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

Aug 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Ryan Broyles (84) makes a catch and looks to get around Cleveland Browns cornerback Pierre Desir (26) during the second quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

3. Ryan Broyles, WR

One of the more pleasant surprises following the preseason, week one victory was the play of Detroit Lions third-year wideout, Ryan Broyles.

“Broyles did a nice job in the first half with some good catches and not only that – I think it was only three for 27 yards, but I think the run after the catch was key, converting some first downs,” – Lions head coach, Jim Caldwell

After suffering season ending injuries in both of his first two season’s in the NFL, there is a chance that there is no one more ready to have a good training camp and be a productive member of this football team moving forward than Broyles.

The last time Broyles was on the Ford Field turf in a game situation he was diving away from a punt and suffering a torn Achilles tendon on a non-contact play.

Broyles battled back from injury, once again, and has been having a good camp thus far. He parlayed that into a nice preseason debut with three catches and 27 yards, two of those for a first down. Even more impressive was his ability to run after the catch vs. catching the ball and just getting out-of-bounds. That extra effort goes a long way with cuts looming.

"“Yeah, I think everyone wants a feel-good story,” Broyles said. “You know what I mean? I don’t take that into consideration. I know I want to be the player I used to be and I feel like I’m well on my way. So it’s just a blessing to be out there and run around feeling pain-free.”"

If he’s stays healthy and keeps catching first down passes, he’s very much in the mix for a roster spot.