Detroit Lions News: Top 5 Players to Watch vs. Oakland Raiders

Aug 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Eric Ebron (85) makes a catch and is tackled by Cleveland Browns linebacker Christian Kirksey (58) during the second quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

5. Eric Ebron, TE

When the Detroit Lions drafted rookie tight end, Eric Ebron out of the University of North Carolina we knew he was going to be used in multiple different roles in the Motor City.

“I think I’m going to play quarterback one play, we’ll see. Our playbook is open wide with the athletes we have and we’ll go from there.” – Ebron joking with reporters after last weeks victory

Lions new offensive coordinator, Joe Lombardi had a somewhat similar type of athlete at the tight end position during his time as the quarterbacks coach of the New Orleans Saints — Jimmy Graham.

Comparisons between the two pass-catchers were made immediately, and coach Lombardi even said publicly that Ebron “would be used in a Jimmy Graham type role” in Detroit.

Ebron was used in vast majority of roles in last Saturday’s preseason opener, perhaps more than anyone really believed he would be. Ebron was on the field as an in-line tight end, fullback, H-back, slot receiver, wide receiver and was a motion man Saturday night vs. Cleveland.

"“It wasn’t all of it,” Ebron said with a laugh after catching one pass for two yards on four targets. “It’s just the preseason. There are many more (positions) to come."

It will be interesting to see how the Lions continue to used Ebron tonight vs. the Raiders. I have a feeling that he may be all over the field again tonight.