While the momentum of free agency has came to a standstill, there are still many things going on for the Detroit Lions. Here we take a look back at the past week and various news and notes regarding the team.
-A pair of 2014 Detroit Lions signed with the NY Jets. Corey Hilliard missed most of last season after suffering a Lisfranc injury in the opener, spending the last 15 games on injured reserve. Hilliard started seven games at right tackle in 2013. Kellen Davis, who also signed with the Jets, was a mid-season addition to the Lions due to their injuries at the Tight End position.
-Coach Caldwell was asked about the Lions potentially switching to a 3-4 defense, and quickly put that theory to rest : "It's not going to look any different than it did last year," Caldwell said at the NFL annual meetings . "We were extremely multiple. We did a little bit of everything, and I think you'll see the same thing happen this fall."
-The NFL has announced the official draft order for all rounds. The Lions sent their 4th and 5th round picks to the Baltimore Ravens in exchange for DT Hatoli Ngata and a 7th round pick.The Lions picks are as follows :
Round 1 - Pick No. 23 (23)
Round 2 - Pick No. 22 (54)
Round 3 - Pick No. 24 (88)
Round 6 - Pick No. 24 (200)
Round 7 - Pick No. 14 (231) *from Miami via Baltimore*
Round 7 - Pick No. 23 (240)
- Coach Caldwell commented on the potential of Golden Tate returning punts in 2015 : "It's a long time between now and then, know what I mean?" Caldwell said during the NFL owners meetings. "But he's always a factor in that area, so it just depends."I suspect at some point in time he's going to play a role in that area for us."
-Several media outlets had reported that the Lions may be a potential landing spot for controversial free-agent Ray Rice. Coach Caldwell said that Rice is not a fit in Detroit. "I just don't see it," Caldwell said of Rice playing for the Lions. "There has to be a need and a fit in all areas, and at this point in time, he's not a fit for us."