Out of all of the Lions training camp content you’ve consumed thus far, what has surprised you the most?
Detroit Lions football is back, and we’ve now reached Week 2 of training camp. Players have begun practicing in pads, and as Dan Campbell said prior to Monday’s practice, “This is where guys begin to separate themselves.” Let’s reflect on what’s happened so far in camp over the first four practices and discuss some storylines that may have come as a bit of a surprise.
Today’s Question of the Day is…
What has been the biggest surprise from Detroit Lions training camp so far?
Obviously it’s still very early in camp, but the ascension of Levi Onwuzurike has been the biggest surprise for me. Prior to Monday’s practice, players were only wearing shells, so there wasn’t a ton you can gather from the offensive and defensive line play, but I do think it was very notable that Onwuzurike was getting a lot of looks on the edge. On Monday, it was Davenport and Onwuzurike switching back and forth with the starters, while Josh Paschal was repping with the reserves.
If Onwuzurike can stack some good days during padded practices while embracing this new-found role on the defensive line, then I think his chances of not only making the roster, but becoming an important role player on defense are significantly higher than I anticipated.
Another thing that comes to mind is how the wide receiver group is currently shaking out. Beyond the top guys like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and Kalif Raymond, no one has really done much to separate themselves from the rest of the pack just yet. Donovan Peoples-Jones and Antoine Green have been spending the most time with the starters since the spring, but it was Daurice Fountain that received praise from his head coach on Monday morning .
Your turn. What’s been the biggest surprise for you so far during training camp? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.