Detroit Lions roster preview: Safeties
By Matt Bosko
The back-end of the Detroit Lions secondary was a strength for the team in 2017. Will any new faces shape this position group?
The Detroit Lions’ group of safeties turned in a stellar 2017 campaign, and there is little reason to doubt they will repeat that performance this season.The question about this position group is more about how they will be deployed in Patricia’s new defense and not who will be apart of it. Versatility is a key attribute with this new coaching regime, and the Lions have plenty of dynamic players to fill out the back-end of the defense.
LOCKS (6)
Quin, a perennial All-Pro snub, is the anchor of the Lions’ pass defense and one of the league’s best safeties. Entering his tenth season in the NFL, Quin still has plenty left in the tank. His veteran leadership, experience, instincts, and playmaking ability are the reasons the Lions continue to count on him. Time and again, when the Lions make a big play on defense, Quin is usually involved.
Wilson’s 2017 season ended prematurely due to a shoulder injury, but it did not deter the Lions from bringing him back into the fold. A former Patriot under Patricia’s tutelage, Wilson can play down in the box or in coverage. He is a valuable asset to this team, and his experience in Patricia’s scheme will elevate his performance.
If versatility is what the Lions need on defense, they need not look further than Quandre Diggs. It was a curious move when the Lions moved Diggs over to safety last season. One of the best slot corners in the game, Diggs made the transition to safety look seamless. His heavy hitting ability and nose for the ball led to a career year, where the Texas product set career highs in tackles (55), sacks (1), passes defended (9) and interceptions (3).
One of the more curious selections of the NFL Draft, the Lions selected Walker with their third-round pick. It was a shock to many, including members of the media, who scrambled to find out who Tracy Walker actually was.
Walker’s exact role is uncertain at this time, but Bob Quinn and Patricia have high hopes. Early expectations are for him to learn the position around veterans like Quin and Wilson. Groomed properly, he may be the heir-apparent to Quin. For now, he is certain to make the roster, and develop a role as the season progresses.
This is a make-or-break year for Killebrew. When Wilson’s season ended, the expectation was that it was Killebrew’s job to lose. As it turned out, he remained a rotational third safety. The upside here is that he displayed the ability to play in a hybrid role, which should make him a perfect fit in the new scheme.
The final roster spot goes to Washington, who played in all 16 games last season. Though he finished the season with 11 tackles, he performed reasonably well for a reserve safety. He also has special teams experience, which boosts his value.
Next: Projecting the Lions' CBs
With only one new face, the Lions bring continuity to the safety position into 2018. Between this slate of safeties and corners, the Lions defensive backfield is loaded with talented and versatile playmakers.