Detroit Lions rookie minicamp has begun. What UDFAs can stand out and eventually earn a spot on the final roster?
Rookies reported to Allen Park on Friday for the first day of rookie minicamp. This gave us a first glimpse at what numbers the rookies will be wearing , and we got a taste of how clean the new practice jerseys look on the field. Following the practice, assistant general manager Ray Agnew spoke to the media to give some insights on the Detroit Lions ’ draft class.
But rookie minicamp isn’t just about the Lions’ draft picks. Many undrafted free agents and players earning tryouts are in attendance as well. A few of them will have a real shot of making the final 53-man roster, while others could see themselves on the practice squad in the future.
Today’s Question of the Day is…
What undrafted free agent has the best shot at making the Lions’ roster?
This is a unique year for the Lions where their roster is extremely deep, and I think it’s possible that we might not even see a single UDFA crack the final roster. But there are a few names that I think could really make a push.
If the Lions decide to keep six linebackers, with presumably that final slot going to someone that can bring value on special teams, then I think Steele Chambers, the linebacker out of Ohio State , has a real shot at earning one of those final roster spots. Losing Anthony Pittman in free agency potentially opens up that role for someone like Chambers.
Another player who could make the final roster is Kingsley Eguakun, the former Gator center. The Lions gave Eguakun a $245,000 bonus, which was the highest of the reported bonuses that they handed out this year. That kind of money speaks volumes to how they perceive his talent compared to the rest of the UDFA class. Eguakun was a name that some draft experts had high on their board (for a UDFA), and with the Lions’ depth at center being slim, there is a pretty clear path for him to make the roster, or at least a spot on the practice squad.
Let’s hear from you. Drop your thoughts and answers in the comments below.