Scouting Report: Shaun Cody

Scouting Report: Shaun Cody
by Tom Kowalski
Sunday June 01, 2008, 6:08 AM

Saginaw News file photo
Shaun Cody stretches before drills during training camp at the Lions' Allen Park facility on July 26, 2007 .SHAUN CODY
2008 Scouting report

The Lions didn't spend a third-round draft pick on Andre Fluellen because they've been thrilled with Cody's production over the last two years. What's been maddening for the coaching staff is that there's no reason why Cody should be so ineffective and inconsistent. He's got good strength and excellent quickness, but he just doesn't put it altogether on a regular basis.

A lingering toe injury limited him two years ago, but he was healthy enough last year and didn't get much accomplished. Of Detroit's regular eight-man defensive line rotation, Cody was the only player not to record a sack. And he was rarely disruptive and failed to create opportunities for other players.


Some members of the organization believe Cody's biggest issue has been his less-than-intense approach to the game and they believe Shaun Rogers' departure will help send the message. Perhaps, but Cody isn't going to get a lot of time to prove that he can step up his game.

While rookie Cliff Avril slotted as a pass-rush specialist and Ikaika Alama-Francis' ability to move inside on passing downs, the Lions are only likely to keep four defensive tackles. Cory Redding has a lock on one job while Chuck Darby (because of his Tampa Two experience) and Fluellen (because of draft status) likely will win two other spots.

That means Cody has to beat out Langston Moore for the final position and, if you were to base that competition solely on last year's production, Cody will be out of a job.

But now Cody has one last chance to have his production match his potential. The clock is ticking.




My thoughts

Cody plays like he has no heart, desire or any kind of pride. He hasnt done anything well in the NFl except cash paychecks. I think it will be hard to keep him even if he does show his talent this year. How can you trust someone who hasnt proved he even wants to be there?