Training Camp Roster – 40 Lock

The Lions preseason roster was in the Detroit News the other day.  Something I did in years past – when the the roster was in much more flux than it is this season – was to have everyone list their “30 lock” — 30 guys they were sure would be on the roster at the final cutdown.  This year, we’re going to to the 40 players you feel will be on the roster when the Turk makes his final cutdown rounds after the 4th preseason game.   

Leave your list in the comments, and when the final cutdown occurs I’ll take a look at how we did.  In years past, the collective knowledge of this blog’s readers were pretty much spot on.  How will we fare this year?

Lions Congregation: Roster Thoughts

With training camp rapidly approaching (and me back from vacation) the Lions Congregation is returning to a weekly format from now through the end of the season.  With camp rapidly approaching, the numbers of emails ha also picked up — please keep sending your great questions to lionscongregation@yahoo.com!

Up this week, the panel considers first round picks and early roster spots.  The Panel:

Al of the Wayne Fontes Experience
Steve of Detroit Lions Weblog
NetRat of The Netrat Detroit Lions Site
Zac of The Sidelion Report
Phil of Mlive.com
Blades Boyd formerly of The Church of Schwartz
Joshua aka DetFan1979 of Roar of the Lions

1. From Juan G.: Gerald McCoy has already basically said he will sign after Bradford does.  Bradford may not be in camp on time.  How does this bode for getting Suh and Best in camp in time?

Al: If we were still living in the days of Ford lackey Russ Thomas stonewalling draft picks, when holdouts were as common as losing seasons, I’d be worried. Actually, I’m still mentally scarred from those years. I’m always fighting off the voice of a young Big Al in the back of my head saying,

“DUDE! THERE”S GONNA BE HOLDOUTS!”

But I’m not concerned. Yes, training camp is only a week away. But it’s in crunch time, that final week before camp, when the vast majority of 1st round deals are signed.

Remember, it’s not as if the Lions are the only team with 1st round picks unsigned. The ENTIRE NFL had yet to agree to terms with a 1st round pick till the Cowboys finally inked Dez Bryant, the 24th selection of the draft, on Thursday night. With one signing done, you can expect others to sign deals like so many dominoes falling.

The Lions know they need Suh and Best in camp. Suh and Best know they need to be in camp. When both parties know what needs to be done, and there’s a deadline looming, that’s when deals come together. An agreement might not be reached until the afternoon of the first workout on July 31st, but a deal will get done.

Steve: Suh has openly stated that he will sign before camp and I believe that even IF he doesn’t sign prior to camp, I fully expect that he and the Lions will come to a rapid agreement in the early stages of the pre-season.

NetRat: Lewand doesn’t usually care or wait for what the other draft picks do.  However, Suh’s agent may not be the same way.  Still, there are finite limits to the contract that come into play… there is a rookie pool this year (even though there is no cap for the team) and there are still rules on about increases or decreases year over year salary and roster bonuses not exceeding 30%… so the critical parts of the contract will come to what the total length of the contract will be (5 or 6 years) and what it will take to reach an incentive.  The total dollars for the contract can’t exceed a certain amount or it won’t fit under both the rookie pool and the 30% rule.  That said, since it was admitted a month or two ago by an agent that they have held out for a mere couple thousand dollars it could be tough sledding for Lewand.  The press could actually help the situation, if they hound Suh enough (Suh hates drama) then he could and probably would TELL his agent to take the deal and get into camp (rather then hold out).  Suh has said he doesn’t want to hold out… but “doesn’t want” and “will not” are two different things.  I have high hopes he’ll be there within a couple of days of the start of camp.

Zac: The Lions actually seem to be ahead of the rest of the league in terms of signing rookies. It shouldn’t be a surprise that both unsigned picks are first rounders, such is the nature of the beast. I’m not worried about Jahvid Best getting to camp on time. He’s not one of those guys that slid to the end of the first round yet holds delusions of top-ten money. Ndamukong Suh’s situation is a little different as the number two overall pick and first defensive tackle off the board. The Rams ability to sign Sam Bradford may or may not alter Suh’s negotiations. Suh has stated that he would like to report on time but don’t expect him to leave dollars on the table to make that happen. He may miss a couple days of practice but a lengthy holdout doesn’t seem likely. The Cowboys became the first team to sign their first-round draft pick on Thursday. Not surprising considering the Cowboys are one of the first teams to report to camp. Contract negotiations are volatile situations and the pressure isn’t really on until the first practice approaches. A lot will change in the next week and picture should look a whole lot better.

Phil: Gerald McCoy can say he’ll sign after Bradford does because they’re
represented by the same agents. I’m sure those agents weren’t happy he
pointed it out to the media, but it’s nothing earth-shattering. In fact,
the same agency also represents Redskins offensive tackle Trent
Williams, who went fourth overall. So let’s just say they’ll have a say
in how the signings go.

As late as it is, and as much as people want the Lions to sign their top
two picks, you really can’t make artificial deadlines in negotiations.
That’s just not how it works. They need to get down to the wire, and
then they’ll hammer something out. That’s not to say they won’t miss any
time. But I wouldn’t expect it to be a significant amount. All that
said, if Suh does miss a significant amount of time — a week of camp,
for example — it’s likely to affect his play for the first half of the
season.

Blades: I don’t think Best will be a factor at all. Very rarely do you see players drafted in the late first round hold out so there’s little doubt, in my opinion, he’ll be in camp on time. Suh, however, is a totally different story. The reason I’m concerned about Suh is at his first press conference as a Lion he said something along the lines of, “I feel I’m the best player in this draft class and Coach Schwartz says he feels like I’m the best player in the draft class so I assume I’ll be paid as the best player…” Now I’m not sure if that was the direct quote but I know it was VERY similar to that. Suh has stated he wants to be in camp on time but due to the history of his agents, that is very unlikely. I honestly believe that whoever signs first, between McCoy and Suh, the other player will sign a contract almost identical.

DetFan1979: Lewand (and his staff) have always been excellent in getting deals done to get the picks into camp on time – or only missing at most a couple of days.  Thanks in part to the chronic ineptitude of the Lions, the organization has had a lot of experience signing early draft draft picks.  Best I don’t forsee being a problem at all – especially with Dex Bryant singing on to a standard slotted contract near where Best was picked.

When it comes to Suh, what Bradford and McCoy et al do or do not agree to will not be the basis for the deal.  They will be working down from Matthew Stafford’s deal last year, and trying to come to a number that is less than that but as high as possible for Suh without him earning the same as Stafford.  Lions will want it a bit lower, Suh’s agents a bit higher.  In the end, I feel the Lions and Suh’s agents are already in the same ball park, and that they will get a deal done by the 2nd of August at the latest (that is the 5th day of camp).  Suh may even be in camp on time as his agents realize all too well I am sure how much it means to fans – and thus Suh’s marketability early – how important it is symbolically for him to be on the field when the first practice of camp opens.

2. From Brian S.: It’s obviously still way too early, but give us your best guess for the opening day lineups on offense and defense…

Al:

Yes, I agree it is way too early. We don’t know if Brandon Pettigrew or Kevin Smith will be fully healthy by the end of camp, who will take Ernie Sims‘ place at linebacker, or who will play next to Louis Delmas at safety. But other than that…well, now that I think about  it…maybe we can make an educated guess.

Offense:

QB: Matthew Stafford
RB: Jahvid Best (Kevin Smith gets plenty of carries…if healthy)
FB: Jerome Felton (Tony Scheffler playing as an H back gets most of the playing time)
WR: Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson
TE: Tony Scheffler (Brandon Pettigrew will be brought back slowly)
T: Jeff Backus, Gosder Cherilus
G: Rob Sims, Stephen Peterman
C: Dominic Raiola

Defense:

DE: Kyle Vanden Bosch, Jason Hunter (I doubt it makes a difference who starts, as there will be a rotation in place)
DT: Ndamukong Suh, Corey Williams (Same as DE, the tackles will rotate)
MLB: DeAndre Levy
OLB: Julian Peterson, Landon Johnson (Johnson won a coin flip over Zack Follett, though the actual starter may not be on the roster yet)
CB: Chris Houston, Amari Spievey (Spievey makes a big impression in camp, and gets the starting nod)
S: Louis Delmas, Ko Simpson (Simpson is the most likely candidate to start out of a cast of thousands)

Special teams:

K: Jason Hanson
P: Nick Harris
PR/KR: Tim Toone (Got to have at least one off the wall pick…or is it?)
LS: Don Mulbach

It’s surprising a two win team knows who most of the starters will be before training camp even starts. But save for safety and outside linebacker, barring injury, the lineup is pretty much set in…sand. It’s too early for stone…

Steve:

Wr Calvin Johnson
Wr Nate Burleson
TE Tony Scheffler
TE Brandon Pettigrew
QB Matthew Stafford
TB Jahvid Best
LOT Jeff Backus
OT Gosder Cherilus
LOG Rob Sims
OG Stephen Peterman
C Dom Raiola

K Jason Hanson
P Nick Harris

LDE Jason Hunter
LDT Ndamukong Suh
DT Corey Williams
DE Kyle Vanden Bosch
SLB Julian Peterson
MLB DeAndre Levy
WLB Zach Follett/Keith Bulluck
[Bulluck signed a 1 yr. $2.5 mil contract with NYG after this answer was submitted ~ DF79]
LCB Chris Houston
CB Jonathan Wade
SS Ko Simpson
FS Louis Delmas

NetRat: As for the starting lineup and the complete depth chart… I have an ongoing chart I keep on my site for that, revised often. In fact, after my trip early to mid-August to the Lions training camp I will be putting my finishing touches on my estimated lineup to see how I do compared to what actually happens after the final cut-down day. My best record to date is 5 wrong (on the entire roster). My worst was last year, with 10 wrong (5 of the players weren’t even on the team when I locked it in). The link to my estimated depth chart can found at http://www.theNetRat.com

Zac: QB – Matthew Stafford, RB – Jahvid Best, WR – Calvin Johnson, WR – Nate Burleson, TE – Tony Scheffler, TE – Brandon Pettigrew, LT – Jeff Backus, LG – Rob Sims, C – Dominic Raiola, RG – Stephen Peterman, RT – Gosder Cherilus

Injury situations will have a lot to do with what the starting lineup looks like in week 1. Brandon Pettigrew is reportedly progressing nicely and should slide into a starting spot with the Lions featuring more two TE sets. While Kevin Smith is also healing to everyone’s delight, he may have to settle for being number two in a one-two punch from the backfield. Jahvid Best has the king of game breaking speed that the Lions offense has sorely lacked. Gosder Cherilus will face a challenge from Jon Jansen but he will win the job as long as he shows some improvement between the ears.

DE – Cliff Avril, DT – Ndamukong Suh, DT – Corey Williams, DE – Kyle Vanden Bosch, LB – Julian Peterson, LB – DeAndre Levy, LB – Zack Follett, CB – Chris Houston, CB – Jonathan Wade, S – Louis Delmas, S – C.C. Brown

The second corner and safety spots are the biggest toss-ups. The addition of Dre Bly will add to the level of competition and overall talent pool but I’m not convinced he will win a starting spot on this team. Zack Follett gets a spot for now with a chance to solidify it when the team hits the field. Cliff Avril also has something to prove but don’t be surprised if he gets every opportunity to win a starting job.

Phil: Assuming the formation they’ll use most often:

Quarterback – Matthew Stafford
Running back – Jahvid Best
Wide receiver – Calvin Johnson
Slot receiver – Nate Burleson
Tight end/receiver – Tony Scheffler
Tight end – Brandon Pettigrew
Left tackle – Jeff Backus
Left guard – Rob Sims
Center – Dominic Raiola
Right guard – Stephen Peterman
Right tackle – Gosder Cherilus (unless he has a really awful camp, in
which case I’d say Jon Jansen)

Cornerback – Chris Houston
Cornerback – Jonathan Wade
Safety – Louis Delmas
Safety – Jarrad Page [He is NOT currently on the Lions Roster. Projected Trade. ~ DF79]
Sam – Julian Peterson
Mike – DeAndre Levy
Will – Zack Follett (I don’t know if he’ll hold on, but I’m predicting
he does enough in camp to earn a shot)
Left end – Cliff Avril
Right end – Kyle Vanden Bosch
3-Tackle – Ndamukong Suh
1-Tackle – Corey Williams

Other than the second safety and the weakside linebacker, I didn’t have
to put much thought into this. WOW! When was the last time you could say
that about a Lions roster before training camp even started??? (And yes,
I realize I may be off, but the offense is pretty much a lock, and there
are only about four positions on defense that I could see being off. I
must be in a time warp…)

Blades: Wow Brian, you’re really putting the pressure on here eh??? I like it. Alright, here we go…

OFFENSE:
QB-Drew Stanton (kidding obviously) Stafford
RB-Kevin Smith
WR-Calvin, Nate “the great” Burleson
TE-Brandon Pettigrew, Tony Scheff
OT-Backus, Big Gos
OG-Peterman, Sims
C-  Dom Raiola

DEFENSE:
DE-Vanden Bosch, Avril
DT-Williams, Suh
LB-Levy, Peterson, Follett
DB-Houston, Wade, Delmas, Simpson

I’ll explain a couple of my choices here:
KEVIN SMITH-If he’s healthy, which it looks like he might be, I think he’ll get the start on Opening Day simply because I don’t think Best is an every down back in this league and very rarely do you see rookie RB’s get the start on Opening Day. This isn’t to say Best won’t be the starter by mid season, I just don’t think he’ll start Opening Day.

2 TE SET- This will be the Lions base formation this year and you will probably see it about 50% of the time during games. In my opinion, it is the best way to attack a defense because although it’s used mostly in as a run formation, with Tony and Brandon at TE you have instant mismatches which the Lions can expose. If teams double CJ, that will leave a LB on either TE which is a HUGE advantage for the Lions. If teams bring in a DB to cover the TE’s, the Lions can pound the ball. That’s why I think this will be our starters on Opening Day.

CLIFF AVRIL-This is going to be one the most heated battles during training camp without a doubt. There are three guys gunning for that spot and each of them have a good chance to win it. Jason Hunter was our best pass rusher last year and he flashed some greatness. If he can become more consistent he has a good shot. Jared Devries, who had the inside track on the job last year, will be back to compete for it again. He’s more of a wild card after a year off and I think will be a solid backup. Avril will be given one more shot by the Lions and that’s why I think he’ll win the battle. He’s still young and needs to show improvement otherwise look for Hunter to take the job by week 4 or 5.

KO SIMPSON- No clue why, I just think he’s the best of a bad group competing for the spot. Sure he’s great on run support but teams won’t be running against the Lions. Trust me, you’ll be seeing teams throw probably 70% of the time against us which is unheard of.

DetFan1979: Hmm…it is a bit early, but that has never stopped me before!

QB: Matthew Stafford
RB: Jahvid Best (Kevin Smith will be eased back in as he is a natural 3rd down/breather back to pair with Best)
TE1:Tony Scheffler
TE2:Will Heller (Brandon Pettigrew will be eased back in as well, and full time starting by week 3 or 4. There will still be a heavy rotation at TE to keep them fresh, or depending on game situations)
WR1: Calvin Johnson
WR2: Nate Burleson
LT: Jeff Backus
LG: Rob Simms
C: Dominic Raiola
RG: Stephen Peterman
RT: Gosder Cherilus

LDE: Jared DeVries
RDE: Kyle Vanden Bosch
DT: Ndamukong Suh
DT: Corey Williams
DT3: Sammie Hill (This will be such a heavy rotation, that all three will see significant snaps. Schwartz has always heavily rotated the Dline, even when he had Haynesworth in Tennessee. I don’t forsee this changing now that the Lions have at least 3 capable DT’s)
SLB: Julian Peterson
MLB: DeAndre Levy
WLB: Zack Follett
CB1: Chris Houston
CB2: Jonathan Wade
S1: Louis Delmas
S2: NC as in No Clue. Who ever “wins” this spot will be on a short leash, and likely in heavy rotation until the Lions can upgrade the second safety spot – possibly via the draft – next ifseason.

Thank you once again everyone for reading the Lions Congregation! Have a question you would like to see answered/discussed? Email us at: lionscongregation@yahoo.com

Tags: detroit lions news 2010, Lions Congregation, Ndamukong Suh

Padder Up!

Despite the frequent complaints about player safety, I find it interesting how resistant the players themselves are to changes in safety technology.  Take the Riddell helmets designed to minimize concussions — which have been proven to reduce instances of head trauma from high school on up.  Yet, despite the vast resources of both players and the league very few players actually use the helmets — despite the concerns about head trauma and its impact later in life, and on careers – like that of Casey Fitzsimmons, ended this year.

Worldwide, and average of 8% of competitors at Taekwondo tournaments are injured as per the WTTU.  Most commonly this is leg injuries with bruises leading by a large margin.  Despite this, it is interesting how many seemingly rational adults don’t wear any non-required equipment (shin guards are optional).  For example, I was participating at a tournament with the pink lions earlier this year.  My ring of competitors (Men, age 30 – 39, equal ranks) had 10 participants.  We’re all middle age men with kids in the sport.  We all have normal jobs.  Only two of us were wearing the optional forearm and shin pads.  I asked one of the guys why he wasn’t – and he said “I’m slow enough without that stuff on.”   I lost to the eventual winner in the semi-finals, and won the 3rd place match.  We were the two guys wearing the optional pads. 

Yup.  They sure slowed us down all right. 

Don’t get me wrong — it would be a lot easier to move without any protective gear at all.  Until about 2 seconds into the match when you get hit for the first time.  Same thing applies in Football.  There is a fine line between performance and safety.  No one wants to be out on the field looking like the poor kid from “A Christmas Story” stuck in the starfish position.  But you can’t play the game in shorts and a T-Shirt either. 

I bring this up because the NFL is running a test of some new additional padding in the preseason to see how it works, with the intention of possibly making it part of the required padding.  I’m curious to see if any Lions will be included, and how this all plays out.  Many RB and WR, CB — they don’t wear most of the optional pads to retain speed and full maneuverability.  In a league where the tiniest of fractions can make a difference on a play, I can’t see players adopting this voluntarily no matter how well it works at preventing injuries because of the perceived loss of competitive edge — real or imagined.   The NFL will need to make it mandatory for it to work. 

Considering all the Lions players that have been lost to injury — leading the league in IR size for at least 4 different seasons in the last 12 years alone — anything to help with safety that reduces injury without tilting the competitive balance would be welcomed by fans.  And should be welcomed by players.

Alive, but very badly burned…

In Austin Powers, one of Dr. Evil’s henchmen is dropped from his chair into a firey pit below at the press of a button, only to have him weakly call out from below.  “I’m alive, but very badly burned”   Dr. Evil, of course, sent a henchman in to finish him off.  We hear a door…a gunshot…and…”OW! you shot me!  You shot me in my arm!” 

As you may have noticed, I was on vacation last week from the blog.  The DetFan1979 clan also went to visit relatives in Interlochen.  While we were there, we of course had to visit some surrounding areas with the Little Pink Lions.  Unfortunately, I didn’t reapply my sunscreen enough and ended up a big pink lion myself — more like a big scorched lion.  Alive, but very badly burned.  Just don’t shoot me in the arm. 

However, this also got me thinking about a commercial I saw a year or so back.  A normal guy is sitting on an exam type bench with workout clothes on, and a football player sits down next ot him with his fingers at a right angle.  He goes “hey doc, you got this”  The doc comes over and snaps them into place.  The player flexes his fingers and goes “thanks” – no change of expression.  No big deal.  The “normal” guy passes out and falls off the bench.  Can’t remember what it was for (bad advertisement huh?)

So what is the point of old movie quotes and silly commercials?  Injuries, of course.  My sunburn knocked me out of really working out at all for a week.  Lost a week to a sprained ankled a couple months ago, and a pulled quad stole 1 more.  This doesn’t include the time to work myself back into the shape I was, and taking it along at the right pace so as not to re-injure myself – or injure something else.  I tweaked one ankle slightly trying to overdo coming back from the sprain in the other.  Finally, once you are "healed" and back, it comes down to trust.  Trusting your newly healed body part will hold up when you go all out.  The mental block is one of the hardest to overcome – and can cause you either to favor the prior injury spot, or hold back.  Favoring can often lead to other injuries becasue you are misusing your body.

Respect your body, and it will respect you.  For the most part.

Brandon Pettigrew will be 100% physically healed by camp, as will Kevin Smith (theoretically according to reports, but that is a whole other issue) — but they will only have limited reps, and neither will likely start the season as starters.  At best, it will likely be at least halfway through the 2010 season before either is back to where they were before the injury.  If not longer.  Caution is the better part of valor.

Yet caution is something most, if not all, NFL athletes throw to the wind in ways we wouldn’t ever consider.  Minor injuries that would knock us out for a week or more of keeping our feet up don’t even diminish practice time during the season.  Taped up, wrapped up, iced up, braced up, under armoured up, padded up, hopped up (pain killer injection) — they take brutal punishment that would have us in the infirmary after a little less than half an hour day in day out hours at a time.  I’m sure I wouldn’t be able to walk for a week even if I could make it through one game at CB, or WR — much less RB or Oline… The wear and tear and brutal punishment are what they do, and they train..but the pain is still there.  Hopefully fans keep this in mind next time a player is inactive, or goes on IR.  Imagine how they feel if it’s bad enough to keep them off the field? 

As we get into training camp opening in a couple of weeks, guys will miss practice for tweaked hamstrings, light ankle sprains, bruises, and hopefully nothing more serious than that.  Keep in perspective that coaches will be cautionary with key players — so a Calvin Johnson missing reps at camp is likely a less severe injury than a Tim Toone missing reps.  One is a commodity to keep healthy — the other is a bubble guy fighting for a chance to make the roster.  Different players, different values.  Since injury reports aren’t mandatory during the ifseason, you can bet the house that coaches and front offices will NEVER be 100% in the open about any injuries that may or may not occur.  The Media/Fans are only allowed to see certain parts of practice, and certain drills, etc.  None of us really know what’s going on as far as the complete picture.

Once the season comes around, the priorities switch up — a Calvin Johnson being out means more than a Tim Toone or a Derrick Williams.  If those guys are injured, another guy at the bottom of the roster will be active game day — but the big guns will play through.  It is an interesting reversal that bubble guys are expected to play through injury the whole time — but especially in camp to earn a roster spot while the key players are kept healthy through camp, but expected to put it all on the line and be out on the field beyond the capabilities of normal human endurance come Sunday’s that count. 

All part of a week’s work for them.  So fully healthy or alive but very badly burned and shot in the arm Calvin Johnson, Matthew Stafford, Louis Delmas and others will be out there giving it their all on Sunday this season for the team and the fans.  For record, while I admire gutsy toughness I prefer healthy.  It wins more games in the long run.

Lions Congregation: Ford Field Memories

While there are many memories bandied about of great times and great games in the Silverdome, seldom do you hear a tale start with “I was at Ford Field when…”  Today, the panel takes their own trips down memory lane at Ford Field… We would also like to welcome newest member Zac, new lead blogger over at The Sidelion Report. Have a question or topic you would like to see discussed by the panel? Email lionscongregation@yahoo.com  

Al of The Wayne Fontes Experience
Phil of Mlive.com
Zac of The Sidelion Report
Ty of The Lions in Winter
Blades Boyd formerly of the Church of Schwartz
Joshua aka DetFan1979 of Roar of the Lions

Tom D. : It seems like Ford Field is such a great stadium, that if the Lions started winning fans could really make that place rock and give the team some true home field advantage. What are your favorite Ford Field memories??

Al:  Don’t have a one.

OK, maybe the comeback against the Browns, with Matt Stafford showing he has balls bigger than Joey Blue Skies’ piano. But remember, it was game between a pair of 1-8 teams, with a stadium that was maybe half full…if you counted the teams on the field and Roary, the Lions’ mascot. I had to watch the game on a pirated web feed, as it was blacked out in Detroit. As great and memorable a game it was, no one was there to see it! So Ford Field has yet to generate the sort of memories the Silverdome and Tigers Stadium did for generations of Lions fans.

I have all kinds of mad love for the Silverdome, which was a GREAT place to watch a football game. The Silverdome had a Mad Max Thunderdome feel to the place. It was rowdy, smelled of beer and smoke, and the Lions usually played well. I’ve never been in a louder facility than a sold-out Silverdome during a Lions victory. NEVER.

Ford Field is a far more civilized place, you could even call it genteel. Which is mostly due to the fact the place has been 3/4 empty the past few seasons. The Lions need to win at home more than once in a blue moon before I can truly begin to think fondly of what really is a gem of a stadium…stuck with a cubic zirconia of a team.

Give it time, Tom. The Schwartz may finally generate those Ford Field memories we all want.

Phil:  Absolutely true on the home field advantage. We heard how loud the Silverdome would get when Barry was running wild. Lions fans are DYING for something to cheer about.

Unfortunately, favorite Ford Field moments are scarce, thanks to an NFL-record stretch of futility. But that said, there’s no question last season’s comeback win against Cleveland takes the top spot. It’s simply no competition, even considering the fact that it was a meeting of two 1-8 teams. The way Detroit fell behind so much, so early. The fact that their hope for the future, No. 1 pick Matthew Stafford drove them down the field with time winding down…got absolutely crushed, then threw the game-tying touchdown? Can’t beat it. Then you throw in the fact that he was wearing a microphone for NFL Networks, and it’s gold,
Jerry…gold!

Zac: I believe your thoughts about a full Ford Field are right on, Tom. During a Lions game last year I took a moment to look around and ponder a potential Big Ten championship game at Ford Field and got goosebumps imagining the atmosphere a couple college marching bands and conference title hopes could bring.

I have been to my fair share of Lions games since Ford Field opened but the truth is that none of them have been all that memorable. I always (ok, almost always) have a good time but witnessing Daunte Culpepper’s first game as a Lion isn’t anything to brag about.

Fortunately, the question leaves me some wiggle room. My favorite Ford Field memory is the 2005 MHSAA Division 1 Championship game between Canton and Rockford. As a 2002 graduate of Canton High School it was a proud moment for me to see my alma mater reach their first ever state final. On top of that, my brother-in-law was a member of that team to give the experience some extra personal appeal. Watching the state championship games on TV had long been a family tradition each Thanksgiving weekend but the chance to see my school in that game in person was very cool, even though Rockford ended up beating Canton.

Ty: Well, of course, there’s the most recent event, the Ford Field draft party. Besides being a giant celebration of Ndamukong Suh, I got to attempt a field goal, go into the locker rooms, etc. I chronicled it all here in great detail: http://www.thelionsinwinter.com/2010/04/suh-at-number-two-jahvid-best-and-all.html .

I tried to think of an in-game memory, and unfortunately I had to go back to the 2003 pre-season game against the Steelers. Sitting a couple yards deep into the end zone, just few rows up, my buddy and I witnessed the Lions beat the Steelers, 26-13. The best part was a beautiful 13-yard touchdown pass from Joey Harrington to Scotty Anderson, a corner fade that was perfectly executed by both players.

The best part was that it happened just feet from where we were sitting! Scotty hauled it in, in bounds, and stumbled toward the wall. I’d brought a ball and Sharpie, so I ran to the rail and yelled for Scotty to sign it as part of the celebration, Terrell Owens style. He didn’t–I couldn’t even hear myself yelling over the rest of the crowd–but seeing a Lions TD reception at that range that something I’ll never forget.”

After the game, my buddy and I went out the main exit, and suddenly he elbowed me in the ribs. “That’s Charlie Batch.”

What?

“That. Right there. That guy. It’s Charlie Batch.”

Sure enough, standing on the Brush street curb, cell phone in hand, rolly luggage behind him, just waiting for his ride, was the recent Lion/new Steeler. I died a thousand tiny deaths as I re-lived my morning decision to not wear my home Batch #10 replica (some of the decals were peeling). Since nobody else seemed to recognize the man who’d been the hope of the franchise just a year before, we approached him. He was the epitome of class and cool.

I came away filled with optimism about the Lions’ new direction, but depressed anew that Batch hadn’t become the player we all thought he would. I couldn’t have guessed that Scotty Anderson would never catch another touchdown in Ford Field. I certainly wouldn’t have guessed that Harrington would go through three more teams and be out of football by now–while Charlie Batch is still a Steeler.

Blades: I’m glad you asked because I’ve been to over 25 Lions games in the life and have been to over 400 sporting events and this is by far, one of the best things I’ve ever seen.

The date was December 28, 2003 and the Lions were playing the powerhouse St. Louis Rams. This was when the Rams were the best team in the NFL and it was the last game of season. They were 12-3 at the time and needed to win to clinch the division and the Lions were, well, the Lions. It was supposed to be a blow out for the Rams and it was looking that way until the third quarter when I saw something I’ll never forget. Otis Smith (ya, that’s right, I said Otis Smith) who was a journeyman corner, came in on a 3rd and 7 and laid the biggest hit I’ve ever seen in a football game. He came in on Bulger’s back side and literally destroyed him. Like I said, I’ve seen a lot of hits but nothing comes close to this. The ball went flying in the air and the Lions recovered and never looked back.

Ford Field was absolutely electric and I’ve never heard the place so loud in my life. (this includes the Browns game from this past year) People were standing from the second quarter on and not a single person left. The crowd was defeaning. Let me add the Lions were down 20-10 and scored 20 consecutive points and shocked the Rams. Bulger was knocked out of the game and the Rams lost in the first round of the playoffs. It was, in one word, awsome!!!!! Az Hakim, Bill “the thrill” Schroeder and my boy Casey Fitz scored the TD’s and if anyone else was at that game, I promise you it would have to be their favorite memory of Ford Field as well.

(I’d like to add I’ve been to the NCAA Finals, Final Four, concerts and Lions game at Ford Field and this is still my favourite memory) I’ve added a link to the boxscore of the game as well and if anyone can find that highlight, it’s worth it.

 http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=231228008

Thanks for the question!!!

DetFan1979: For me it would have to be last year’s game against Arizona. Despite the fact that the Lions lost, there were some definite thrills to that game, and definite hints of potential. To begin with, it seemed as though the game was going to be a typical blowout as the Lions fell behind and didn’t have Stafford or Pettigrew on the field (both were on IR already). While it was exciting to see the Cardinals offense led by Kurt Warner to Larry Fitzgerald (including one heck of a one handed sideline TD catch) score, it was sad how empty Ford Field felt.  Then the tide started to turn with the huge INT TD return by Delmas and Stanton coming into the game and Mo Morris breaking a long TD run. The whole stadium was going nuts, and the fans were on their feet, just roaring. Despite being less than half full, the place was developing a bit of a roar.

This was even more memorable as it was my brother’s first Pro-game, and our first game together. He is a WMU and MSU alum (BA, and Doctoral,  respectively) so it was especially thrilling for him to see Stanton come in, and see Delmas take one to the house. He isn’t usually a sports nut like me, and even he was on his feet cheering!

Despite the loss, the experience gave real hints at what passionate fans the Lions have — fill that house and put a competitive team on the field, and the home-town ROAR of the Silverdome years will be back and badder than ever. Schwartz and Mayhew have the team headed in the right direction to create more memories — hopefully memories of comeback wins, instead of comeback almost-wins.

Thank you once again everyone for stopping by the Lions Congregation!! Just 5 weeks to the first preseason games and 3 weeks to camp!! Remember, if you have a topic you’d like to see the panel take up, email lionscongregation@yahoo.com

WR Battle: Rookie Time!

And we are down to the rookies.  After looking at the established NFL players on the Lions’ roster, we are now down to the three rookies: Tim Toone, Contrevious Parks, and Michael Moore.   While the Lions only drafted one WR, they brought in two more as UDFA.

There is really, as you can see from his Detroit Lions bio (empty) almost no information out there on Parks.  Pride of Detroit also attempted to do a scouting report, but also came up with very little.  He is an unknown to us fans for the most part – although many UDFA are.   Best guess is that he is competing for the return role and slot WR.  This puts him competing to make the practice squad in my mind, as I see him having pretty much zero shot to make the 53 man roster unless he has an outstanding camp – assuming he makes it that far.  There is obviously something Mayhew and his scouts see in the kid, so we will have to just wait and see if that shows up, or it was just another piece of Spaghetti thrown against the wall to see if it sticks.

Michael Moore is also in similar situation to Parks as far as the roster is concerned.  I didn’t find much info on his return abilities, but he seems a practice squad candidate at best. He was one of Stafford’s targets at Georgia, so that can’t be underestimated as far as familiarity with Stafford.  He saw a huge drop in his stat lines once Stafford left, so this is probably his best shot — including preseason, if he can get there, of making an NFL roster.  Pride of Detroit did a nice work up on him as well.

Just like with Zack Follett last season, this is the guy my gut says has a chance to really make a mark.  He might start out on the practice squad, but I get the feeling that he will make the final 53 and take that last spot.  He was a record setting WR in his two years at Weber State.  Also, his two year charity stint shows his overall maturity level and responsible nature, despite his brash, outgoing personality.  Toone strikes me as the kind of slightly off the wall guy that it takes to play the almost reckless position of returner at the NFL level.  I can see him either beating out Williams et al for the return duties in camp.  Barring that, I think he is a solid practice squad candidate at least.  Although, should he be on the practice squad I could see another team poaching him IF he shows some potential return skills in the preseason.

IF Toone does make the roster and contribute, that would be two years in a row Mayhew has found value in the 7th.  That speaks a lot to how the talent scouting process has changed, and improved, with the Lions.

Wrapping up this series, right now my pre-camp guess is the Lions keep 5 WR: C. Johnson, N. Burleson, B. Johnson, D. Williams, and T. Toone.   There is still a lot of IFseason to go though, so that is not locked in stone.

Tags: Contrevious Parks, Derrick Williams, Michael Moore, Tim Toone

WR Battle: Double Bubble

There are two remaining veteran WR on the roster left to look at before checking out what the rookies could bring to the table:  Brian Clark and Eric Fowler.

Brian Clark has returned some kicks (29 for 636 yds and a 21.9 avg) and some otherwise very pedestrian stats in his 5 years in the league.  Be it practice squad, or special teams player he has managed to hang on to his NFL dreams.  However, he is fast reaching the point where teams – including the Lions – are more apt to keep a younger special teamer/returner/receiver with more upside potential then they are to keep Mr. Clark.  With a crowded WR battle, he will need to somehow find a way do differentiate himself from the crowd, or he will find himself once again bouncing around.  His best season was with Tampa Bay last year where he had 6 catches for 65 yards as a receiver.  IF he is going to make this squad it will be as a returner.  That means he needs to at least beat out Tim Toone and Derrick Williams, among others to have a shot.  His chances of being on the final roster are pretty slim and, like Marko Mitchell, he will be lucky to make it to camp without being cut when they sign a remaining draft pick.

Eric Fowler has been bouncing back and forth between team and practice squad for two years.  I’m sure the team is happy he helped introduce them to heavy cardio in the form of boxing training, but it will take more than that for him to make the team.  He has yet to log a regular season catch and is fast running out of opportunities.   You can only be on the practice squad so long and his time is coming up.  At this point, he just plain hasn’t shown anything on the field either in pre-season, or apparently in practice, to justify to the coaches getting him on the field.  This has to be even more disconcerting when you think of the injury issues they had at WR last season.  Despite being a hometown guy, once the Practice Squad time is done, at this point so is Mr. Fowler.

Both Fowler and Clark have the veterans in front of them to beat out, and the rookies breathing down their necks.  Unfortunately for them, I don’t think they are winning both battles.

WR Battle: Derrick Williams

We’ve already taken a look at Calvin Johnson, Nate Burleson, Bryant Johnson and Dennis Northcutt.  Today, the focus is on 2nd year player Derrick Williams.

Selected in the third round in 2009, he is at this point staring the word “bust” squarely in the face.  Whether unfairly or not, he was drafted that high for his return ability.  His skills as a developmental WR were supposed to be a bonus.  At this point, he has showed little/nothing in either the punt return or kick return game.  Essentially, at this point he either needs to progress enough in his WR skills to land a spot on the roster, find where he lost his return skills, or preferably both.

The Lions don’t have total confidence in him, as they brought in a couple of other players with return ability.  The biggest knock on Williams is that return ability is supposed to be an area where a rookie can contribute immediately.  He didn’t.  That being said, he did bring more to the WR position than was expected – showing he has the possibility to develop into a solid #3 WR – possibly more.  The key word there is “develop” – he showed some skills, but isn’t there yet by far.  WR typcially are expected to take 2 or 3 years to settle in to the NFL, so he is right on a normal pace as long as he continues to improve.

Finding a consistent #3 WR in the third wouldn’t be all bad — but it would be better if that player returned kicks and punts, which is what the Lions were looking for in Williams.  Being a third rounder, and still having that dreaded “p” word (potential) I feel as though he is going to get one of the roster spots left.

For those keeping count, if Bryant Johnson is given another year that fills four of a possible 5 spots at WR — leaving quite a few players vying either for the last spot, or to overtake B. Johnson or D. Williams and steal their spot.

Tags: Derrick Williams, Detroit Lions, Detroit Lions News

Lions Congregation: Fight Club

Welcome back to the Lions Congregation!  As usual, the panel addresses your questions and thoughts on the Lions.  Have something you would like to see the Lions Congregation discuss?  Email us at: lionscongregation@yahoo.com

This week’s panel:

Al of the Wayne Fontes Experience
Steve of Detroit Lions Web Log
NetRat of The Net Rat Detroit Lions Site
Phil of MLive.com
Blades Boyd formerly of the Church of Schwartz
Joshua aka DetFan1979 of Roar of the Lions

From Marko T.: What do you think of the recent fights at OTAs and Minicamp? What does that say about the team and its’ direction? I’m not sure if I should be happy or not.

Al: This is what I said about the whole sad situation the day after it went down:

“Is there anything sillier than helmet and shoulder pad wearing football players fighting? (Other than Marty Mornhinweg riding off on a Harley after stopping practice, nothing.) Schwartz didn’t see the humor. To make his point about the lack of discipline even sharper, and to get across his extreme displeasure, Schwartz going to fine every and any one involved in the practice skirmishes.”

After reflecting a little more on the silliness of large, sweaty, padded men wrestling in sweltering heat, there’s only one thing I like about it. How Schwartz handled the whole affair. He dealt out fines to anyone and everyone involved, and all but said if it happens again, the punishment will be more severe than having to write a large check.

It’ll likely mean their jobs.

We’ve heard it all before. We all remember Bobby Ross’ weekly claim he’s be handing “bus tickets out of town.” But in Schwartz’s case, I tend to believe his threats. He has the full backing of the front office, and’ it’s not as if the Lions have been winning big with the punch throwers. So Schwartz really doesn’t have anything to lose…other than the respect of the players if he doesn’t follow up on his threats. Ross never handed out those bus tickets, and the players never took him seriously.

I don’t think that will be a problem with Jim Schwartz.

Steve: I don’t regard the fights that have occurred during the OTA’s as meaning anything beyond the obvious. In other words, a bunch of spirited, competitive young men are fighting for their livelihoods, which often gets heated in the process.

Given that the Lions have had a quiet off-season since the April draft, I believe the fact the fights are even being reported is largely because there is little else to report, and people have become cautiously optimistic about the direction of the Lions organization.

Other than the unfortunate off-the-field incident by team exec Tom Lewand and the rumors swirling about a potential acquisition of the Redskins embattled, underachieving DT Albert Haynesworth, this is the most stable the Lions have appeared in a very long time. Of course, a 2-14 or 3-13 performance would change that perception rapidly.

NetRat: Fights? I have no issue with fights that break out in OTA’s or training camp. I would be more worried if there were none. You have over 80 guys trying to make a 53 man team. The game is part talent, part emotion, and part impossible. While the coaching staff doesn’t want fights to interrupt their training schedule, they do understand that they happen. They know why they happen, they know it will happen, and they also know when things get out of control by players who need to learn control (to avoid penalties in a game if nothing else). To me, it’s a non-issue. Unless a player repeatedly does stupid penalties in game situations… then it’s a huge issue.

Phil: I wouldn’t read too much into any of the fights. There was a little dust-up at an OTA about a month ago, and then it was followed by a couple of donnybrooks at the recent minicamp. “Brawl” is too excessive a word, despite what you probably heard or read in the media. I was there. It wasn’t a brawl, and here’s my explanation: A brawl is when fists are thrown by a bunch of individuals in the same general fight. That didn’t happen. And anyone who says that happened is lying because the media is not within good viewing distance to see exactly what went on.

At the time, media members were within about a 20-yard area on the sideline opposite of where the scuffle took place – in other words, about 40-50 yards away. At ground level. Because the team is running plays, it’s not easy to tell when a fight breaks out until guys are scrambling. So that’s what happened the first time. The second time involved a lot more players, but they weren’t necessarily part of the fight – remember, there are plenty of guys trying to pull teammates away from each other or simply running to ground zero. The second fight took a little longer to break up and essentially ended that part of practice.

As Schwartz explained afterwards, though, there are a lot of guys fighting for their jobs; there are guys fighting for pride. This was the final day of mandatory minicamp, and groups of guys like to have the edge on the opposing unit over the summer. It’s not surprising that big, athletic men who compete in a violent sport get into a scrap from time to time. (Hell, wait until the dog days of August – two-a-days under scorching sun rays and 95 percent humidity!) These same guys pushing, shoving and wrestling on the ground will be having lunch or a beer together later on. Like I said, the second fight was a little more involved, but there’s no way I’d classify it as a brawl. I saw worse going to high school in Flint than what I saw on the Lions practice field last week.

All of that having been said, it’s not something for Schwartz to let go. There have to be consequences, and the head coach will dole out the punishment. All-in-all, I’d be quite indifferent toward the whole thing. I wouldn’t worry about the players being undisciplined or too easily fired up. Let’s see how things go in training camp before making it into an issue.

As an aside, one question I’ve gotten a lot after the recent “brawl” is about why there were no pictures or video of the fight. Here’s the low-down: Team rules prohibit the media from taking pictures or shooting video of anything other than individual drills. For those who haven’t had the chance to view a Lions practice, usually it goes like this: stretching/warm-up for about 20 minutes, individual drills for 20-40 minutes, various team drills (7-on-7, situational, etc.) for an hour+, special teams drills for 20-30 minutes. So other than 20-40 minutes, cameras must be put away or turned off.

Tony: Funny you should ask Marko because I’ve been thinking the same thing. As a result, I’ve made a list on the positives and negatives so I will list them and let you know what I think.

Positives

1. It shows intensity. It shows people actually care and they are not willing to give an inch. If you beat me, you’re going to pay for it and I love this attitude.

2. It builds chemistry. Not as a team, but as an offensive and defensive unit. We all know football is the “ultimate team sport” but the more you watch the game, it’s more like four teams competing against each other. (Offense vs. Defence for both teams)Showing that you are willing to go to battle with the guys on your side of the ball helps create a chemistry and that’s what you need to success.

Negatives

1. It doesn’t build a TEAM chemistry. In fact, it could be argued it pushes team mates apart because it can pin people against each other. For example, the offense could go out and put up 30 points but the defence could allow 35 and the attitude of the offense could be, “hey, I did my part so I don’t care what the defence does.” In fact, this is the attitude we’ve seen in previous seasons.

2. It takes away from practice time. Lord knows the Lions need all the practice time they can get and by the time the Lions fight, it gets broken up, they get yelled at and then get back to work, it probably eats up ten minutes. Sure ten minutes doesn’t sound like a lot but when you’ve won two games in the last two years, it is a lot!!!!

RESULT:
I think it’s a positive. For the simple reason it shows people care. Passion is the one thing the Lions have lacked over the last decade and passion is what you need to be successful in the NFL. So overall, I’m happy they are showing intensity and passion.

DetFan1979: I am not as concerned about the “fights” this year as I was under Marinelli.  First off, the players lost OTA days under Marinelli due to a player complaint.  This season, they lost a day because the players were practicing too intensely when the NFLPA looked over the tape.

Let’s repeat that, shall we?  The Lions lost 2 days of practice for practicing too intensely.

Since when can you really say that about the Lions?  I just get the vibe that the level at which the Lions are praciting (and hopefully the level at which they play) has cranked up a couple of notches this ifseason as the vets are finally seeing some stability, and the bubble guys are having a harder time competing for spots as the roster has been infused with more talent.

Now that the Lions have more quality starting grade players as starters, this has pushed the competition in spots for the bubble guys to fighting for backup spots — backup spots that are not as numerous as they have been in recent seasons.  Also, those fighting for the starting positions in flux know that the talent level has kicked up (are you reading this Dennis Northcutt?)  and that ever player really counts.

That the players have this much passion and talent is a refreshing break from the Millen years.  My hope is that this ferocity carries over into the season, tempered with discipline.  Jim Schwartz made the right move by  fining players involved and making sure it was well established that controlled passion is great – but wild frenzies are not.  Discipline is still key, and I think he managed to continue establishing that while not quashing the competitive fire.

This has been a very positive and stable ifseason — the most stable I have seen in some many years.  As a writer, that makes it hard at times because the turmoil provided for compelling stories.  However, as a fan I’m thrilled at the direction the team is going in, and think that this is just one more sign of the way the Lions trenches (Oline and Dline) will be playing this season: Knock ‘em down and out.

Thanks for reading the Lions Congregation!  Do you have a question you would like to see answered, or a topic discussed?  Email the lionscongregation@yahoo.com !!  Have a safe and happy 4th of July Weekend!

Tom Lewand: How Much is Enough?

While title of this article has many interpretations, I think all of them pretty much apply.  How much coverage of the event is enough?  How much public humiliation is enough?  How much punishment is enough?  How much alcohol is enough?

Despite the tremendous ifseason thus far, nothing to date (including the draft) has exploded my inbox like Mr. Lewand’s arrest on charges of DUI last Friday.  I’ve had several calling for his job either via firing or him stepping down.  I’ve had others try to justify his actions, and seem as though nothing is wrong with what he did.  The most clear comment/question fell somewhere in the middle, and I will address that today — along with my thoughts on both ends of the spectrum. 

From Scott:I don’t want to downplay the severity of his actions, many of us have children, and don’t have a lot of sympathy for Drunk Driving especially w/ BAL .21. However people make mistakes everyday and he is human. I personally don’t see him getting much of a punishment, because if I remember right Joe Cullen was disciplined by the team not the league, for his drive thru issue. Anyways to the heart of my question. Being as this is the most important period of time for Tom’s role on the team, do you feel this may at all effect his ability to get the rookies signed on time.
To clarify-

1-How do you suspend an Exec. Or due they just fine him?
2-if they can suspend him who signs the Rookies?

I like Scott’s initial point that people make mistakes every day, and he is human.  While Mr. Lewand makes a tidy sum as team president, lets not get him confused with the players he is signing to multi-million dollar bonuses.  When it comes to players in the top compensation tiers, there is  no reason not to have a personal driver, personal bar, or just plain pay someone to drive you about.  Period.  From the sounds of things, Mr. Lewand has a problem, is aware of it, and is seeking treatment.  Keep in mind, a majority of alcoholics in recovery have relapses as they move down the path to sobriety.  This is true even amongst those trying their hardest, and doing their best to avoid bad situations.

Let’s also keep some perspective – This is a first offense for Mr. Lewand, and ask yourself:  How many people are charged with drunken driving (DI/OWI/et al.) each year in Michigan alone (35,534 in 2008)– and how many of those have to deal with a police dash cam being posted all over the internetand the world while they are trying to dealwith what is, in the best of cases, a difficult time.  Should every person who gets one DUI lose their job immediately?  What other offenses would cause immediate termination, whether or not related to their business?  A first time offense is like it or not a misdemeanor offense in Michigan.  How about driving 20mph over the speed limit?  Driving too fast for conditions?  Causing an at-fault accident?  All are dangerous and have potential to cause severe harm.  What about after he is fired?  What then?  Unemployment forever?  Jail forever?  What does he do then other than try to geta different job.  Second offense?  That shows a habitual lack of judgement versus a one time slip up, and would in my mind justify termination as it identifies a trend, versus an aberration.

On the flip side of this, according to NHSTA statistics there were 282 alchohol related traffic deaths (.08 or higher Blood Alcohol Content) in 2008.  What is especially disturbing is that at 0.21, Mr. Lewand was in the “Hard Core” range of intoxication ( 0.15 or greater) — which accounts for 70% of the alcohol related traffic deaths.  He didn’t just have “one too many” unless by “one” you mean “one fifth of hard liquor”.  Statistically speaking, there was a very good  (bad?) chance that Mr. Lewand driving at the level of impairment he was could cause a fatal accident.  I’m not comfortable with that at all personally — it shows me that while it may be his first time getting caught, this likely isn’t the first time it has happened.  How is a lack of discipline and self control there effecting him elsewhere in his life?  Is it impacting his job performance?

So what now?  Mr. Goddell has indicated earlier this year (and reiterated again) that ALL NFL players and executives – himself included – are subject to the personal conduct policy of the NFL.  I foresee the NFL slapping Mr. Lewand with a hefty fine — and the Lions could possibly give him some administrative leave.  Will this be before or after the draft picks sign?  That I am not sure of.  My guess will be they do a thorough investigation before they levy any penalties, which will likely carry them into the start of camp. 

Don’t forget that Mr. Mayhew oversees player acquisition and that there are other front office members who are more than qualified to finish negotiations should the Lions or the NFL act sooner.  James Harris (Senior Personnel Exec) is still in the fold, Sheldon White (VP of Pro Personnel) is also available to assist Mayhew.  There are also other members of the staff who put together most of these documents.  The Lions signed 3rd round CB Amari Spievey today - their 3rd draft pick to sign since mini-camp ended, despite Mr. Lewand’s personal issues.  Unnamed sources have indicated that Mr. Mayhew and either Mr. White or Mr. Harris are the ones who completed the signings, although that is not confirmed.   

I’m not sure how the NFL would go about suspending an executive, although unpaid administrative leave either from the team, the league, or both would be the logical answer.  As to when — as with any suspension in the NFL that is usually hard to predict.  I also foresee a fine, as I said, for Mr. Lewand.  I expect at this point the Lions will stand behind him within reason - as they should – because of all the good he has done for the organization.  They will discipline him while keeping him working and helping him through it.  BUT – IF anything even remotely like this happens again, or he doesn’t keep up with rehabbing/getting past this — whatever the need may be — he should be let go.  Immediately.  No apologies.   This approach sends both a message of loyalty AND that misbehavior and poor representation of the organization will not be tolerated.  — “Once, shame on you — Twice you’re outta here.”   Unlike Baseball, in most of the business world you are lucky to get one strike and stay around.  The second one sends you packing.  The Lions should take a public stand on this and make it crystal clear so that the players, the fans, the NFL, and the rest of the staff know exactly how the Lions will handle this in the future. 

This front office – especially Mr. Mayhew – have done such a great job the past year and half that it is a shame for something like this to mar the progress that was made.  It will be interesting to see how this all plays out.