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Detroit Lions Offseason Prediction: Tight Ends

By Erik Schlitt

Dec 21, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Eric Ebron (85) catches a pass over New Orleans Saints middle linebacker Stephone Anthony (50) and strong safety Kenny Vaccaro (32) during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Lions defeated the Saints 35-27. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detroit Lions tight end Eric Ebron (85) catches a pass over New Orleans Saints middle linebacker Stephone Anthony (50) and strong safety Kenny Vaccaro (32) during the second half of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Lions defeated the Saints 35-27. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 18, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Dion Sims (80) celebrates after a touchdown during the second half against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. The Dolphins won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Miami Dolphins tight end Dion Sims (80) celebrates after a touchdown during the second half against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. The Dolphins won 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

Free Agents

In January, Dion Sims was told by Miami Dolphins head coach Adam Gase, that they wanted to bring him back as their number one tight end. Now, just a month later, Miami is actively trying to trade for Julius Thomas, who would presumably occupy that role. With the Dolphins running a lot of three wide receiver sets, it’s fair to wonder if Sims will want to return to a reserve role in Miami.

If he leaves, the former Michigan State Spartan may be interested in returning home to a more prominent role. With Ebron in the fold as a potential slot TE, the Lions have a strong need for a starting blocking tight end. This would fit Sims skill set and preferred opportunity nicely. Spotrac’s Market Value prediction for Sims is a contract averaging: $4.9 million per year.

Martellus Bennett is going to be the top available tight end in free agency. While history says the Patriots don’t usually sign high-profile players in the offseason, they have targeted players whom they feel are at the top of their game. With Gronkowski continuing to have back issues, the Patriots may want to keep him in the fold. If they don’t re-sign him before the free agency period begins, don’t expect New England to get in a bidding war for him. Spotrac estimates a contract averaging: $6 million per year.

Jack Boyle is expected to test the market after coming off a career year in Indianapolis. An excellent blocker, the former undrafted free agent showed last year he’s capable of being an every down player. Statically, Boyle had as productive a year as Martellus Bennett, and at only 27 years of age he should command somewhere is the same contract price range. Spotrac estimates a contract averaging $6.2 million per year.

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