Schaddy
07-17-2005, 10:31 PM
2005 NFC North Preview
The black and blue division is set to embark on a new season. The Packers have won the division for three consecutive years, but there appears to be a shakeup in the power structure of the North on the horizon. The draft, free agency and trades have all led up to a different look for much of the NFC North, so now we are left to wonder: who will be the king of the mountain when all is said and done?
http://img248.echo.cx/img248/9448/minvik5uc.gifMinnesota Vikings
predicted finish: #1 division, 11-5 overall
The Vikings are coming off of one of the most active off seasons in the NFL. They traded away superstar receiver and world class headache Randy Moss in exchange for young linebacker Napoleon Harris and the #7 pick in the NFL Draft. They also brought in linebacker Sam Cowart from the Jets, DT Pat Williams from Buffalo, S Darren Sharper from the rival Packers and Fred Smoot from Washington. Cowart adds a veteran influence to a young group of linebackers. The group is now one of the more talented units in the NFC, with former Pro Bowler Cowart, Harris and emerging player E.J Henderson. The one problem with the Vikings’ linebackers may be that they will not excel in pass coverage, as each player is suited to playing an inside ‘backer position. However, each player has proven in the past that they can handle an outside assignment. The addition of Smoot is key; he will team with last year’s big signing, Antoine Winfield, to give Minnesota one of the better corner pairs in the league. Sharper will add a veteran hand to the safety spot, and still may have some big plays left in him. Williams will replace departed Chris Hovan at defensive tackle, and first round draft pick Erasmus James will push for a starting job at one defensive end immediately. The addition of James gives Minnesota a great future along the defensive line. The unit now includes Kevin Williams at tackle, who made the first of what figures to be many Pro Bowl appearances last season, former first rounder Kenechi Udeze, promising, versatile Darrion Scott, and hustling former undrafted free agent Spencer Johnson.
On offense, Minnesota added wideouts Travis Taylor (free agent) and Troy Williamson (draft), in addition to running back Ciatrik Fason, a potential draft day steal. Taylor was mostly a disappointment in Baltimore after being a top ten pick out of college, but will look to resurrect his career in Minnesota’s wide open passing attack. Williamson also figures to be an impact player, with blazing speed and emerging consistency. He should soon develop into an exciting deep threat.
The Vikings also return one of the league’s top quarterbacks in Daunte Culpepper. Culpepper had probably his finest season last year, and even without Moss, figures to put up gaudy numbers in the Metro Dome. The Vikings also return a solid cast at tight end, including the versatile Jim Kleinsasser and last year’s breakout player, Jermaine Wiggins. The Vikings’ running back position is less settled than the passing attack. Injury prone Michael Bennett is the incumbent, and is a home run threat when healthy. Moe Williams is a tough runner with solid receiving skills, and second year player Mwelde Moore showed flashes of brilliance when healthy last year. Fason could be a sleeper, but he’ll have a tough time getting playing time between the top three runners in a crowded Viking backfield. Minnesota also features a solid offensive line.
The Vikings figure to be good for 10 wins at least this year, and are the odds on favorite to wrest the division crown away from the Packers. With a superstar under center, a re-tooled and talented receiving corps, solid running backs and a much improved defense, the Vikings have to be considered one of the top teams in the NFC heading into 2005.
http://img186.echo.cx/img186/1958/grebay5dm.gifGreen Bay Packers
predicted finish: #2 division, 8-8 overall
The Packers have won this division for three years running, but they will probably face their most intense opposition yet this season. The Packers didn’t have a particularly successful off season, losing both starting guards and, though it could be considered addition by subtraction, their starting free safety.
At least good ol’ number 4 still resides in Titletown, and Brett plans on leading Green Bay to at least one more playoff appearance before riding off into the sunset. Back to help Favre is a deep cast of skill players, led by halfback Ahman Green. While Green had a bit of a down year last season, he’s still one of the most consistent and versatile feature backs in the league. Behind Green, the Packers have some of the league’s best backfield depth. Bruising Najeh Davenport showed last year what he can do while filling in for Green on Monday Night Football, rushing for 178 yards and serving notice that he will become a starter somewhere in the near future. Versatile third down back Tony Fisher also returns, and can be counted on for a key block, tough third down conversion or a dump off reception any time he’s on the field.
At wide receiver, the Packers return potentially one of the best tandems in the league. Potentially, that is, if third year Pro Bowler Javon Walker decided to end his contract holdout. Donald Driver proved once again to be a reliable, durable possession receiver last season, and Robert Ferguson, when healthy, can be a big play threat. In the draft the Packers selected Terrence Murphy in the second round, and the hope is that he can relieve pressure on the top three, Ferguson in particular, and provide quality depth if Walker’s contract issues remain unresolved. At tight end, the Packers return Bubba Franks, a reliable red zone target and solid blocker. Franks, too, has had contract issues in the off season that bear watching.
The Packers lost two outstanding guards to free agency, but have potential and reasonably solid depth behind them. Grey Ruegamer, Scott Wells, Kevin Barry, Matt O’Dwyer and Adrian Klemm are set to duke it out in training camp for the two starting guard spots. At least the Packers appear to be set at tackle, as Chad Clifton and Mark Tausher form one of the better pairs of bookends in the league. Mike Flanigan, a Pro Bowl player two years ago, looks to return to that form after missing most of last season with a torn ACL.
The Packers’ defense is their weakest point. Last year they struggled to do much against opposing quarterbacks, and the secondary again will have a lot to say as far as how far the Packers go this season. Al Harris is one of the more underrated corners in the league, but will have to play at a high level again to cover for whoever starts between second year men Ahmad Carrol and Joey Thomas, who last year were guilty of far too many penalties and not enough tackles. New defensive coordinator Jim Bates figures to take special interest in this group. Arturo Freeman followed Bates from Miami, and figures to start at one safety spot. At the other, Mark Roman will look to rebound from a horrendous first season in Green Bay.
The defensive line and linebacking corps of the Packers offer plenty of promise, but results will be needed to cover while the secondary gets its footing. Nick Barnett, Na’il Diggs, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and Grady Jackson are all above average players, and with a little more consistency and help from their friends, both Barnett and KGB can be Pro Bowl players. Aaron Kampman, Corey Jenkins and R-Kal Truluck will round out the defensive line, while Hannibal Navies or Raynoch Thompson will start along with Diggs and Barnett.
It looks like this is finally the year that the Packers don’t finish atop the black and blue division, but they have the talent and quarterback to make some noise within the division and into the playoffs.
http://img251.echo.cx/img251/4415/chibears7fw.gifChicago Bears
predicted finish: #3 division, 7-9 overall
The Bears have been a team with a solid defense and nothing on offense forever, it seems. That may finally change, however, as a pair of big names blew into the Windy City this off season.
Cedric Benson was one of the most productive backs in college football during his four year stay at Texas, and figures to be a solid, consistent back in the NFL, as well. He will step right into a starting role. Last year’s starter, Thomas Jones, adds quality depth behind Benson, and can spell him and also contribute big things as a third down back. Jones is an excellent receiver out of the backfield.
Chicago’s second big offensive acquisition is former Panthers wideout Mushin Muhammad. He went to the Pro Bowl last year with a career season, and figures to give the Bears their first true number one receiver in a long time. Bobby Wade, Bernard Berrian and Justin Gage all flashed plenty of potential last season and will all look to spark some big plays alongside Muhammad. Eddie Berlin and draft choice Michael Bradley add depth and will try to shove their way into a starting role. At tight end, the Bears lack star power but return a consistent player in Desmond Clark.
The Bears have gone through quarterbacks like flapjacks over the last decade, but if Rex Grossman can stay healthy, they may finally have a legit starter on their hands. Before tearing his ACL against the Vikings last year, Grossman was flashing an ability to lead the team effectively. If he can return healthy this year, he will continue his rise towards respectability. He lacks a truly special attribute, but is a good enough all around player to become an above average starting signal caller in this league. Grossman figures to get a competition from rookie Kyle Orton in training camp. Orton showed elite ability in college.
The offensive line is another place the Bears seem to be constantly trying to improve. They may have finally found a cohesive unit. John Tait, one of the game’s better right tackles, shifts to the left side with the free agent acquisition of veteran Fred Miller. Inside, Chicago will go with a tandem of improving Roberto Garza and veteran Ruben Brown. In the middle, the Bears have one of the league’s best centers. Olin Kreutz is a tough, mean throwback. The heart and soul of this offensive line, Kreutz will look to regain his status as a Pro Bowl player this year.
The Bears’ defense is the one sure thing. They feature a deep, talented group of defensive linemen. Adewale Ogunleye figures to be better in his second year in Chicago after posting 5 sacks last year. Alex Brown led the team with 6. Tommie Harris was solid as a rookie, with 3.5 sacks and will also improve this year. Depth included Michael Haynes, Alfonso Boone, Ian Scott and Tank Johnson.
Brian Urlacher leads an emerging linebacker corps. Urlacher is a steady Pro Bowler, and last year collected 5 sacks and an interception in only 9 games. He looks to return healthy this year and be the heart of the Bears’ defense. Lance Briggs took advantage of Urlacher’s absence to step into the spotlight, with 126 tackles and an interception. Hunter Hillenmeyer, who filled in ably for Urlacher last year, Marcus Reeese and Joe Odom will compete for the third ‘backer spot.
The Bears’ secondary had to deal with quite a few injuries last year, but with good health could be one of the better units in the NFC. Charles Tillman is a solid young corner, but was hurt at times last year by the renewed interest in calling defensive holding calls. He will likely stay aggressive and has shut down ability. On the other side, Jerry Azumah isn’t special, but has a knack for making plays. He had 4 picks last season. Nathan Vasher showed that despite his small stature, he can make plays as well, with a team leading 5 interceptions. He’s a solid third corner. Free safety Mike Brown was hurt for most of last year but is a game changing playmaker when healthy. Michael Brown had a breakout year at the other safety, with 106 tackles, 2 picks and 4 fumble recoveries. Todd Johnson is a quality backup.
The Bears have struggled for a long time, but this may be the year that they finally begin their charge towards the top of the division. They have made big strides towards having a more balanced team, and while the playoffs probably aren’t in their immediate future, they aren’t far away.
http://img186.echo.cx/img186/2366/detlion9lb.gifDetroit Lions
predicted finish #4 division, 7-9 overall
The Lions made a surprising move in the NFL draft, and it adds another piece to what’s starting to look like a powerful offensive engine in the Motor City.
Mike Williams joins Roy Williams, last year’s outstanding rookie, and Charles Rogers, the Lions’ top pick two years ago, to form one of the best young receiving trios in the NFL. Roy Williams was fantastic as a rookie, making highlight reel catches and finishing with 54 receptions and 8 touchdowns in 14 games. Rogers will look to rebound from yet another season ending shoulder injury, and Mike Williams will figure to add another big, strong target for the Lions. Kevin Johnson adds solid depth as the number four wideout. Marcus Pollard finally provides a legit downfield threat at tight end, and will team with Casey Fitzsimmons to give the Lions a solid duo working the middle. Detroit has one of the most promising receiving corps in the league.
Kevin Jones got better and better as last season went on, and gave the Lions yet another outstanding young offensive player. He figures to challenge the 1,500 yard mark this season. Artose Pinner and Shawn Bryson, a good receiver out of the backfield, provide solid depth.
Quarterback is one of Detroit’s least settled positions. Joey Harrington has been expected to break out for a couple of years now, but has left fans very disappointed each time. He still has a lot of potential, but may actually be unseated by veteran Jeff Garcia. Garcia is a favorite of Coach Steve Mariucci from their days in San Fransisco, and may be the man to direct Detroit’s talented young guns. This figures to be one of the more hotly contested training camp battles in the league, and the outcome very well could determine whether the Lions flop again or take off towards the top of the division.
Detroit added to its offensive line for the second consecutive off season, adding former Colts starter Rick DeMulling at right guard. Damien Woody, last year’s big free agent offensive lineman, had a solid first year in Detroit, and will look to improve as he gets more comfortable. Youngsters Kelly Butler and Victor Rogers will duke it out to replace Stockar McDougle at right tackle, and Donovan Raiola will look to improve at center. At least Detroit can count on left tackle Jeff Backus, who continues to improve and is one of the best young linemen in the league.
On defense, the Lions return some solid young linemen. James Hall had a breakout year, with 11.5 sacks, and Shaun Rogers contributed 4 while establishing himself as one of the league’s best interior run stoppers. Cory Redding and Kalimba Edwards will battle for the starting spot opposite Hall, but both are promising young players who will contribute whether it’s off the bench or in the starting lineup. “Big Daddy” Dan Wilkinson adds a veteran hand on the defensive line, and this unit figures to be a strength of the Lions’ defense.
Detroit is counting on a big comeback from Boss Bailey at linebacker, as his athleticism and big play ability was missed last season. Teddy Lehman, however, took advantage of the situation and had a very solid rookie year, finishing with 102 tackles, a sack and a pick. He will start somewhere, no matter what happens with Bailey. Earl Holmes keeps plugging along in the middle, doing nothing special but effectively stopping the run. He had over a hundred tackles last year as well. James Davis filled in ably for Bailey last year, with 83 tackles and 3.5 sacks, and will add solid depth assuming Bailey stays healthy.
Fernando Bryant came to Detroit in the off season to give the Lions a long awaited complimentary piece for Pro Bowler Dre Bly. Bly is a playmaker and shuts down one side of the field, and if Bryant can hold his own on the other side, the Lions will be looking at one of the better pair of corners in the NFC. The situation at safety is less solid, with big hitter Kenoy Kennedy sliding in at strong safety and Terrence Holt figuring to start at free. Holt has plenty of potential but is a first time starter at a crucial position. The Lions are hoping that the corners will play well enough to allow him time to get comfortable.
The Lions are a hard team to call heading into 2005-06. They could get their quarterback situation settled, have their safeties and offensive line gel, and win 10 games. They could also, probably just as likely, struggle to win more than six games. Given their recent history and unsettled quarterback situation, it’s more likely that the latter alternative will be their season outcome. They are, however, a very dangerous team and very well could find themselves challenging for the division crown.
The black and blue division is set to embark on a new season. The Packers have won the division for three consecutive years, but there appears to be a shakeup in the power structure of the North on the horizon. The draft, free agency and trades have all led up to a different look for much of the NFC North, so now we are left to wonder: who will be the king of the mountain when all is said and done?
http://img248.echo.cx/img248/9448/minvik5uc.gifMinnesota Vikings
predicted finish: #1 division, 11-5 overall
The Vikings are coming off of one of the most active off seasons in the NFL. They traded away superstar receiver and world class headache Randy Moss in exchange for young linebacker Napoleon Harris and the #7 pick in the NFL Draft. They also brought in linebacker Sam Cowart from the Jets, DT Pat Williams from Buffalo, S Darren Sharper from the rival Packers and Fred Smoot from Washington. Cowart adds a veteran influence to a young group of linebackers. The group is now one of the more talented units in the NFC, with former Pro Bowler Cowart, Harris and emerging player E.J Henderson. The one problem with the Vikings’ linebackers may be that they will not excel in pass coverage, as each player is suited to playing an inside ‘backer position. However, each player has proven in the past that they can handle an outside assignment. The addition of Smoot is key; he will team with last year’s big signing, Antoine Winfield, to give Minnesota one of the better corner pairs in the league. Sharper will add a veteran hand to the safety spot, and still may have some big plays left in him. Williams will replace departed Chris Hovan at defensive tackle, and first round draft pick Erasmus James will push for a starting job at one defensive end immediately. The addition of James gives Minnesota a great future along the defensive line. The unit now includes Kevin Williams at tackle, who made the first of what figures to be many Pro Bowl appearances last season, former first rounder Kenechi Udeze, promising, versatile Darrion Scott, and hustling former undrafted free agent Spencer Johnson.
On offense, Minnesota added wideouts Travis Taylor (free agent) and Troy Williamson (draft), in addition to running back Ciatrik Fason, a potential draft day steal. Taylor was mostly a disappointment in Baltimore after being a top ten pick out of college, but will look to resurrect his career in Minnesota’s wide open passing attack. Williamson also figures to be an impact player, with blazing speed and emerging consistency. He should soon develop into an exciting deep threat.
The Vikings also return one of the league’s top quarterbacks in Daunte Culpepper. Culpepper had probably his finest season last year, and even without Moss, figures to put up gaudy numbers in the Metro Dome. The Vikings also return a solid cast at tight end, including the versatile Jim Kleinsasser and last year’s breakout player, Jermaine Wiggins. The Vikings’ running back position is less settled than the passing attack. Injury prone Michael Bennett is the incumbent, and is a home run threat when healthy. Moe Williams is a tough runner with solid receiving skills, and second year player Mwelde Moore showed flashes of brilliance when healthy last year. Fason could be a sleeper, but he’ll have a tough time getting playing time between the top three runners in a crowded Viking backfield. Minnesota also features a solid offensive line.
The Vikings figure to be good for 10 wins at least this year, and are the odds on favorite to wrest the division crown away from the Packers. With a superstar under center, a re-tooled and talented receiving corps, solid running backs and a much improved defense, the Vikings have to be considered one of the top teams in the NFC heading into 2005.
http://img186.echo.cx/img186/1958/grebay5dm.gifGreen Bay Packers
predicted finish: #2 division, 8-8 overall
The Packers have won this division for three years running, but they will probably face their most intense opposition yet this season. The Packers didn’t have a particularly successful off season, losing both starting guards and, though it could be considered addition by subtraction, their starting free safety.
At least good ol’ number 4 still resides in Titletown, and Brett plans on leading Green Bay to at least one more playoff appearance before riding off into the sunset. Back to help Favre is a deep cast of skill players, led by halfback Ahman Green. While Green had a bit of a down year last season, he’s still one of the most consistent and versatile feature backs in the league. Behind Green, the Packers have some of the league’s best backfield depth. Bruising Najeh Davenport showed last year what he can do while filling in for Green on Monday Night Football, rushing for 178 yards and serving notice that he will become a starter somewhere in the near future. Versatile third down back Tony Fisher also returns, and can be counted on for a key block, tough third down conversion or a dump off reception any time he’s on the field.
At wide receiver, the Packers return potentially one of the best tandems in the league. Potentially, that is, if third year Pro Bowler Javon Walker decided to end his contract holdout. Donald Driver proved once again to be a reliable, durable possession receiver last season, and Robert Ferguson, when healthy, can be a big play threat. In the draft the Packers selected Terrence Murphy in the second round, and the hope is that he can relieve pressure on the top three, Ferguson in particular, and provide quality depth if Walker’s contract issues remain unresolved. At tight end, the Packers return Bubba Franks, a reliable red zone target and solid blocker. Franks, too, has had contract issues in the off season that bear watching.
The Packers lost two outstanding guards to free agency, but have potential and reasonably solid depth behind them. Grey Ruegamer, Scott Wells, Kevin Barry, Matt O’Dwyer and Adrian Klemm are set to duke it out in training camp for the two starting guard spots. At least the Packers appear to be set at tackle, as Chad Clifton and Mark Tausher form one of the better pairs of bookends in the league. Mike Flanigan, a Pro Bowl player two years ago, looks to return to that form after missing most of last season with a torn ACL.
The Packers’ defense is their weakest point. Last year they struggled to do much against opposing quarterbacks, and the secondary again will have a lot to say as far as how far the Packers go this season. Al Harris is one of the more underrated corners in the league, but will have to play at a high level again to cover for whoever starts between second year men Ahmad Carrol and Joey Thomas, who last year were guilty of far too many penalties and not enough tackles. New defensive coordinator Jim Bates figures to take special interest in this group. Arturo Freeman followed Bates from Miami, and figures to start at one safety spot. At the other, Mark Roman will look to rebound from a horrendous first season in Green Bay.
The defensive line and linebacking corps of the Packers offer plenty of promise, but results will be needed to cover while the secondary gets its footing. Nick Barnett, Na’il Diggs, Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and Grady Jackson are all above average players, and with a little more consistency and help from their friends, both Barnett and KGB can be Pro Bowl players. Aaron Kampman, Corey Jenkins and R-Kal Truluck will round out the defensive line, while Hannibal Navies or Raynoch Thompson will start along with Diggs and Barnett.
It looks like this is finally the year that the Packers don’t finish atop the black and blue division, but they have the talent and quarterback to make some noise within the division and into the playoffs.
http://img251.echo.cx/img251/4415/chibears7fw.gifChicago Bears
predicted finish: #3 division, 7-9 overall
The Bears have been a team with a solid defense and nothing on offense forever, it seems. That may finally change, however, as a pair of big names blew into the Windy City this off season.
Cedric Benson was one of the most productive backs in college football during his four year stay at Texas, and figures to be a solid, consistent back in the NFL, as well. He will step right into a starting role. Last year’s starter, Thomas Jones, adds quality depth behind Benson, and can spell him and also contribute big things as a third down back. Jones is an excellent receiver out of the backfield.
Chicago’s second big offensive acquisition is former Panthers wideout Mushin Muhammad. He went to the Pro Bowl last year with a career season, and figures to give the Bears their first true number one receiver in a long time. Bobby Wade, Bernard Berrian and Justin Gage all flashed plenty of potential last season and will all look to spark some big plays alongside Muhammad. Eddie Berlin and draft choice Michael Bradley add depth and will try to shove their way into a starting role. At tight end, the Bears lack star power but return a consistent player in Desmond Clark.
The Bears have gone through quarterbacks like flapjacks over the last decade, but if Rex Grossman can stay healthy, they may finally have a legit starter on their hands. Before tearing his ACL against the Vikings last year, Grossman was flashing an ability to lead the team effectively. If he can return healthy this year, he will continue his rise towards respectability. He lacks a truly special attribute, but is a good enough all around player to become an above average starting signal caller in this league. Grossman figures to get a competition from rookie Kyle Orton in training camp. Orton showed elite ability in college.
The offensive line is another place the Bears seem to be constantly trying to improve. They may have finally found a cohesive unit. John Tait, one of the game’s better right tackles, shifts to the left side with the free agent acquisition of veteran Fred Miller. Inside, Chicago will go with a tandem of improving Roberto Garza and veteran Ruben Brown. In the middle, the Bears have one of the league’s best centers. Olin Kreutz is a tough, mean throwback. The heart and soul of this offensive line, Kreutz will look to regain his status as a Pro Bowl player this year.
The Bears’ defense is the one sure thing. They feature a deep, talented group of defensive linemen. Adewale Ogunleye figures to be better in his second year in Chicago after posting 5 sacks last year. Alex Brown led the team with 6. Tommie Harris was solid as a rookie, with 3.5 sacks and will also improve this year. Depth included Michael Haynes, Alfonso Boone, Ian Scott and Tank Johnson.
Brian Urlacher leads an emerging linebacker corps. Urlacher is a steady Pro Bowler, and last year collected 5 sacks and an interception in only 9 games. He looks to return healthy this year and be the heart of the Bears’ defense. Lance Briggs took advantage of Urlacher’s absence to step into the spotlight, with 126 tackles and an interception. Hunter Hillenmeyer, who filled in ably for Urlacher last year, Marcus Reeese and Joe Odom will compete for the third ‘backer spot.
The Bears’ secondary had to deal with quite a few injuries last year, but with good health could be one of the better units in the NFC. Charles Tillman is a solid young corner, but was hurt at times last year by the renewed interest in calling defensive holding calls. He will likely stay aggressive and has shut down ability. On the other side, Jerry Azumah isn’t special, but has a knack for making plays. He had 4 picks last season. Nathan Vasher showed that despite his small stature, he can make plays as well, with a team leading 5 interceptions. He’s a solid third corner. Free safety Mike Brown was hurt for most of last year but is a game changing playmaker when healthy. Michael Brown had a breakout year at the other safety, with 106 tackles, 2 picks and 4 fumble recoveries. Todd Johnson is a quality backup.
The Bears have struggled for a long time, but this may be the year that they finally begin their charge towards the top of the division. They have made big strides towards having a more balanced team, and while the playoffs probably aren’t in their immediate future, they aren’t far away.
http://img186.echo.cx/img186/2366/detlion9lb.gifDetroit Lions
predicted finish #4 division, 7-9 overall
The Lions made a surprising move in the NFL draft, and it adds another piece to what’s starting to look like a powerful offensive engine in the Motor City.
Mike Williams joins Roy Williams, last year’s outstanding rookie, and Charles Rogers, the Lions’ top pick two years ago, to form one of the best young receiving trios in the NFL. Roy Williams was fantastic as a rookie, making highlight reel catches and finishing with 54 receptions and 8 touchdowns in 14 games. Rogers will look to rebound from yet another season ending shoulder injury, and Mike Williams will figure to add another big, strong target for the Lions. Kevin Johnson adds solid depth as the number four wideout. Marcus Pollard finally provides a legit downfield threat at tight end, and will team with Casey Fitzsimmons to give the Lions a solid duo working the middle. Detroit has one of the most promising receiving corps in the league.
Kevin Jones got better and better as last season went on, and gave the Lions yet another outstanding young offensive player. He figures to challenge the 1,500 yard mark this season. Artose Pinner and Shawn Bryson, a good receiver out of the backfield, provide solid depth.
Quarterback is one of Detroit’s least settled positions. Joey Harrington has been expected to break out for a couple of years now, but has left fans very disappointed each time. He still has a lot of potential, but may actually be unseated by veteran Jeff Garcia. Garcia is a favorite of Coach Steve Mariucci from their days in San Fransisco, and may be the man to direct Detroit’s talented young guns. This figures to be one of the more hotly contested training camp battles in the league, and the outcome very well could determine whether the Lions flop again or take off towards the top of the division.
Detroit added to its offensive line for the second consecutive off season, adding former Colts starter Rick DeMulling at right guard. Damien Woody, last year’s big free agent offensive lineman, had a solid first year in Detroit, and will look to improve as he gets more comfortable. Youngsters Kelly Butler and Victor Rogers will duke it out to replace Stockar McDougle at right tackle, and Donovan Raiola will look to improve at center. At least Detroit can count on left tackle Jeff Backus, who continues to improve and is one of the best young linemen in the league.
On defense, the Lions return some solid young linemen. James Hall had a breakout year, with 11.5 sacks, and Shaun Rogers contributed 4 while establishing himself as one of the league’s best interior run stoppers. Cory Redding and Kalimba Edwards will battle for the starting spot opposite Hall, but both are promising young players who will contribute whether it’s off the bench or in the starting lineup. “Big Daddy” Dan Wilkinson adds a veteran hand on the defensive line, and this unit figures to be a strength of the Lions’ defense.
Detroit is counting on a big comeback from Boss Bailey at linebacker, as his athleticism and big play ability was missed last season. Teddy Lehman, however, took advantage of the situation and had a very solid rookie year, finishing with 102 tackles, a sack and a pick. He will start somewhere, no matter what happens with Bailey. Earl Holmes keeps plugging along in the middle, doing nothing special but effectively stopping the run. He had over a hundred tackles last year as well. James Davis filled in ably for Bailey last year, with 83 tackles and 3.5 sacks, and will add solid depth assuming Bailey stays healthy.
Fernando Bryant came to Detroit in the off season to give the Lions a long awaited complimentary piece for Pro Bowler Dre Bly. Bly is a playmaker and shuts down one side of the field, and if Bryant can hold his own on the other side, the Lions will be looking at one of the better pair of corners in the NFC. The situation at safety is less solid, with big hitter Kenoy Kennedy sliding in at strong safety and Terrence Holt figuring to start at free. Holt has plenty of potential but is a first time starter at a crucial position. The Lions are hoping that the corners will play well enough to allow him time to get comfortable.
The Lions are a hard team to call heading into 2005-06. They could get their quarterback situation settled, have their safeties and offensive line gel, and win 10 games. They could also, probably just as likely, struggle to win more than six games. Given their recent history and unsettled quarterback situation, it’s more likely that the latter alternative will be their season outcome. They are, however, a very dangerous team and very well could find themselves challenging for the division crown.