22-year-old was arrested on April 20 – six days before being drafted by the Lions in the second round – for driving the wrong way down a one-way street, and reportedly had a blood-alcohol level of .097 (.08 is the legal limit).
Though he told the newspaper he regrets the incident, Dizon has plead not guilty and directed all questions to his attorney, Peter Schaffer.
Daily Camera, June 23: "I was very polite to the officer. I did everything he asked me to and I acted like a man," Dizon said. "It's a bad situation and I'm sorry that it happened."
According to Boulder police records, officers found Dizon parked facing south on northbound 13th Street, near Walnut Street, at 2 a.m. April 20. Police officers said Dizon was cooperative and told them he had only stopped briefly to pick up a friend.
Police observed the smell of alcohol on Dizon's breath and asked him to consent to voluntary roadside tests, according to the report. Dizon admitted to drinking two margaritas earlier in the evening, according to police records.
Schaffer said his client passed a breathalyzer test, but there is no mention in the arrest report of such a test being administered.
Officers arrested Dizon and he later consented to a blood test.
Scouting Report: Edwin Mulitalo
by Tom Kowalski
Tuesday June 24, 2008, 12:02 AM
EDWIN MULITALO
2008 Scouting Report
When the Lions signed Mulitalo as a free agent last season, they did so because they wanted to add more bulk and muscle at the left guard position. It's going to be interesting to see how Mulitalo adapts to Detroit's new zone-blocking scheme that puts a premium on movement and agility.
Mulitalo has had those skills in the past - it's not the strength of his game, but he can do it. The big question, though, is whether he's still good enough and agile enough entering his 10th NFL season. Regardless, don't expect Mulitalo to be in jeopardy of losing his starting position.
Remember, coordinator Jim Colletto coached him when they were with the Ravens so Colletto has a very good idea of what he can do on the run and the scheme will reflect that.
A better run blocker than pass protector, Mulitalo sometimes has issues with stunts and games, but he's very difficult to bullrush. He can be beat with a quick first step, but if he recovers and gets his hands up, he can be tough against a counter move.
Perhaps the best thing about Mulitalo is that he brings some stability to a position that has been a revolving door for the last six or seven years. While Mulitalo might not be the perfect fit at this point, he's definitely good enough to win with and and he's another guy who adds some attitude and toughness to the team.
Tuesday June 24, 2008, 12:02 AM
EDWIN MULITALO
2008 Scouting Report
When the Lions signed Mulitalo as a free agent last season, they did so because they wanted to add more bulk and muscle at the left guard position. It's going to be interesting to see how Mulitalo adapts to Detroit's new zone-blocking scheme that puts a premium on movement and agility.
Mulitalo has had those skills in the past - it's not the strength of his game, but he can do it. The big question, though, is whether he's still good enough and agile enough entering his 10th NFL season. Regardless, don't expect Mulitalo to be in jeopardy of losing his starting position.
Remember, coordinator Jim Colletto coached him when they were with the Ravens so Colletto has a very good idea of what he can do on the run and the scheme will reflect that.
A better run blocker than pass protector, Mulitalo sometimes has issues with stunts and games, but he's very difficult to bullrush. He can be beat with a quick first step, but if he recovers and gets his hands up, he can be tough against a counter move.
Perhaps the best thing about Mulitalo is that he brings some stability to a position that has been a revolving door for the last six or seven years. While Mulitalo might not be the perfect fit at this point, he's definitely good enough to win with and and he's another guy who adds some attitude and toughness to the team.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Still Going Strong
As the Franchise Celebrates 75 Seasons, Hanson Remains a Key Piece to the Puzzle
By Chrissie Wywrot
Detroitlions.com
June 20, 2008
Hanson was part of the press conference announcing the franchise celebration of 75 seasons. (Photo: G. Smith)
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Though he is entering his 17th NFL season, Jason Hanson doesn’t feel his strength is diminishing.
He still has all of the physical ability to get his job done and is therefore looking forward to just another year of Lions’ football.
But while this may feel like just another year for Hanson, this is a special year for the Detroit Lions franchise as it looks to celebrate it’s 75th season.
“Detroit has a lot of history,” said Hanson. “I think, lately with us not doing well, it gets lost that there’s a lot of history with the team and some of the best players that have ever played the game have played for the Detroit Lions.
“I think it’s neat for these new guys and for the community – for everybody – with the 75th season to remember that there’s been a lot of great things about the Lions and a lot of great players.”
One of the ways the franchise will honor those great players is through the naming of a 75th Season All-Time Team. A committee has been named and fans will vote both online and via paper ballot to piece together who will be on that team.
As one of the greatest kickers in Lions’ history, Hanson is naturally on the ballot.
“It’s always been one of the great blessings of my career to be in Detroit for my whole career,” said Hanson. “(To be on the ballot is) special, (but) there’s been great kickers with the Lions. You just do your job.
“But to kind of be the ‘old man’ now, as guys joke, is kind of cool in the sense that I’ve been with the Lions for my whole career.”
Hanson is the leading scorer in franchise history with 1,659 points and holds all of the team’s kicking records.
Even after 16 years of NFL football, Hanson still gets nervous before big kicks. He alleviates that pressure by staying in the game by constantly kicking on the sideline. (Photo: G. Smith)
So, as he heads into his 17th NFL season, the question is: how does he remain so consistent?
“I have a routine and I stay on the sideline and try to always stay in the game,” he said. “I don’t do very well sitting on the bench, putting a hat on and then standing up a few minutes before I kick and getting loose. I get more nervous that way – I kind of have to stay into it.”
Hanson gets nervous?
It’s hard to believe such a seasoned vet who has shown such cool, calm consistency over the years could actually get nervous, but it is a reality of the position.
“My base personality isn’t like, ‘oh, this is no big deal,’ or ‘this is going to go in.’ It’s like, ‘oh, man, this is big,’ or ‘I’ve made them all week but what if I miss this one?’” said Hanson. “You have to have the discipline of learning how to, in the big moments, at least do what you’ve always done. Then the best part is actually gaining control of it and having your best focus.”
Through all his years of kicking, Hanson still considers himself learning how to do it well.
“There are times I’ve done it real well and there’s times (I haven’t),” he said. “And (doing) that doesn’t guarantee you perfection. It’s not as if trying real hard would guarantee I never miss.
“But obviously if you make most of them and people are surprised when you miss, it’s because you’re able to – in the big moments – at least do that. Focus in and do what you’ve always done.”
Throughout the past 16 years, Hanson has one of the steadiest legs in the NFL, but he doesn’t evaluate his season based on kicking percentage.
He actually looks at what he was able to do in the big moments to determine whether or not he had a good season. Last year – as Detroit fought for a playoff berth – Hanson would consider his season okay, but not one of his best.
“Statistically (it was) fine,” he said. “But overall, it was real disappointing in the sense that there were a couple kicks that I missed that were crucial kicks and that’s what I work for and those are the moments (the team wants) me to come through.
Being around as long as he has, Hanson sees the loyalty of Lions' fans and is hoping to be part of delivering them a winner in 2008. (Photo: G. Smith)
“One time I got another chance against Minnesota and made it. But then against Dallas missed one with six minutes left. It was a huge kick and didn’t come through. Those things are major disappointments and there’s no real physical way to train for them, it’s just the matter of coming back mentally and being ready to get it done.”
Hanson has never been one to shy away from the realities of the team. He knows things haven’t been the way fans would like them to be in recent years, but he sees the possibility of change on the horizon.
“It’s got to be different,” he said. “We say it every year, but I think we’re just building and building and building. We hit bottom and we’re on our way out. (Heading into this year), we kept a lot of the guys that I think help us win and that are great locker room guys. We’ve added some talent.
“It should just get better. There are no excuses for it not to.”
Throughout his lengthy career, one thing Hanson has seen consistently is the loyalty of the fans.
He has seen ups and downs from a team standpoint but, through it all, the Lions’ faithful have remained.
“They’ve been great fans and you wish you had a product that matched their support,” said Hanson. “I think it’s coming, but they really are – they’ve got to be – some of the best, if not the best fans.”
As the most-tenured veteran in the locker room, Hanson will often remind his teammates what it will be like when they realize success the way they are hoping to this season.
“I keep telling the guys in the locker room that if we ever could start winning and getting it done like we’re supposed to, this town would be unbelievable,” said Hanson. “I remember some games at the Silverdome when we were playing well and you had 80,000 people going crazy. At Ford Field we’ve just had a taste of it a couple times, but it could just be amazing. I’d love to see it start to happen.”
By Chrissie Wywrot
Detroitlions.com
June 20, 2008
Hanson was part of the press conference announcing the franchise celebration of 75 seasons. (Photo: G. Smith)
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Though he is entering his 17th NFL season, Jason Hanson doesn’t feel his strength is diminishing.
He still has all of the physical ability to get his job done and is therefore looking forward to just another year of Lions’ football.
But while this may feel like just another year for Hanson, this is a special year for the Detroit Lions franchise as it looks to celebrate it’s 75th season.
“Detroit has a lot of history,” said Hanson. “I think, lately with us not doing well, it gets lost that there’s a lot of history with the team and some of the best players that have ever played the game have played for the Detroit Lions.
“I think it’s neat for these new guys and for the community – for everybody – with the 75th season to remember that there’s been a lot of great things about the Lions and a lot of great players.”
One of the ways the franchise will honor those great players is through the naming of a 75th Season All-Time Team. A committee has been named and fans will vote both online and via paper ballot to piece together who will be on that team.
As one of the greatest kickers in Lions’ history, Hanson is naturally on the ballot.
“It’s always been one of the great blessings of my career to be in Detroit for my whole career,” said Hanson. “(To be on the ballot is) special, (but) there’s been great kickers with the Lions. You just do your job.
“But to kind of be the ‘old man’ now, as guys joke, is kind of cool in the sense that I’ve been with the Lions for my whole career.”
Hanson is the leading scorer in franchise history with 1,659 points and holds all of the team’s kicking records.
Even after 16 years of NFL football, Hanson still gets nervous before big kicks. He alleviates that pressure by staying in the game by constantly kicking on the sideline. (Photo: G. Smith)
So, as he heads into his 17th NFL season, the question is: how does he remain so consistent?
“I have a routine and I stay on the sideline and try to always stay in the game,” he said. “I don’t do very well sitting on the bench, putting a hat on and then standing up a few minutes before I kick and getting loose. I get more nervous that way – I kind of have to stay into it.”
Hanson gets nervous?
It’s hard to believe such a seasoned vet who has shown such cool, calm consistency over the years could actually get nervous, but it is a reality of the position.
“My base personality isn’t like, ‘oh, this is no big deal,’ or ‘this is going to go in.’ It’s like, ‘oh, man, this is big,’ or ‘I’ve made them all week but what if I miss this one?’” said Hanson. “You have to have the discipline of learning how to, in the big moments, at least do what you’ve always done. Then the best part is actually gaining control of it and having your best focus.”
Through all his years of kicking, Hanson still considers himself learning how to do it well.
“There are times I’ve done it real well and there’s times (I haven’t),” he said. “And (doing) that doesn’t guarantee you perfection. It’s not as if trying real hard would guarantee I never miss.
“But obviously if you make most of them and people are surprised when you miss, it’s because you’re able to – in the big moments – at least do that. Focus in and do what you’ve always done.”
Throughout the past 16 years, Hanson has one of the steadiest legs in the NFL, but he doesn’t evaluate his season based on kicking percentage.
He actually looks at what he was able to do in the big moments to determine whether or not he had a good season. Last year – as Detroit fought for a playoff berth – Hanson would consider his season okay, but not one of his best.
“Statistically (it was) fine,” he said. “But overall, it was real disappointing in the sense that there were a couple kicks that I missed that were crucial kicks and that’s what I work for and those are the moments (the team wants) me to come through.
Being around as long as he has, Hanson sees the loyalty of Lions' fans and is hoping to be part of delivering them a winner in 2008. (Photo: G. Smith)
“One time I got another chance against Minnesota and made it. But then against Dallas missed one with six minutes left. It was a huge kick and didn’t come through. Those things are major disappointments and there’s no real physical way to train for them, it’s just the matter of coming back mentally and being ready to get it done.”
Hanson has never been one to shy away from the realities of the team. He knows things haven’t been the way fans would like them to be in recent years, but he sees the possibility of change on the horizon.
“It’s got to be different,” he said. “We say it every year, but I think we’re just building and building and building. We hit bottom and we’re on our way out. (Heading into this year), we kept a lot of the guys that I think help us win and that are great locker room guys. We’ve added some talent.
“It should just get better. There are no excuses for it not to.”
Throughout his lengthy career, one thing Hanson has seen consistently is the loyalty of the fans.
He has seen ups and downs from a team standpoint but, through it all, the Lions’ faithful have remained.
“They’ve been great fans and you wish you had a product that matched their support,” said Hanson. “I think it’s coming, but they really are – they’ve got to be – some of the best, if not the best fans.”
As the most-tenured veteran in the locker room, Hanson will often remind his teammates what it will be like when they realize success the way they are hoping to this season.
“I keep telling the guys in the locker room that if we ever could start winning and getting it done like we’re supposed to, this town would be unbelievable,” said Hanson. “I remember some games at the Silverdome when we were playing well and you had 80,000 people going crazy. At Ford Field we’ve just had a taste of it a couple times, but it could just be amazing. I’d love to see it start to happen.”
Lion Hall of famer: On the Lions next season, Matt Millen and the team's losing
culture
June 22, 2008
Hall of Famer Lem Barney discusses the Lions:
Can the Lions win next season? I think the Lions can. Every man during every play has to give their all. And everybody has to stay healthy. Last year they were pretty rattled in the secondary.
What is your opinion of Matt Millen? Hey, that's not a fair question. You are going to get me in trouble. It's hard for me to say. I will be a Lion the rest of my life.
But? I think he has the capability to be a good general manager. He's just had some ups and downs. ... You can't just blame Matt. Players have to want to win, too. You have to be hungry enough. Look at what Boston did -- (the Celtics) were hungry. One guy can't do it by himself. That's why it's called a TEAM. Together ... everyone ... accomplishes more.
What areas of the team do you like or dislike? Receiver positions have been pretty good. Running game needs some work. So does the protection of the quarterback. Jon Kitna is a pretty good quarterback. But he needs time.
Is there a losing culture inside Allen Park? Is there even such a thing? No. And no. All behavior is learned. Winning behavior is learned. Losing behavior is learned. It just takes a concerted effort. From every man. Study the game plan.
Predictions for 2008? I think they can be better than .500 ball. They were on track last year. Then injuries. Then a letdown.
June 22, 2008
Hall of Famer Lem Barney discusses the Lions:
Can the Lions win next season? I think the Lions can. Every man during every play has to give their all. And everybody has to stay healthy. Last year they were pretty rattled in the secondary.
What is your opinion of Matt Millen? Hey, that's not a fair question. You are going to get me in trouble. It's hard for me to say. I will be a Lion the rest of my life.
But? I think he has the capability to be a good general manager. He's just had some ups and downs. ... You can't just blame Matt. Players have to want to win, too. You have to be hungry enough. Look at what Boston did -- (the Celtics) were hungry. One guy can't do it by himself. That's why it's called a TEAM. Together ... everyone ... accomplishes more.
What areas of the team do you like or dislike? Receiver positions have been pretty good. Running game needs some work. So does the protection of the quarterback. Jon Kitna is a pretty good quarterback. But he needs time.
Is there a losing culture inside Allen Park? Is there even such a thing? No. And no. All behavior is learned. Winning behavior is learned. Losing behavior is learned. It just takes a concerted effort. From every man. Study the game plan.
Predictions for 2008? I think they can be better than .500 ball. They were on track last year. Then injuries. Then a letdown.
Lions Hall of Famer rebounds from poor choices, preaches hope, optimism
BY SHAWN WINDSOR • FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER • June 22, 2008
The stranger shot Lem Barney a glance as soon as he walked through the front door. It was around dinnertime in the lobby of the Southfield Police station on a recent Wednesday night, and quiet.
Barney noticed the stare instantly.
The Hall of Famer was sitting in the station lobby waiting to head upstairs to the jail, where a dozen or so inmates would be gathering to hear him offer a chance at salvation.
"Sorry to stare so long when I came in," the stranger stammered, "but you looked familiar. I was trying to figure out who you were."
"Lem Barney," he announced emphatically.
"The football player?"
"YES, SIR!"
"Nice to meet you."
And they shook hands.
Within seconds, Barney welcomed the stranger into his embrace, introducing him to Rick Gibson, Barney's colleague from Hope United Methodist in Southfield who was at the jail to help Barney preach to the inmates, introducing him to the reporter tagging along, to his repertoire of high-wattage grins and sing-song cadence and his endless supply of aphorisms:
" 'It's nice to be important,' my momma always told me, 'but it's more important to be nice.' "
In Barney's world, everybody is a "brother, man" or a "sister, man." In Barney's world, everything is "beautiful, man" and everyone is "blessed, man." In Barney's world, loving dogs means you're adept at animal husbandry and watering plants means you're a horticulturist and enjoying a little weed doesn't mean "you were sitting and smoking all of Jamaica, man."
In Barney's world, his parents weren't cooks.
"They were culinary scientists," he says.
And they raised him to believe that Joy stands for "Jesus, oh, yes!" -- even if he lost sight of that for a while.
"I took right turns when I should have turned left, and I kept going straight when I should have turned around," he said. "But I thank God for saving an old wretch like me."
This is why he was at the Southfield Police station, and why a group of inmates were willing to listen to this impeccably dressed, 62-year-old former Lion and Hall of Fame player. A man who survived a plunge into the sins of the celebrity life before pulling himself from the muck. Were it not for the gray on the side of his head, you could easily imagine him taking the field again, blanketing the secondary and giving quarterbacks nightmares.
Still, despite his street cred and his charisma and the book he is carrying under his arm -- "God's Game Plan, The Athlete's Bible" -- the first question of the night is about something more pressing.
"So," an inmate asked as the prisoners were taking their seats in the mess hall, "are the Lions going to win this year?"
"I think they are going to win it all this year, man," Barney replied.
Then he paused.
"Nah, man, I'm kidding. I'm giving you hope."
Hope is Barney's business these days. And he spreads it wherever his days take him. To churches. To Coney Island restaurants. To better-dad conventions. To schools. And to prisons.
For those efforts, he recently was named a recipient of the Brown Bomber jacket -- given in Joe Louis' name to those who show commitment to community involvement and working with youth. He will be honored today at Cobo Center.
The honor comes 41 years after Barney arrived in Detroit, fresh from Mississippi. The city was smoldering then. "I moved here three days after the riots," he said.
In between, Barney turned himself into an icon, made choices that chipped away at that status, and eventually threw himself into the most challenging scrum he has ever faced: the battle to save souls.
His game plan is simple.
"I'm just being Lem Barney," he said.
Pray. Read the Bible. Work out.
Barney, Weger form unlikely duet
The Lions took Barney with their second-round draft choice in 1967. He'd played at Jackson State, the same small Mississippi school that later produced Walter Payton. Barney had come up in a poor but strict and religious home.
"But we never went hungry," he said.
He was fast and quick and possessed great balance, traits that allowed him to take great risks on the field as a cornerback.
On the field, he fit in immediately. In his first game, he intercepted the first pass Green Bay legend Bart Starr threw his way. He returned it 24 yards for a touchdown. In his last game of his rookie year, he had three picks in one quarter against the Minnesota Vikings. He was named defensive rookie of the year.
Off the field, his all-out mentality in practice irritated the veterans. And when it was time to go out with the boys to the bar, he usually ended up eating ice cream with fellow rookie Mike Weger.
Weger and Barney broke ranks in more substantial ways, too. Weger had grown up in Oklahoma before moving to Ohio. But one day in camp, he started singing an old blues song that stopped Barney in his tracks.
"Where did you hear that?" he demanded.
"On the radio," Weger replied, sheepishly.
"No white guys know that music!"
From that moment, they began singing together. In the locker room. On the bus. On the sideline during practice. They became one of the most formidable left sides in the defensive backfield in football -- Weger was a safety. They even joined the Navy Reserve together.
The two asked the Lions if they could room together on the road.
"And that just wasn't done in those days," Weger said. "I can remember stories of teams cutting black players just because a team had an odd number of black guys on the road. They would rather cut him than put him with a white guy."
Said Barney: "We broke a barrier. We were the first black and white roommates in the NFL."
Still, the arrangement lasted only two years. As Barney's fame rose, so did the pressure on him from black activists, some of whom didn't appreciate his rooming with a white guy.
"It was tough on Lem," Weger said. "He was just a fun-loving guy."
Around the same time, Barney started hanging out with the Motown guys. In 1970, he introduced himself to Marvin Gaye by knocking on his front door in Palmer Park.
The next year, the two were traveling the country in a Winnebago, and Barney was singing backup on Gaye's classic, "What's Going On."
"Those were the days, man," Barney said.
He'd smoked his first joint with Gaye. It opened an enticing but daunting world.
"It was the times," said Mel Farr, the running back who roomed with Barney after Weger. "A lot of 'Let's make love, not war.' Get a little high, etc. Some guys took it further than others.' "
Barney went on to appear in "Paper Lion," the movie version of George Plimpton's book about the team. He also made "The Black Six," a motorcycle flick about returning veterans from Vietnam.
The script had a plot that called for trouble. In some ways, it foreshadowed his own life.
From Lions to MichCon to pulpit
Barney retired in 1977, after 11 seasons, seven Pro Bowls, 56 interceptions and 11 touchdowns. He went to work for MichCon. His job was community relations, or, in other words, to be Lem Barney.
During this time, Weger lost touch with him.
"I'd heard through the grapevine that Lem was struggling with drugs and women and money," Weger said.
In March 1993, Barney hit bottom. In a MichCon company car heading south on I-75, he smashed into a ramp. The cops found four roaches (marijuana butts) and cocaine. Barney blamed hitchhikers. He told the court they had left the paraphernalia in his car while he'd run inside a gas station.
A year later, he beat the case. But it came with a price. MichCon fired him. Maybe worse, he'd broken the one rule his father had laid down all those years ago.
"Whatever you do," Lemuel Barney told his son, "don't taint the family name."
Only a year before, he'd been elected to the Hall of Fame after being eligible for seven years. (Many, including Weger, thought he wasn't voted in earlier because of questions about his lifestyle in the 1970s and '80s.)
The public embarrassment that followed cost him his job and his name. Farr stepped in and gave him a job at one of his auto dealerships. That lasted until 2002, when Farr was forced to sell his dealerships because of predatory lending practices. Barney distanced himself from his friend.
"He didn't want his name tainted again," Weger said. "It was too bad. By then, Lem couldn't tolerate it. He was so far along in his change of character that he walked away."
After the bust, Barney had reached out to Weger.
"He called me out of the blue and said, 'I (screwed) up.' I told him I never stopped believing he was a good person. And he went about changing his life around."
After leaving Farr, Barney became a lay minister at his church, Hope United. He was preaching.
"He was so proud," Weger said.
These days, preaching fills his calendar, either the gospel of Jesus, or the gospel of Lem.
Sinai Grace Hospital hired him to work in community relations, to be himself, to shake hands and smile just as he used to do with MichCon.
He has reconnected with old friends -- Farr was slated to present Barney with his Brown Bomber jacket. He has remarried -- he divorced his first wife in 1999. He has reconnected with the Lions.
"He's our go-to guy," said Tim Pendell, the team's director of community relations. "Yeah, he's had his ups and downs. But he's one of the finest, warmest, most genuine people I've ever met."
And he's singing with his former roommate again. On any given day, Barney might get a call from Weger.
"And I will start singing," he said.
"And I will jump right in," Barney added.
And the voices ride a telephonic wave around metro Detroit, a couple of guys making music as if it were 1967 all over again.
The stranger shot Lem Barney a glance as soon as he walked through the front door. It was around dinnertime in the lobby of the Southfield Police station on a recent Wednesday night, and quiet.
Barney noticed the stare instantly.
The Hall of Famer was sitting in the station lobby waiting to head upstairs to the jail, where a dozen or so inmates would be gathering to hear him offer a chance at salvation.
"Sorry to stare so long when I came in," the stranger stammered, "but you looked familiar. I was trying to figure out who you were."
"Lem Barney," he announced emphatically.
"The football player?"
"YES, SIR!"
"Nice to meet you."
And they shook hands.
Within seconds, Barney welcomed the stranger into his embrace, introducing him to Rick Gibson, Barney's colleague from Hope United Methodist in Southfield who was at the jail to help Barney preach to the inmates, introducing him to the reporter tagging along, to his repertoire of high-wattage grins and sing-song cadence and his endless supply of aphorisms:
" 'It's nice to be important,' my momma always told me, 'but it's more important to be nice.' "
In Barney's world, everybody is a "brother, man" or a "sister, man." In Barney's world, everything is "beautiful, man" and everyone is "blessed, man." In Barney's world, loving dogs means you're adept at animal husbandry and watering plants means you're a horticulturist and enjoying a little weed doesn't mean "you were sitting and smoking all of Jamaica, man."
In Barney's world, his parents weren't cooks.
"They were culinary scientists," he says.
And they raised him to believe that Joy stands for "Jesus, oh, yes!" -- even if he lost sight of that for a while.
"I took right turns when I should have turned left, and I kept going straight when I should have turned around," he said. "But I thank God for saving an old wretch like me."
This is why he was at the Southfield Police station, and why a group of inmates were willing to listen to this impeccably dressed, 62-year-old former Lion and Hall of Fame player. A man who survived a plunge into the sins of the celebrity life before pulling himself from the muck. Were it not for the gray on the side of his head, you could easily imagine him taking the field again, blanketing the secondary and giving quarterbacks nightmares.
Still, despite his street cred and his charisma and the book he is carrying under his arm -- "God's Game Plan, The Athlete's Bible" -- the first question of the night is about something more pressing.
"So," an inmate asked as the prisoners were taking their seats in the mess hall, "are the Lions going to win this year?"
"I think they are going to win it all this year, man," Barney replied.
Then he paused.
"Nah, man, I'm kidding. I'm giving you hope."
Hope is Barney's business these days. And he spreads it wherever his days take him. To churches. To Coney Island restaurants. To better-dad conventions. To schools. And to prisons.
For those efforts, he recently was named a recipient of the Brown Bomber jacket -- given in Joe Louis' name to those who show commitment to community involvement and working with youth. He will be honored today at Cobo Center.
The honor comes 41 years after Barney arrived in Detroit, fresh from Mississippi. The city was smoldering then. "I moved here three days after the riots," he said.
In between, Barney turned himself into an icon, made choices that chipped away at that status, and eventually threw himself into the most challenging scrum he has ever faced: the battle to save souls.
His game plan is simple.
"I'm just being Lem Barney," he said.
Pray. Read the Bible. Work out.
Barney, Weger form unlikely duet
The Lions took Barney with their second-round draft choice in 1967. He'd played at Jackson State, the same small Mississippi school that later produced Walter Payton. Barney had come up in a poor but strict and religious home.
"But we never went hungry," he said.
He was fast and quick and possessed great balance, traits that allowed him to take great risks on the field as a cornerback.
On the field, he fit in immediately. In his first game, he intercepted the first pass Green Bay legend Bart Starr threw his way. He returned it 24 yards for a touchdown. In his last game of his rookie year, he had three picks in one quarter against the Minnesota Vikings. He was named defensive rookie of the year.
Off the field, his all-out mentality in practice irritated the veterans. And when it was time to go out with the boys to the bar, he usually ended up eating ice cream with fellow rookie Mike Weger.
Weger and Barney broke ranks in more substantial ways, too. Weger had grown up in Oklahoma before moving to Ohio. But one day in camp, he started singing an old blues song that stopped Barney in his tracks.
"Where did you hear that?" he demanded.
"On the radio," Weger replied, sheepishly.
"No white guys know that music!"
From that moment, they began singing together. In the locker room. On the bus. On the sideline during practice. They became one of the most formidable left sides in the defensive backfield in football -- Weger was a safety. They even joined the Navy Reserve together.
The two asked the Lions if they could room together on the road.
"And that just wasn't done in those days," Weger said. "I can remember stories of teams cutting black players just because a team had an odd number of black guys on the road. They would rather cut him than put him with a white guy."
Said Barney: "We broke a barrier. We were the first black and white roommates in the NFL."
Still, the arrangement lasted only two years. As Barney's fame rose, so did the pressure on him from black activists, some of whom didn't appreciate his rooming with a white guy.
"It was tough on Lem," Weger said. "He was just a fun-loving guy."
Around the same time, Barney started hanging out with the Motown guys. In 1970, he introduced himself to Marvin Gaye by knocking on his front door in Palmer Park.
The next year, the two were traveling the country in a Winnebago, and Barney was singing backup on Gaye's classic, "What's Going On."
"Those were the days, man," Barney said.
He'd smoked his first joint with Gaye. It opened an enticing but daunting world.
"It was the times," said Mel Farr, the running back who roomed with Barney after Weger. "A lot of 'Let's make love, not war.' Get a little high, etc. Some guys took it further than others.' "
Barney went on to appear in "Paper Lion," the movie version of George Plimpton's book about the team. He also made "The Black Six," a motorcycle flick about returning veterans from Vietnam.
The script had a plot that called for trouble. In some ways, it foreshadowed his own life.
From Lions to MichCon to pulpit
Barney retired in 1977, after 11 seasons, seven Pro Bowls, 56 interceptions and 11 touchdowns. He went to work for MichCon. His job was community relations, or, in other words, to be Lem Barney.
During this time, Weger lost touch with him.
"I'd heard through the grapevine that Lem was struggling with drugs and women and money," Weger said.
In March 1993, Barney hit bottom. In a MichCon company car heading south on I-75, he smashed into a ramp. The cops found four roaches (marijuana butts) and cocaine. Barney blamed hitchhikers. He told the court they had left the paraphernalia in his car while he'd run inside a gas station.
A year later, he beat the case. But it came with a price. MichCon fired him. Maybe worse, he'd broken the one rule his father had laid down all those years ago.
"Whatever you do," Lemuel Barney told his son, "don't taint the family name."
Only a year before, he'd been elected to the Hall of Fame after being eligible for seven years. (Many, including Weger, thought he wasn't voted in earlier because of questions about his lifestyle in the 1970s and '80s.)
The public embarrassment that followed cost him his job and his name. Farr stepped in and gave him a job at one of his auto dealerships. That lasted until 2002, when Farr was forced to sell his dealerships because of predatory lending practices. Barney distanced himself from his friend.
"He didn't want his name tainted again," Weger said. "It was too bad. By then, Lem couldn't tolerate it. He was so far along in his change of character that he walked away."
After the bust, Barney had reached out to Weger.
"He called me out of the blue and said, 'I (screwed) up.' I told him I never stopped believing he was a good person. And he went about changing his life around."
After leaving Farr, Barney became a lay minister at his church, Hope United. He was preaching.
"He was so proud," Weger said.
These days, preaching fills his calendar, either the gospel of Jesus, or the gospel of Lem.
Sinai Grace Hospital hired him to work in community relations, to be himself, to shake hands and smile just as he used to do with MichCon.
He has reconnected with old friends -- Farr was slated to present Barney with his Brown Bomber jacket. He has remarried -- he divorced his first wife in 1999. He has reconnected with the Lions.
"He's our go-to guy," said Tim Pendell, the team's director of community relations. "Yeah, he's had his ups and downs. But he's one of the finest, warmest, most genuine people I've ever met."
And he's singing with his former roommate again. On any given day, Barney might get a call from Weger.
"And I will start singing," he said.
"And I will jump right in," Barney added.
And the voices ride a telephonic wave around metro Detroit, a couple of guys making music as if it were 1967 all over again.
Scouting Reports: Don Muhlbach and Kenneth Moore
by Tom Kowalski
Monday June 23, 2008, 12:04 AM
DON MUHLBACH
2008 Scouting Report
A very reliable longsnapper who is going to make the squad on that talent alone. In the past, the Lions have attempted him to put him at other positions - like linebacker and tight end - but they've finally come to the conclusion that he's not cut out for any other role.
That doesn't mean that Muhlbach isn't a good athlete. In addition to tight and timely snaps, he does a good job of blocking and also getting downfield in coverage. Muhlbach is still under a long-term contract and, because there won't be any significant competition at training camp, he's one of those players who already has a roster spot nailed down.
KENNETH MOORE
2008 Scouting Report
Detroit's fifth-round pick was drafted because he's been dependable in games, has decent speed, excellent hands and has some return skills. While Moore was very productive as a receiver - he caught almost everything thrown his way - most of his catches were on short routes and quick throws. That won't hurt him much in Detroit, which plans on using more of that scheme this season.
Moore, though, will have to win the No. 5 receiver position with his work on special teams. The problem is that he doesn't have great speed - he's been timed at 4.5 in the 40 - so he's not a big threat to go the distance.
Because he's got good hands, though, Moore will be dependable on returns and if he shows a knack for making the first guy miss and getting extra yardage, he'll have a shot to make the club.
Monday June 23, 2008, 12:04 AM
DON MUHLBACH
2008 Scouting Report
A very reliable longsnapper who is going to make the squad on that talent alone. In the past, the Lions have attempted him to put him at other positions - like linebacker and tight end - but they've finally come to the conclusion that he's not cut out for any other role.
That doesn't mean that Muhlbach isn't a good athlete. In addition to tight and timely snaps, he does a good job of blocking and also getting downfield in coverage. Muhlbach is still under a long-term contract and, because there won't be any significant competition at training camp, he's one of those players who already has a roster spot nailed down.
KENNETH MOORE
2008 Scouting Report
Detroit's fifth-round pick was drafted because he's been dependable in games, has decent speed, excellent hands and has some return skills. While Moore was very productive as a receiver - he caught almost everything thrown his way - most of his catches were on short routes and quick throws. That won't hurt him much in Detroit, which plans on using more of that scheme this season.
Moore, though, will have to win the No. 5 receiver position with his work on special teams. The problem is that he doesn't have great speed - he's been timed at 4.5 in the 40 - so he's not a big threat to go the distance.
Because he's got good hands, though, Moore will be dependable on returns and if he shows a knack for making the first guy miss and getting extra yardage, he'll have a shot to make the club.
Scouting Report: Devale Ellis
by Tom Kowalski
Sunday June 22, 2008, 12:06 AM
DEVALE ELLIS
2008 Scouting Report
Because of a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2007 season, Ellis has kind of drifted into no-man's land, but watch out for this kid. Ellis has a great deal of speed and he should be a factor in the special teams competition.
The Lions are looking for that No. 5 receiver who can return punts and kickoffs and can also be effective in coverage, especially at the hawk position. Ellis only had a few shots during the 2006 season but he showed that he could do those things.
Ellis had just four punt returns that year, but popped one for 48 yards and, on his six kickoff returns, he averaged 23.2 yards. Ellis has also been around long enough that he knows the offense so that's not going to be a problem.
Ellis will basically be competing with fifth-round draft pick Kenneth Moore for that final roster spot at receiver. Ellis has a lot of things going for him, including experience and speed, but he's got to show that he's completely healthy - and can stay that way.
Sunday June 22, 2008, 12:06 AM
DEVALE ELLIS
2008 Scouting Report
Because of a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2007 season, Ellis has kind of drifted into no-man's land, but watch out for this kid. Ellis has a great deal of speed and he should be a factor in the special teams competition.
The Lions are looking for that No. 5 receiver who can return punts and kickoffs and can also be effective in coverage, especially at the hawk position. Ellis only had a few shots during the 2006 season but he showed that he could do those things.
Ellis had just four punt returns that year, but popped one for 48 yards and, on his six kickoff returns, he averaged 23.2 yards. Ellis has also been around long enough that he knows the offense so that's not going to be a problem.
Ellis will basically be competing with fifth-round draft pick Kenneth Moore for that final roster spot at receiver. Ellis has a lot of things going for him, including experience and speed, but he's got to show that he's completely healthy - and can stay that way.
Scouting Report: Stanley Wilson
by Tom Kowalski
Saturday June 21, 2008, 12:00 AM
STANLEY WILSON
2008 Scouting Report
Wilson, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after this season, has one last chance to show that he can fit in the Tampa Two system. Wilson, who was drafted one year before head coach Rod Marinelli took over, still has the speed that made him a third-round draft pick, but he's still struggling with the defense.
Wilson, who was playing cornerback with a lot of confidence at the time, started the final four games in 2006 and it appeared that he was going to be a factor in the secondary. Wilson, though, struggled at the start of last season and, after starting the first five games, he was benched.
One of the knocks on Wilson coming out of Stanford was that he wasn't a big hitter and that's obviously a strike against him in the Tampa Two defense where jamming receivers off the line and stepping up into run support are keys to the scheme. Wilson is never going to be the prototypical Tampa Two corner, but he's got enough ability to get the job done.
The biggest factor in Wilson's game is confidence. When he's got it, he's a productive player. When he's thinking too much or worried about his mistakes, he becomes a liability. Last year, Wilson was under a lot of pressure as the starter and it might have affected him. Now, clearly in a backup role, he should have a chance to develop and regain the confidence that he had at the end of the 2006 season.
Saturday June 21, 2008, 12:00 AM
STANLEY WILSON
2008 Scouting Report
Wilson, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after this season, has one last chance to show that he can fit in the Tampa Two system. Wilson, who was drafted one year before head coach Rod Marinelli took over, still has the speed that made him a third-round draft pick, but he's still struggling with the defense.
Wilson, who was playing cornerback with a lot of confidence at the time, started the final four games in 2006 and it appeared that he was going to be a factor in the secondary. Wilson, though, struggled at the start of last season and, after starting the first five games, he was benched.
One of the knocks on Wilson coming out of Stanford was that he wasn't a big hitter and that's obviously a strike against him in the Tampa Two defense where jamming receivers off the line and stepping up into run support are keys to the scheme. Wilson is never going to be the prototypical Tampa Two corner, but he's got enough ability to get the job done.
The biggest factor in Wilson's game is confidence. When he's got it, he's a productive player. When he's thinking too much or worried about his mistakes, he becomes a liability. Last year, Wilson was under a lot of pressure as the starter and it might have affected him. Now, clearly in a backup role, he should have a chance to develop and regain the confidence that he had at the end of the 2006 season.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Kevin Jones shocked Lions cut him, working out better than ever
Former Lion gearing up for comeback in NFL
June 20, 2008
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Kevin Jones darted to the right, planted his foot, pivoted and sprinted back across a patch of grass.
"That is what teams can't believe I can do," Jones said Thursday morning after doing a shuttle run in 4.3 seconds.
Soon, NFL teams will get a chance to witness what seems like a remarkable comeback from ACL surgery.
Jones has a workout scheduled for scouts on June 28 in Saline.
In a town about 40 miles west of Detroit, the former Lions running back has been rehabbing his surgically repaired knee at Brookside Golf Course, a pool and in the basement and dojo of a holistic medicine practitioner and sports agent.
"I've never worked out like this and I feel great," Jones said.
Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery on Jones' right knee in January and told him it would take up to 10 months to get back on the field.
Jones believes he will be able to go through non-contact drills with the team that signs him during training camp next month.
"I honestly feel like I'm ready to play right now," he insisted.
New England, Chicago, Green Bay, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, Denver, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Buffalo and the New York Jets are among the teams who have shown interest in Jones.
"I think I'll get signed in the next couple of weeks," he said. "But it really doesn't matter when it is — as long as it's before the season."
Jones is vying for a job along with free agent running backs such as Shaun Alexander, Chris Henry, Ron Dayne and Cedric Benson.
The Lions cut their former first-round pick in March with one year left on his contract after he hurt his knee late last season added to the injury woes that have stunted his success in the league.
Jones missed the first two games last season recovering from a foot injury that also sidelined him for the last three games of 2006. He ran for at least 70 yards in five games — including a season-high 105 — before hurting his right knee Dec. 23 against the Chiefs.
A few months later, the Lions released him.
"It caught me off guard because a couple weeks before that, everybody with the Lions was saying they were looking forward to having me back after seeing how well I was recovering," Jones said. "But I also understand the situation because I was going into the last year of my contract, coming off two years with injuries, and Roy Williams' contract was going to be up at the same time, too."
A message seeking comment was left Thursday with Lions president Matt Millen.
When the Lions announced their decision to release Jones, Detroit coach Rod Marinelli said the team decided it was the right time to make the move as it prepared for the draft and offseason workouts.
Jones ran 1,133 yards as a rookie in 2004 and 3,000-plus yards over four season with the Lions.
Dr. D.S. Ping is confident things are going to work out well for Jones.
The holistic-medicine practitioner and sports agent, who does not represent Jones, has been leading Jones through workouts six days a week.
Ping has performed heat acupuncture on Jones' knee, worked him out in his basement gym, jiujitsu dojo and on a golf course for sprinting, shuffling and cutting and in a rec-center pool.
"The scouts are going to be amazed at what they see next week," Ping said.
June 20, 2008
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Kevin Jones darted to the right, planted his foot, pivoted and sprinted back across a patch of grass.
"That is what teams can't believe I can do," Jones said Thursday morning after doing a shuttle run in 4.3 seconds.
Soon, NFL teams will get a chance to witness what seems like a remarkable comeback from ACL surgery.
Jones has a workout scheduled for scouts on June 28 in Saline.
In a town about 40 miles west of Detroit, the former Lions running back has been rehabbing his surgically repaired knee at Brookside Golf Course, a pool and in the basement and dojo of a holistic medicine practitioner and sports agent.
"I've never worked out like this and I feel great," Jones said.
Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery on Jones' right knee in January and told him it would take up to 10 months to get back on the field.
Jones believes he will be able to go through non-contact drills with the team that signs him during training camp next month.
"I honestly feel like I'm ready to play right now," he insisted.
New England, Chicago, Green Bay, Tennessee, Tampa Bay, Denver, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Buffalo and the New York Jets are among the teams who have shown interest in Jones.
"I think I'll get signed in the next couple of weeks," he said. "But it really doesn't matter when it is — as long as it's before the season."
Jones is vying for a job along with free agent running backs such as Shaun Alexander, Chris Henry, Ron Dayne and Cedric Benson.
The Lions cut their former first-round pick in March with one year left on his contract after he hurt his knee late last season added to the injury woes that have stunted his success in the league.
Jones missed the first two games last season recovering from a foot injury that also sidelined him for the last three games of 2006. He ran for at least 70 yards in five games — including a season-high 105 — before hurting his right knee Dec. 23 against the Chiefs.
A few months later, the Lions released him.
"It caught me off guard because a couple weeks before that, everybody with the Lions was saying they were looking forward to having me back after seeing how well I was recovering," Jones said. "But I also understand the situation because I was going into the last year of my contract, coming off two years with injuries, and Roy Williams' contract was going to be up at the same time, too."
A message seeking comment was left Thursday with Lions president Matt Millen.
When the Lions announced their decision to release Jones, Detroit coach Rod Marinelli said the team decided it was the right time to make the move as it prepared for the draft and offseason workouts.
Jones ran 1,133 yards as a rookie in 2004 and 3,000-plus yards over four season with the Lions.
Dr. D.S. Ping is confident things are going to work out well for Jones.
The holistic-medicine practitioner and sports agent, who does not represent Jones, has been leading Jones through workouts six days a week.
Ping has performed heat acupuncture on Jones' knee, worked him out in his basement gym, jiujitsu dojo and on a golf course for sprinting, shuffling and cutting and in a rec-center pool.
"The scouts are going to be amazed at what they see next week," Ping said.
Scouting Report: Dan Campbell
by Tom Kowalski
Friday June 20, 2008, 12:07 AM
One of the biggest disappointments last season was when Campbell suffered a relapse of his elbow injury early in the year and played in just two games. At the time, Campbell was Detroit's only strong blocking tight end and when he went out, one of the strengths of the running game went with him.
Campbell still has an issue with his elbow but, this year, the Lions are going to be extremely cautious in bringing him back. That's why they signed free agent Michael Gaines and will have him running with the first unit when the Lions open camp.
Gaines is a good blocker, but Campbell has always brought something extra to the job. Campbell is not only very good in the strength and technical aspects of blocking, but he brings an attitude and toughness to the game and the locker room. And that's one thing head coach Rod Marinelli misses with Campbell sidelined throughout the off-season workouts and probably the early portions of training camp - the professionalism that Campbell brings to the field.
As a receiver, Campbell wasn't used much with the Giants or Cowboys, but he had a career year in his first season with coordinator Mike Martz - averaging 14.7 yards on his 21 catches and scoring four touchdowns. Campbell, whose previous best was 11.4 yards per catch with the Giants in 2001, could still be a target in Detroit's new offense. Because the Lions want to throw the ball quicker on shorter routes, Campbell could top his career-high of 22 receptions (Giants, 2002) but he won't be the deep threat he was with Martz around.
Going into his 10th year - and missing most of the last two seasons with injury - there could be the assumption that Campbell is nearing the end of the line. But if his elbow is healthy - and, again, the Lions are going to be very careful there - there's no reason why he can't return to play a big role in the offense.
Friday June 20, 2008, 12:07 AM
One of the biggest disappointments last season was when Campbell suffered a relapse of his elbow injury early in the year and played in just two games. At the time, Campbell was Detroit's only strong blocking tight end and when he went out, one of the strengths of the running game went with him.
Campbell still has an issue with his elbow but, this year, the Lions are going to be extremely cautious in bringing him back. That's why they signed free agent Michael Gaines and will have him running with the first unit when the Lions open camp.
Gaines is a good blocker, but Campbell has always brought something extra to the job. Campbell is not only very good in the strength and technical aspects of blocking, but he brings an attitude and toughness to the game and the locker room. And that's one thing head coach Rod Marinelli misses with Campbell sidelined throughout the off-season workouts and probably the early portions of training camp - the professionalism that Campbell brings to the field.
As a receiver, Campbell wasn't used much with the Giants or Cowboys, but he had a career year in his first season with coordinator Mike Martz - averaging 14.7 yards on his 21 catches and scoring four touchdowns. Campbell, whose previous best was 11.4 yards per catch with the Giants in 2001, could still be a target in Detroit's new offense. Because the Lions want to throw the ball quicker on shorter routes, Campbell could top his career-high of 22 receptions (Giants, 2002) but he won't be the deep threat he was with Martz around.
Going into his 10th year - and missing most of the last two seasons with injury - there could be the assumption that Campbell is nearing the end of the line. But if his elbow is healthy - and, again, the Lions are going to be very careful there - there's no reason why he can't return to play a big role in the offense.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
NFC rankings: running backs
Posted: June 14, 2008
Sporting News correspondents
More: AFC running back rankings
In the latest installment of NFL offseason position rankings, SN's correspondents break down the running backs in the NFC.
1. VIKINGS: They have the best 1-2 punch in the league with Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Peterson has a rare blend of speed and power and freezes defenders with his moves. Taylor is less explosive but runs just as hard.
2. EAGLES: Brian Westbrook is the NFL's most dangerous all-around back. He's almost unstoppable in the open field. Correll Buckhalter is a reliable power runner, and newcomer Lorenzo Booker is a pass-catching threat.
3. REDSKINS: Clinton Portis can still break open a game on any carry. Ladell Betts hits the holes quickly, has good acceleration and is an excellent receiver. Fullback Mike Sellers is a powerful blocker and capable short-yardage back.
4. GIANTS: Few teams can match the depth in the Giants' backfield. Brandon Jacobs is a load but must become more durable. Derrick Ward averaged 4.8 yards per carry in 2007, and Ahmad Bradshaw has the speed to become a star.
5. COWBOYS: Marion Barber will get his shot to start. He's a battering ram who can get the tough yards and close out games. The team hopes rookie Felix Jones will provide the big-play threat it lacked the past couple of years.
6. RAMS Steven Jackson has an imposing blend of speed, power and pass-catching ability, but durability was a problem in 2007. Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard haven't established themselves as viable options.
7. 49ERS: Frank Gore is a tough runner between the tackles and has the receiving skills to thrive in new coordinator Mike Martz's offense. Michael Robinson and DeShaun Foster are solid backups with good receiving skills.
8. FALCONS Not only can newcomer Michael Turner pound defenses with his 237-pound body, but he has big-play speed. Jerious Norwood also has breakaway ability, and Ovie Mughelli is a bruising lead blocker.
9. PACKERS: Ryan Grant was a revelation in his First year as a starter. He's big, moves the pile and is a home run threat. Brandon Jackson is shifty and can churn out yards between the tackles. DeShawn Wynn must mature fast.
10. BUCCANEERS: Even without Cadillac Williams, who will spend most of '08 rehabbing his knee, this is a strong unit. Earnest Graham is a workhorse, and Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett provide a change of pace.
11. CARDINALS: Edgerrin James still can squeeze 5 yards out of nothing, but he doesn't provide many big plays. Backup Marcel Shipp is a tough inside runner but lacks speed.
12. PANTHERS: With rookie Jonathan Stewart's strength inside and DeAngelo Williams' speed outside, the Panthers appear to have a nice combination. But Stewart is coming off toe surgery and Williams still has to prove himself.
13. SAINTS: Reggie Bush, who averaged 3.7 yards per carry and dropped too many passes in '08, must prove himself all over again. Deuce McAllister is coming off surgery on both knees. Pierre Thomas has proved he can fill in effectively -- at least for a short stretch.
14. SEAHAWKS: They made a lot of changes, but it's hard to say they'll be better. Julius Jones hits the hole hard but averaged 3.6 yards for Dallas in '07. T.J. Duckett has good size.
15. BEARS: Cedric Benson's job is in jeopardy after he was arrested twice this spring. If Benson goes, rookie Matt Forte likely will start, with Adrian Peterson as the backup.
16. LIONS: Third-round pick Kevin Smith likely will start, and his one-cut style fits the team's new zone-blocking scheme. Tatum Bell is the biggest name among the backups.
Sporting News correspondents
More: AFC running back rankings
In the latest installment of NFL offseason position rankings, SN's correspondents break down the running backs in the NFC.
1. VIKINGS: They have the best 1-2 punch in the league with Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. Peterson has a rare blend of speed and power and freezes defenders with his moves. Taylor is less explosive but runs just as hard.
2. EAGLES: Brian Westbrook is the NFL's most dangerous all-around back. He's almost unstoppable in the open field. Correll Buckhalter is a reliable power runner, and newcomer Lorenzo Booker is a pass-catching threat.
3. REDSKINS: Clinton Portis can still break open a game on any carry. Ladell Betts hits the holes quickly, has good acceleration and is an excellent receiver. Fullback Mike Sellers is a powerful blocker and capable short-yardage back.
4. GIANTS: Few teams can match the depth in the Giants' backfield. Brandon Jacobs is a load but must become more durable. Derrick Ward averaged 4.8 yards per carry in 2007, and Ahmad Bradshaw has the speed to become a star.
5. COWBOYS: Marion Barber will get his shot to start. He's a battering ram who can get the tough yards and close out games. The team hopes rookie Felix Jones will provide the big-play threat it lacked the past couple of years.
6. RAMS Steven Jackson has an imposing blend of speed, power and pass-catching ability, but durability was a problem in 2007. Antonio Pittman and Brian Leonard haven't established themselves as viable options.
7. 49ERS: Frank Gore is a tough runner between the tackles and has the receiving skills to thrive in new coordinator Mike Martz's offense. Michael Robinson and DeShaun Foster are solid backups with good receiving skills.
8. FALCONS Not only can newcomer Michael Turner pound defenses with his 237-pound body, but he has big-play speed. Jerious Norwood also has breakaway ability, and Ovie Mughelli is a bruising lead blocker.
9. PACKERS: Ryan Grant was a revelation in his First year as a starter. He's big, moves the pile and is a home run threat. Brandon Jackson is shifty and can churn out yards between the tackles. DeShawn Wynn must mature fast.
10. BUCCANEERS: Even without Cadillac Williams, who will spend most of '08 rehabbing his knee, this is a strong unit. Earnest Graham is a workhorse, and Warrick Dunn and Michael Bennett provide a change of pace.
11. CARDINALS: Edgerrin James still can squeeze 5 yards out of nothing, but he doesn't provide many big plays. Backup Marcel Shipp is a tough inside runner but lacks speed.
12. PANTHERS: With rookie Jonathan Stewart's strength inside and DeAngelo Williams' speed outside, the Panthers appear to have a nice combination. But Stewart is coming off toe surgery and Williams still has to prove himself.
13. SAINTS: Reggie Bush, who averaged 3.7 yards per carry and dropped too many passes in '08, must prove himself all over again. Deuce McAllister is coming off surgery on both knees. Pierre Thomas has proved he can fill in effectively -- at least for a short stretch.
14. SEAHAWKS: They made a lot of changes, but it's hard to say they'll be better. Julius Jones hits the hole hard but averaged 3.6 yards for Dallas in '07. T.J. Duckett has good size.
15. BEARS: Cedric Benson's job is in jeopardy after he was arrested twice this spring. If Benson goes, rookie Matt Forte likely will start, with Adrian Peterson as the backup.
16. LIONS: Third-round pick Kevin Smith likely will start, and his one-cut style fits the team's new zone-blocking scheme. Tatum Bell is the biggest name among the backups.
Interior Line Development
Rookie Andre Fluellen Finding Help and Camaraderie Amongst D-Line Vets
By Chrissie Wywrot
Detroitlions.com
June 18, 2008
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- While it isn’t necessarily labeled as a mentor-pupil relationship, Chuck Darby and Andre Fluellen are connected in many ways.
Darby, an eighth-year veteran, has been successful as a nose tackle in the Cover 2 system. He is 6-0, 297 pounds, and carries a big punch with the strength of getting off the line of scrimmage.
Fluellen, a rookie out of Florida State, has played the three-technique – or undertackle position – throughout his collegiate career. He is 6-2, 296 pounds and also has the strength of getting off the line of scrimmage.
“When I look at all the younger players, I most definitely want them to have a long, bright future in the NFL,” said Darby. “Just looking at them and all the talent that they have, all they need are small things to help them out and get even better and better each and every day to go out.”
EXPERIENCE vs. A NEW START
Darby and Fluellen are on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to NFL experience, but both are embarking on their first season in Detroit.
Darby is the projected starter at nose tackle while Fluellen will be learning both interior line positions so he will be able to back them up if necessary.
“One thing about this defense: it’s real tough when you’ve got to play the three-technique and the nose,” said Darby. “Because the three-technique, you’ve got a little time to gather; the nose, it happens real fast.
“That’s going to be the big thing for him making that transition from college to the NFL – playing two positions: D-tackle and nose guard. But I most definitely know he can do it. He has great hands, great quickness and leverage. That’s going to help out a whole lot.”
The biggest difference between the nose tackle and the undertackle is the position off the line of scrimmage. The nose tackle – Darby’s position – plays right up against the center. That means that once the ball is snapped, he has immediate contact.
The undertackle – Cory Redding’s position – plays off the line a little bit, giving him more approach time.
The two positions are different, so Fluellen will have a challenge when it comes to learning them both but – as Darby cited – his skill set will work to his advantage.
“What they drafted me for is getting off the ball; explosion,” said Fluellen. “That’s what I do and a lot of times I can get a little out of control, so that’s what Coach Marinelli and Coach (Joe) Cullen are trying to control (with) me so I can get off, make plays and things like that.”
THE D-LINE DYNAMIC
The two men Fluellen is learning under are two strong leaders within the defensive line position group.
Darby has not only spent seven seasons in the league, but he has spent five of those under Marinelli while in Tampa Bay. He has also started on two Super Bowl teams, winning a ring with the 2002 Buccaneers.
Redding has played on the interior line for two seasons and is a strong leader within the Lions’ locker room. He has a fiery dynamic and will give all he’s got each and every play, presenting a strong player to emulate.
“(What I have gotten from them so far is to) just relax,” said Fluellen. “Especially when I am practicing – I want to go at everything full-speed. They were like, ‘just calm it down and get your techniques right first and then once you get right then you can do it like that.’
“It’s kind of helped me relax and turn down a gear a little bit.”
As a first-year Lion, Darby sees how leadership is developing in this position group with a mix of strong veterans and new, young talent.
“I really think what I’ve learned looking at this group is that we’ve got a lot of leaders on this defense,” said Darby. “We’ve got a lot of players that lead by example. My job is to be a leader – I’ve been around a long time – but (I’m) just looking at these young players and how they are developing themselves to be great leaders also.
“But looking at everything as a whole, you’ve got Cory Redding who comes out day-in and day-out doing exactly what he’s supposed to do. He’s most definitely leading the pack and I’m right there adding a small touch to this great grind.”
SHADOWS OF TALENT
Defensive linemen under Marinelli experience the past.
Tackles watch film of Warren Sapp while ends watch film of Simeon Rice. Both played under Marinelli in Tampa and both flourished during that time.
“The way they played is the way that I want to play,” said Fluellen, “and I really feel that’s why Marinelli drafted me – because he kind of sees that in me.”
To watch film of Sapp is to see a man who never quit and was always giving it everything he had, regardless of the circumstances. It could have been gameday or a Friday afternoon after practice – Sapp gave it everything and that is what Marinelli looks for in his players today.
“I watched a lot of film of (Sapp) in college, too,” said Fluellen. “It’s crazy, some of the things he’s done. It’s not something nobody can do, but the way he perfected a lot of things is just kind of mind-blowing – the techniques and the perfectionist that he was.”
That feeling overtook Fluellen when he visited the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio with his fellow rookies a couple weeks ago.
“It’s one thing to be a great NFL player and it’s another thing to be a Hall of Famer,” he said. “That’s all-time greatness and nobody can take that from you. It really made me feel like there is something bigger than just being a good football player in the NFL.
“We all need to strive to have a bust put in the NFL Hall of Fame. That’s what I took from it.”
By Chrissie Wywrot
Detroitlions.com
June 18, 2008
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- While it isn’t necessarily labeled as a mentor-pupil relationship, Chuck Darby and Andre Fluellen are connected in many ways.
Darby, an eighth-year veteran, has been successful as a nose tackle in the Cover 2 system. He is 6-0, 297 pounds, and carries a big punch with the strength of getting off the line of scrimmage.
Fluellen, a rookie out of Florida State, has played the three-technique – or undertackle position – throughout his collegiate career. He is 6-2, 296 pounds and also has the strength of getting off the line of scrimmage.
“When I look at all the younger players, I most definitely want them to have a long, bright future in the NFL,” said Darby. “Just looking at them and all the talent that they have, all they need are small things to help them out and get even better and better each and every day to go out.”
EXPERIENCE vs. A NEW START
Darby and Fluellen are on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to NFL experience, but both are embarking on their first season in Detroit.
Darby is the projected starter at nose tackle while Fluellen will be learning both interior line positions so he will be able to back them up if necessary.
“One thing about this defense: it’s real tough when you’ve got to play the three-technique and the nose,” said Darby. “Because the three-technique, you’ve got a little time to gather; the nose, it happens real fast.
“That’s going to be the big thing for him making that transition from college to the NFL – playing two positions: D-tackle and nose guard. But I most definitely know he can do it. He has great hands, great quickness and leverage. That’s going to help out a whole lot.”
The biggest difference between the nose tackle and the undertackle is the position off the line of scrimmage. The nose tackle – Darby’s position – plays right up against the center. That means that once the ball is snapped, he has immediate contact.
The undertackle – Cory Redding’s position – plays off the line a little bit, giving him more approach time.
The two positions are different, so Fluellen will have a challenge when it comes to learning them both but – as Darby cited – his skill set will work to his advantage.
“What they drafted me for is getting off the ball; explosion,” said Fluellen. “That’s what I do and a lot of times I can get a little out of control, so that’s what Coach Marinelli and Coach (Joe) Cullen are trying to control (with) me so I can get off, make plays and things like that.”
THE D-LINE DYNAMIC
The two men Fluellen is learning under are two strong leaders within the defensive line position group.
Darby has not only spent seven seasons in the league, but he has spent five of those under Marinelli while in Tampa Bay. He has also started on two Super Bowl teams, winning a ring with the 2002 Buccaneers.
Redding has played on the interior line for two seasons and is a strong leader within the Lions’ locker room. He has a fiery dynamic and will give all he’s got each and every play, presenting a strong player to emulate.
“(What I have gotten from them so far is to) just relax,” said Fluellen. “Especially when I am practicing – I want to go at everything full-speed. They were like, ‘just calm it down and get your techniques right first and then once you get right then you can do it like that.’
“It’s kind of helped me relax and turn down a gear a little bit.”
As a first-year Lion, Darby sees how leadership is developing in this position group with a mix of strong veterans and new, young talent.
“I really think what I’ve learned looking at this group is that we’ve got a lot of leaders on this defense,” said Darby. “We’ve got a lot of players that lead by example. My job is to be a leader – I’ve been around a long time – but (I’m) just looking at these young players and how they are developing themselves to be great leaders also.
“But looking at everything as a whole, you’ve got Cory Redding who comes out day-in and day-out doing exactly what he’s supposed to do. He’s most definitely leading the pack and I’m right there adding a small touch to this great grind.”
SHADOWS OF TALENT
Defensive linemen under Marinelli experience the past.
Tackles watch film of Warren Sapp while ends watch film of Simeon Rice. Both played under Marinelli in Tampa and both flourished during that time.
“The way they played is the way that I want to play,” said Fluellen, “and I really feel that’s why Marinelli drafted me – because he kind of sees that in me.”
To watch film of Sapp is to see a man who never quit and was always giving it everything he had, regardless of the circumstances. It could have been gameday or a Friday afternoon after practice – Sapp gave it everything and that is what Marinelli looks for in his players today.
“I watched a lot of film of (Sapp) in college, too,” said Fluellen. “It’s crazy, some of the things he’s done. It’s not something nobody can do, but the way he perfected a lot of things is just kind of mind-blowing – the techniques and the perfectionist that he was.”
That feeling overtook Fluellen when he visited the Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio with his fellow rookies a couple weeks ago.
“It’s one thing to be a great NFL player and it’s another thing to be a Hall of Famer,” he said. “That’s all-time greatness and nobody can take that from you. It really made me feel like there is something bigger than just being a good football player in the NFL.
“We all need to strive to have a bust put in the NFL Hall of Fame. That’s what I took from it.”
Scouting Report: Corey Smith
by Tom Kowalski
Thursday June 19, 2008, 12:05 AM
2008 Scouting Report
Like most of Detroit's defensive linemen, Smith played better in the first eight games than he did in the last eight. Smith had 21 tackles and a career-high 2 ½ sacks in the first half but those numbers tailed off to 11 and zero, respectively, in the second half.
It should've been just the opposite, though, because Smith got more opportunities in the second half after Dewayne White was limited by his arm injury. The entire unit, though, went into such a malaise that no single player could pull them out of it.
Smith is a pass-rushing specialist and good special teams player and it might appear that his job could be in jeopardy with the arrival of third-round pick Cliff Avril, who has many of the same talents. With the loss of Kalimba Edwards, though, there shouldn't be a numbers problem with the roster and it's hard to believe that head coach Rod Marinelli will allow a solid backup pass rusher to get away.
While Smith knows the one-gap defense very well and rarely makes mistakes, he can still be a liability against the run because he's only about 250 pounds. As much as the Lions want to hope that he'll be more of a factor there, it's not likely to happen.
MY THOUGHTS
I am hoping that Smith gets more playing time. He gets in the backfield alot when he is playing. You have to have guys to get in the backfield consistantly. He may not ever be a starter but I think he should get more plays.
Thursday June 19, 2008, 12:05 AM
2008 Scouting Report
Like most of Detroit's defensive linemen, Smith played better in the first eight games than he did in the last eight. Smith had 21 tackles and a career-high 2 ½ sacks in the first half but those numbers tailed off to 11 and zero, respectively, in the second half.
It should've been just the opposite, though, because Smith got more opportunities in the second half after Dewayne White was limited by his arm injury. The entire unit, though, went into such a malaise that no single player could pull them out of it.
Smith is a pass-rushing specialist and good special teams player and it might appear that his job could be in jeopardy with the arrival of third-round pick Cliff Avril, who has many of the same talents. With the loss of Kalimba Edwards, though, there shouldn't be a numbers problem with the roster and it's hard to believe that head coach Rod Marinelli will allow a solid backup pass rusher to get away.
While Smith knows the one-gap defense very well and rarely makes mistakes, he can still be a liability against the run because he's only about 250 pounds. As much as the Lions want to hope that he'll be more of a factor there, it's not likely to happen.
MY THOUGHTS
I am hoping that Smith gets more playing time. He gets in the backfield alot when he is playing. You have to have guys to get in the backfield consistantly. He may not ever be a starter but I think he should get more plays.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Lions rookie sticks it to Navy, sort of
June 14, 2008
Look for Lions rookie safety Caleb Campbell on Army recruiting posters any day now.
OK, not really. But some folks in and around the nation's service academies say that Campbell's situation in Detroit could give Army's athletic programs an edge over rivals Navy and Air Force.
The Army is letting Campbell, a seventh-round pick in April's draft, pursue his Lions career while completing his military obligations as a recruiter and in the reserves under the Alternative Service Option
program.
Meanwhile, Navy pitcher Mitch Harris, a 13th-round pick by St. Louis in last week's baseball draft, was told Thursday to forget about doing the same.
Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter ruled that Harris must serve a five-year active-duty commitment, starting next week.
"At this point in time, the nation being at war takes precedence," Navy spokeswoman Lt. Karen Eifert said. "We need all of our manpower to be deployable to meet their service obligation."
That's where the Black Knights could gain an athletic advantage.
"Our coaches are now operating under a significant handicap when recruiting head-to-head with Army," Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuk said. "It may not be reflected on the playing field today, but I can guarantee you that it will result in a competitive disadvantage down the road."
So while Campbell never beat the Midshipmen during his college career, he has annoyed them -- at least indirectly.
Rouge preservation
British Columbia Sen. Larry Campbell -- no relation to Caleb -- introduced a bill this week aimed at preventing the NFL from putting a franchise in Canada. The bill was introduced in response to the decision to hold eight Bills games in Toronto over the next five years.
Such an expansion would mark the end of the Canadian Football League, Campbell warns.
"As proud Canadians and fans of the CFL, we must make every effort to defend our own brand of football," Campbell said.
And what a brand it is, eh, Charles Rogers?
Press clipping
• Bob Hille, Sporting News, on the Red Wings: "They lifted the Cup again. Good thing. If Detroit had lost, the city was going to start going by 'Bad NFL Draft Town.' "
Look for Lions rookie safety Caleb Campbell on Army recruiting posters any day now.
OK, not really. But some folks in and around the nation's service academies say that Campbell's situation in Detroit could give Army's athletic programs an edge over rivals Navy and Air Force.
The Army is letting Campbell, a seventh-round pick in April's draft, pursue his Lions career while completing his military obligations as a recruiter and in the reserves under the Alternative Service Option
program.
Meanwhile, Navy pitcher Mitch Harris, a 13th-round pick by St. Louis in last week's baseball draft, was told Thursday to forget about doing the same.
Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter ruled that Harris must serve a five-year active-duty commitment, starting next week.
"At this point in time, the nation being at war takes precedence," Navy spokeswoman Lt. Karen Eifert said. "We need all of our manpower to be deployable to meet their service obligation."
That's where the Black Knights could gain an athletic advantage.
"Our coaches are now operating under a significant handicap when recruiting head-to-head with Army," Navy athletic director Chet Gladchuk said. "It may not be reflected on the playing field today, but I can guarantee you that it will result in a competitive disadvantage down the road."
So while Campbell never beat the Midshipmen during his college career, he has annoyed them -- at least indirectly.
Rouge preservation
British Columbia Sen. Larry Campbell -- no relation to Caleb -- introduced a bill this week aimed at preventing the NFL from putting a franchise in Canada. The bill was introduced in response to the decision to hold eight Bills games in Toronto over the next five years.
Such an expansion would mark the end of the Canadian Football League, Campbell warns.
"As proud Canadians and fans of the CFL, we must make every effort to defend our own brand of football," Campbell said.
And what a brand it is, eh, Charles Rogers?
Press clipping
• Bob Hille, Sporting News, on the Red Wings: "They lifted the Cup again. Good thing. If Detroit had lost, the city was going to start going by 'Bad NFL Draft Town.' "
Scouting Report: Jon Bradley
by Tom Kowalski
Wednesday June 18, 2008, 12:04 AM
2008 Scouting Report
Bradley is another guy whose role will change as the team's offensive philosophy shifts once again. Bradley, the former defensive tackle, was shifted to fullback during camp last year because the Lions didn't have the thundering blocker they needed at that spot. Bradley did a pretty good job but the Lions never really got their running game going for a variety of well-documented reasons.
Now that the Lions are going to a different zone blocking scheme that stresses more agility and change-of-direction ability, the Lions have asked Bradley to lose some weight - and get under 300 pounds - to be more productive in that role.
Bradley, who will compete with rookie Jerome Felton and veteran Sean McHugh for the starting job, still won't be a major part of the offense in terms of handling the ball. He carried it just five times last year (for nine yards) and had three receptions (for 10 yards).
The one thing that might hurt Bradley is that he doesn't have the speed of the other fullbacks and that could hurt when it comes to special teams production.
MY THOUGHTS
I am pulling for Bradley. He is a huge guy who actually moved pretty good for his size and if he can lose the weight i see him making some noise and being a little more productive than we think. It all hinges on how much weight he loses and how agile and how much speed he gains.
Wednesday June 18, 2008, 12:04 AM
2008 Scouting Report
Bradley is another guy whose role will change as the team's offensive philosophy shifts once again. Bradley, the former defensive tackle, was shifted to fullback during camp last year because the Lions didn't have the thundering blocker they needed at that spot. Bradley did a pretty good job but the Lions never really got their running game going for a variety of well-documented reasons.
Now that the Lions are going to a different zone blocking scheme that stresses more agility and change-of-direction ability, the Lions have asked Bradley to lose some weight - and get under 300 pounds - to be more productive in that role.
Bradley, who will compete with rookie Jerome Felton and veteran Sean McHugh for the starting job, still won't be a major part of the offense in terms of handling the ball. He carried it just five times last year (for nine yards) and had three receptions (for 10 yards).
The one thing that might hurt Bradley is that he doesn't have the speed of the other fullbacks and that could hurt when it comes to special teams production.
MY THOUGHTS
I am pulling for Bradley. He is a huge guy who actually moved pretty good for his size and if he can lose the weight i see him making some noise and being a little more productive than we think. It all hinges on how much weight he loses and how agile and how much speed he gains.
Scouting Report: Paris Lenon
by Tom Kowalski
Tuesday June 17, 2008, 12:03 AM
It's hard not to like Paris Lenon. The seven-year veteran is one of those guys who has good all-around athleticism, knows how to play the game, has a burning competitive spirit and just refuses to stay off the field.
During his early years with the Packers - where he was on the practice squad as a rookie and then started 12 games four seasons later - the knock on Lenon was his quickness. He has good speed but he wasn't fluid in the defense and looked slow in making plays.
Lenon arrived in Detroit two years ago and flourished in the Tampa Two system because it allowed him to couple his football smarts with his athletic ability. Lenon was one of the first linebackers on the team to "get it'' and showed how effective the system could be. Lenon was very good in covering backs and, because he trusted his keys, he rarely allowed them much yardage after the catch.
Because he doesn't have the big power to play the middle, the Lions wanted to move him back to his more natural position on the strong side. However, the Lions are going to keep Lenon in the middle until rookie Jordon Dizon proves he can handle the position.
MY THOUGHTS
Paris isnt a bad linebacker but i think it isnt too long before Campbell is up and running at SLB and he will be either out or on the bench. Hopefully Dizon can take control of the MLB position so Lenon will have a much better year on the strong side. The position really does suit him better and we would have 3 good starting LB's that can cover and tackle.
Tuesday June 17, 2008, 12:03 AM
It's hard not to like Paris Lenon. The seven-year veteran is one of those guys who has good all-around athleticism, knows how to play the game, has a burning competitive spirit and just refuses to stay off the field.
During his early years with the Packers - where he was on the practice squad as a rookie and then started 12 games four seasons later - the knock on Lenon was his quickness. He has good speed but he wasn't fluid in the defense and looked slow in making plays.
Lenon arrived in Detroit two years ago and flourished in the Tampa Two system because it allowed him to couple his football smarts with his athletic ability. Lenon was one of the first linebackers on the team to "get it'' and showed how effective the system could be. Lenon was very good in covering backs and, because he trusted his keys, he rarely allowed them much yardage after the catch.
Because he doesn't have the big power to play the middle, the Lions wanted to move him back to his more natural position on the strong side. However, the Lions are going to keep Lenon in the middle until rookie Jordon Dizon proves he can handle the position.
MY THOUGHTS
Paris isnt a bad linebacker but i think it isnt too long before Campbell is up and running at SLB and he will be either out or on the bench. Hopefully Dizon can take control of the MLB position so Lenon will have a much better year on the strong side. The position really does suit him better and we would have 3 good starting LB's that can cover and tackle.
Scouting Reports: Dizon and Campbell
by Tom Kowalski
Monday June 16, 2008, 12:15 AM
Mike Itchue | MLive.com
Both Jordon Dizon and Caleb Campbell have the potential to help the Detroit Lions' defense, but each also comes with question marks.2008 Scouting Report
If truth be told, the middle linebacker the Lions really wanted in the recent draft was Jerod Mayo because he has all the skills the head coach Rod Marinelli was looking for.
The Lions took Dizon in the second round and he appears to have the same skill set as Mayo, except for one thing -- he's not the powerful stop-em-dead-in-their-tracks-and-turn-em-sideways hitter.
It's difficult to believe, though, that there was a linebacker in the draft who has better instincts than Dizon, who may not be a punishing hitter, but is a tackling machine nonetheless. Dizon has very good speed, can get quickly down the middle to cover his deep third and moves very well sideline to sideline.
The toughest part of the job for Dizon will be absorbing all the facets of the Tampa Two because his position has to be the quarterback on the field. Not only does he need to be mistake-free in his one-gap responsibilities, but he has to make all the calls in the huddle.
Until he gets in a few regular season games and shows his stuff, there's going to be the question of whether Dizon - at 6-0 and 230 pounds - can physically handle the rigors of the running game in the NFL. (Of course, Ernie Sims raised much of the same concern when he entered the league two years ago and dismissed that rather quickly.)
And, like Sims, Dizon will be "covered'' by defensive linemen in the scheme, but he'll still have to handle centers and guards who reach the second level. Detroit's coaches, though, believe Dizon's instincts will negate some of those problems because he reads plays so well - and so quickly - that he gets to the action before the blockers can get to him. And, yes, that half-step advantage in moving to the ballcarrier can make all the difference in whether a linebacker gets knocked off the tackle or makes the stick.
Dizon will start training camp as the backup linebacker to Paris Lenon and it'll be interesting to see how quickly he can move into the starting job. Remember, there was a bone of contention between Marinelli, who doesn't think a rookie can adequately handle the middle in his first year, and team president Matt Millen, who believes that the right player can get the job done. Marinelli wanted Dizon to start out on the strong side and then eventually work his way into middle when he had a strong grasp on the system.
The compromise is that Dizon will stay in the middle, but will have to prove to Marinelli that he can be effective before he gets promoted. Marinelli doesn't have many issues with Dizon having the physical abilities but he needs to make sure Dizon can nail down the mental part of it.
CALEB CAMPBELL
2008 Scouting Report
There are a couple of reasons why the Lions switched Caleb Campbell, a seventh-round pick out of Army, from safety to outside linebacker. The first is that Campbell has the size (6-2 and 230 pounds) to be an effective linebacker and the second is that the Lions currently have a logjam at safety and Campbell has a better shot of making the 53-man roster at linebacker.
Campbell is probably a better fit at linebacker at this level because his background is rich in stepping up to support the run. While he clearly has the toughness and tackling ability to be effective, the target on his chest has changed. The position change means that Campbell will have to deal more often with offensive linemen instead of just tight ends and running backs.
In the passing game, though, Campbell shouldn't have too much difficulty in making the transition. He understands zones and it won't take him long to learn the concept of the defense which puts an emphasis on breaking on your keys, not the ball.
While being effective in the defense is going to be important, Campbell will most likely have to make the team as a special teams player. That's where he'll have to make his biggest contributions and the door's open because the Lions want to make several upgrades in those areas.
By the way, if he doesn't make the final roster, Campbell is a top candidate for the practice squad because he has a lot of upside and, during practice, he has the versatility to play a lot of different positions.
MY THOUGHTS
Dizon is sounding more and more like a guy who got sold to the fans by the media who wasnt that great of a player. Remember when they kept saying that about Mayo too. Dizon, going by what you here from Marinelli is fast, is agile, an can cover.
Now as far as Campbell goes, every fan is rooting for him to make it.Not every Lions fan but every fan and some who arent football fans. I am going to say he will make some noise on special teams this year but i think he will get in some games as well. Someone always gets hurt and Campbell is just a guy who only knows one speed and you know he is already getting labeled " A Marinelli guy"
Monday June 16, 2008, 12:15 AM
Mike Itchue | MLive.com
Both Jordon Dizon and Caleb Campbell have the potential to help the Detroit Lions' defense, but each also comes with question marks.2008 Scouting Report
If truth be told, the middle linebacker the Lions really wanted in the recent draft was Jerod Mayo because he has all the skills the head coach Rod Marinelli was looking for.
The Lions took Dizon in the second round and he appears to have the same skill set as Mayo, except for one thing -- he's not the powerful stop-em-dead-in-their-tracks-and-turn-em-sideways hitter.
It's difficult to believe, though, that there was a linebacker in the draft who has better instincts than Dizon, who may not be a punishing hitter, but is a tackling machine nonetheless. Dizon has very good speed, can get quickly down the middle to cover his deep third and moves very well sideline to sideline.
The toughest part of the job for Dizon will be absorbing all the facets of the Tampa Two because his position has to be the quarterback on the field. Not only does he need to be mistake-free in his one-gap responsibilities, but he has to make all the calls in the huddle.
Until he gets in a few regular season games and shows his stuff, there's going to be the question of whether Dizon - at 6-0 and 230 pounds - can physically handle the rigors of the running game in the NFL. (Of course, Ernie Sims raised much of the same concern when he entered the league two years ago and dismissed that rather quickly.)
And, like Sims, Dizon will be "covered'' by defensive linemen in the scheme, but he'll still have to handle centers and guards who reach the second level. Detroit's coaches, though, believe Dizon's instincts will negate some of those problems because he reads plays so well - and so quickly - that he gets to the action before the blockers can get to him. And, yes, that half-step advantage in moving to the ballcarrier can make all the difference in whether a linebacker gets knocked off the tackle or makes the stick.
Dizon will start training camp as the backup linebacker to Paris Lenon and it'll be interesting to see how quickly he can move into the starting job. Remember, there was a bone of contention between Marinelli, who doesn't think a rookie can adequately handle the middle in his first year, and team president Matt Millen, who believes that the right player can get the job done. Marinelli wanted Dizon to start out on the strong side and then eventually work his way into middle when he had a strong grasp on the system.
The compromise is that Dizon will stay in the middle, but will have to prove to Marinelli that he can be effective before he gets promoted. Marinelli doesn't have many issues with Dizon having the physical abilities but he needs to make sure Dizon can nail down the mental part of it.
CALEB CAMPBELL
2008 Scouting Report
There are a couple of reasons why the Lions switched Caleb Campbell, a seventh-round pick out of Army, from safety to outside linebacker. The first is that Campbell has the size (6-2 and 230 pounds) to be an effective linebacker and the second is that the Lions currently have a logjam at safety and Campbell has a better shot of making the 53-man roster at linebacker.
Campbell is probably a better fit at linebacker at this level because his background is rich in stepping up to support the run. While he clearly has the toughness and tackling ability to be effective, the target on his chest has changed. The position change means that Campbell will have to deal more often with offensive linemen instead of just tight ends and running backs.
In the passing game, though, Campbell shouldn't have too much difficulty in making the transition. He understands zones and it won't take him long to learn the concept of the defense which puts an emphasis on breaking on your keys, not the ball.
While being effective in the defense is going to be important, Campbell will most likely have to make the team as a special teams player. That's where he'll have to make his biggest contributions and the door's open because the Lions want to make several upgrades in those areas.
By the way, if he doesn't make the final roster, Campbell is a top candidate for the practice squad because he has a lot of upside and, during practice, he has the versatility to play a lot of different positions.
MY THOUGHTS
Dizon is sounding more and more like a guy who got sold to the fans by the media who wasnt that great of a player. Remember when they kept saying that about Mayo too. Dizon, going by what you here from Marinelli is fast, is agile, an can cover.
Now as far as Campbell goes, every fan is rooting for him to make it.Not every Lions fan but every fan and some who arent football fans. I am going to say he will make some noise on special teams this year but i think he will get in some games as well. Someone always gets hurt and Campbell is just a guy who only knows one speed and you know he is already getting labeled " A Marinelli guy"
Scouting Report: Manny Ramirez
by Tom Kowalski
Sunday June 15, 2008, 12:05 AM
Ramirez might be the poster boy for what's been wrong with the Lions for the past several years - and none of it has anything to do with Ramirez himself.
Ramirez, at 6-3 and 325 pounds, is a brawling type of offensive lineman who brings plenty of muscle and was the kind of player the Lions were looking for when they were building their offense last year. That's why Ramirez was selected in the fourth round - the highest round in which Detroit drafted an offensive lineman since 2001.
This year, though, the Lions have altered their zone-blocking scheme and are putting a lot more emphasis on quickness, agility and getting to the second level to clean up linebackers. That's not the strength of Ramirez's game. If Ramirez had been eligible for the draft his year, not only would the Lions have passed on him in the fourth round but, because he doesn't fit their scheme, he probably wouldn't have been drafted by Detroit at all.
With the constant change in head coaches and offensive and defensive coordinators over the years - at least one of them has been changed in every season of president Matt Millen's regime - the Lions have failed to build any continuity and that's been reflected in the constant turnover of their roster.
The Lions are working on trying to get Ramirez to the point where he can be effective in their style, but perhaps they shouldn't go too far in changing him. After all, by next season, the Lions might change again and be looking for that brawling type of offensive lineman.
MY THOUGHTS
Well hard to argue with Tom. I was excited when I saw we drafted this guy but now that we are changing our schemes he now is just another wasted pick. Hmm, where have I heard that before? I hope he can change a little and use his strength but also work on his weakness. I would hope to keep Ramirez and even more that he excel in our new system but it doesnt look good for him right now.
Sunday June 15, 2008, 12:05 AM
Ramirez might be the poster boy for what's been wrong with the Lions for the past several years - and none of it has anything to do with Ramirez himself.
Ramirez, at 6-3 and 325 pounds, is a brawling type of offensive lineman who brings plenty of muscle and was the kind of player the Lions were looking for when they were building their offense last year. That's why Ramirez was selected in the fourth round - the highest round in which Detroit drafted an offensive lineman since 2001.
This year, though, the Lions have altered their zone-blocking scheme and are putting a lot more emphasis on quickness, agility and getting to the second level to clean up linebackers. That's not the strength of Ramirez's game. If Ramirez had been eligible for the draft his year, not only would the Lions have passed on him in the fourth round but, because he doesn't fit their scheme, he probably wouldn't have been drafted by Detroit at all.
With the constant change in head coaches and offensive and defensive coordinators over the years - at least one of them has been changed in every season of president Matt Millen's regime - the Lions have failed to build any continuity and that's been reflected in the constant turnover of their roster.
The Lions are working on trying to get Ramirez to the point where he can be effective in their style, but perhaps they shouldn't go too far in changing him. After all, by next season, the Lions might change again and be looking for that brawling type of offensive lineman.
MY THOUGHTS
Well hard to argue with Tom. I was excited when I saw we drafted this guy but now that we are changing our schemes he now is just another wasted pick. Hmm, where have I heard that before? I hope he can change a little and use his strength but also work on his weakness. I would hope to keep Ramirez and even more that he excel in our new system but it doesnt look good for him right now.
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