The Detroit Lions officially kicked off their OTAs on Wednesday, giving the coaching staff a chance to evaluate the rookies and newcomers along with the returning veterans. The voluntary offseason practices will last for three days before the team reconvenes for the second and third phases of OTAs.
All eyes will be on the new arrivals in Detroit. While early-round selections and big free agent signings are locks to make the 53-man roster, there are plenty of new Lions who are trying to make a case to be included in the final roster.
Dominic Lovett Can Earn a Roster Spot by Continuing Momentum from Rookie Minicamp
One of those late-round picks who could earn himself a spot in the rotation is Detroit’s seventh-round pick, Dominic Lovett. The 244th-overall pick is facing an uphill battle in the crowded wide receiver room, but has shown early flashes at rookie minicamp to give himself a chance. If he can continue where he left off during OTAs, Lovett could sneak his way into the WR room in Detroit for the season.
The Lions made the surprising decision to have only four receivers on the 53-man roster to begin last season. It's hard to imagine head coach Dan Campbell doing the same this time around. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Tim Patrick are locks to make the roster and begin the season as the starters. Isaac TeSlaa will almost certainly have a role, barring a major surprise.
Kalif Raymond is the early favorite to be the WR5 on the roster, thanks to his return ability on special teams. Yet, not only can Lovett beat Raymond in the competition, but he can also become the sixth WR on the roster as he provides a different element to the offense as a slot receiver.
There will be plenty of competition during OTAs. Once the sessions are opened to the public, we should have a better idea of who is emerging as a standout. If Lovett manages to do that, he could avoid being cut before the season and establish himself on the active roster rather than the practice squad.