Detroit Lions roster preview: Linebackers
By Matt Bosko
The Detroit Lions made some upgrades to their linebacking corps this offseason. Which new faces can we expect to see the field?
The Detroit Lions have some new faces at linebacker in 2018. Tahir Whitehead and Paul Worrilow found new homes with the Raiders and Eagles, respectively, and Nick Bellore has moved to fullback for the Lions.
Injuries decimated the position group last year, and the lack of depth hurt the Lions in every conceivable way. The team struggled to stop the run and keep up in coverage.
Bob Quinn revamped the corps through free agency this past offseason, signing versatile players that should plug right into Patricia’s scheme.
LOCKS (5)
Let’s not forget about this guy. With all the changes to the linebacker position group, Davis remains a tremendous constant.
It was an interesting first season for Davis, who experienced some growing pains as the Lions’ middle linebacker. He missed two games due to a concussion early on, was exposed in coverage at times, and appeared overwhelmed by the responsibility of directing the defense.
That being said, Davis showed tremendous upside throughout the season, and filled the stat sheet with some gaudy numbers. He tallied 96 tackles (65 solo), including two sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble. The Florida State product improved towards the season’s end, and will be the centerpiece of the Matt Patricia’s defense in 2018.
The former Giant is a typical Bob Quinn acquisition. Quinn signed Kennard, a versatile pass-rusher, to a low-risk, high-reward deal. He is a multi-faceted player who will aid in applying pressure to the opposing quarterback, as he notched four sacks in 15 games last season.
Another free agent signing this offseason, Jones comes to the Lions after spending four seasons with the Chicago Bears. Last year was the best of his career, where he notched 90 tackles and two sacks. He appeared in 16 games in every season except 2015, where he missed just one game. Jones also played on special teams for the Bears, and recorded 11 special teams tackles in 2016.
A fourth-round selected in the 2017 draft, Reeves-Maybin displayed versatility and athleticism in his rookie season. He appeared in 14 games, and when injuries mounted, carved a nice role for himself as a rotational player with a high ceiling. He has good instincts and speed, and it will be interesting to see how Patricia uses him in his second season.
The seventh-year veteran makes the roster due to his experience, versatility, and knowledge of Patricia’s complex system. Freeny played for the New England Patriots in 2015, 2016, and part of the 2017 season. Last year was a bit of a journeyman season, as he played for three different teams. Patricia and Quinn obviously value what he brings to the table, and will contribute as a reserve linebacker who can also play on special teams.
ON THE BUBBLE (1)
Longa saw action in 15 games last season, and though he did not see much time on the field as a linebacker, is an asset on special teams. If the Lions can afford the extra spot, Longa stands a chance to make the final cut.
Next: Breaking down the Lions defensive line
The recurring theme with Patricia, regardless of position group, is versatility. The defensive line and linebackers are ripe with these types of players, and will be exciting groups to watch in 2018.