Detroit Lions to host free agent tight end Brent Celek on visit

After the release of Eric Ebron, the Detroit Lions have a sudden need at tight end. They will host former Philadelphia Eagles TE Brent Celek on Thursday.

The Detroit Lions are officially in the post-Ebron era. With the team suddenly thin at the tight end position, they are looking to add some depth by hosting veteran Brent Celek on Thursday.

Celek, 33, is on the heels of a Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia Eagles. His production with the team has dropped off in recent years with the emergence of Zach Ertz and Trey Burton, but has 11 seasons of experience, and is an asset as a blocker.

He is reliable, appearing in all 16 games in every season except 2012, where he missed just one contest. Over his career with the Eagles, Celek caught 398 passes for 4,998 yards and 31 touchdowns.

With the release of Eric Ebron yesterday and the loss of Darren Fells to the Cleveland Browns, the Lions have just two tight ends on the roster: Michael Roberts and Hakeem Valles, both unproven commodities.

Roberts, last year’s fourth-round pick who played behind Ebron and Fells, has a chance to see his role greatly expand in 2018. He was benched for the season finale against the Green Bay Packers last year for a violation of team rules.

Valles, a 2016 undrafted free agent who was signed off the practice squad last year, is also due to see an increased role.

Though the two players have potential, they could use the guidance of an experienced veteran as they continue to learn the intricacies of the position. Celek could be that presence, while also contributing in run blocking and receiving.

Next: Recapping day one of Lions free agency

Bob Quinn and Matt Patricia seem insistent on adding veteran leadership to the team. Prior to hosting Celek, the Lions have already hosted the likes of DeMarco Murray, Frank Gore, and also plan to bring in LeGarrette Blount for a visit this week as well.