The Lions Need Five More Bodies, and Brad Holmes Has Options
The draft is done. The undrafted free agent scramble is mostly over. And here we are, sitting at 85 players on the roster when we need 90 for training camp.
This is where Brad Holmes gets to work the margins. Five more spots to fill, and while they might not all be difference makers, depth matters in this league. Here are four guys still sitting on the couch who could help the Lions get to 90 and maybe even contribute something meaningful.
Germaine Pratt Could Give Jimmy Rolder Some Competition
The Lions grabbed Jimmy Rolder in the fourth round to play Will linebacker, and he might just win that starting job. But right now? He’s competing with Malcolm Rodriguez, which is not exactly fierce competition for a rookie.
Pratt brings legitimate starting experience at Will linebacker. Even if he only holds down the spot for half a season while Rolder figures things out, that’s value. Sometimes the best move is giving your young guys someone worth beating out.
Remember Jahlani Tavai? He’s Available
Yes, that Jahlani Tavai. The former Lions second-round pick who didn’t work out here but went to the Patriots and started games for years.
Look, it didn’t click in Detroit the first time around. But Tavai proved he can play at this level, and he’d be competing for that same Will linebacker spot. At minimum, he’s legitimate training camp competition. At best? He’s a veteran who can start while the Lions develop Rolder. Sometimes guys just need a change of scenery to figure it out.
A.J. Epenesa Failed His Browns Physical
Here’s the thing about Epenesa. The Browns signed him, then he failed his physical and the deal fell through. That’s concerning, obviously. But it’s also an opportunity.
The Lions already have Derrick Moore as their starter and D.J. Wonnum in rotation. But depth along the defensive line never hurts, especially when the price is right. Give Epenesa a physical in Allen Park, see if he can pass it, and maybe the defensive line gets even deeper. Worth a look, at least.
Patrick Payton Went Undrafted for a Reason
Payton is an undrafted free agent from this past weekend’s draft, and honestly, it’s surprising he hasn’t been signed yet. He’s one of those players who just hasn’t put it all together, but the tools are there.
These are exactly the kind of guys you invite to training camp to see what happens. Sometimes raw talent figures itself out when the lights get bright. Sometimes it doesn’t. But for a camp spot? Worth finding out.
Think any of these guys actually make the final roster, or is Holmes just filling out the 90-man roster with warm bodies? Drop your take below.
