Detroit Sports Thread [Archive] - The Diamond David Lee Roth Army

ALinChainz

12-25-2004, 08:39 AM

That's the spirit! Lions work OT on Christmas Eve

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

On the day before Christmas, the Lions practiced.

They were on the field Friday morning at 10:55 sharp, worked until approximately 12:15 p.m., took a break for lunch and then went into meetings.

Even with a 5-9 record and only a remote mathematical chance of making the playoffs at the end of yet another disappointing season, they still have work to do.

"I think the guys want to finish strong," coach Steve Mariucci said. "I think the guys want to compete, guys want to win a couple games here.

"They want to feel good about all the hard work they put into this thing, way back when, in the off-season. It's been a lot of lifting, a lot of running, a lot of practice and we want to have something to show for it. And there's a lot of other things that motivate these guys, too."

After four wins in the first six games, the Lions have gone steadily downhill, sinking to four games under .500, in need of victories against the Chicago Bears on Sunday at Ford Field and in the season finale Jan. 2 at Tennessee to avoid a fourth consecutive season with 10 losses or more.

After the Lions had a strong off-season -- signing guard Damien Woody and cornerback Fernando Bryant, and drafting wide receiver Roy Williams, running back Kevin Jones and linebacker Teddy Lehman -- there was a feeling they would be ready to contend in 2005.

With seven losses in the last eight games, there is less confidence that the Lions will be ready to compete for anything meaningful next season.

But they had an urgency -- even on Christmas Eve -- to get the necessary work done in order to gain whatever they can Sunday. A win and a 6-9 record -- with the possibility of 7-9 -- are better than a loss and 5-10, with the likelihood of 5-11. That was their record last year in Mariucci's first season as coach.

"It's progress in the win-loss column, but there's other ways to evaluate the team and it's development," Mariucci said.

"But, yes, we'd like to do that, obviously."

So they met, practiced and met some more in the afternoon before going home to enjoy the holiday with families and friends.

Mariucci said they watched Friday's practice on film and had general review sessions, which they normally would have done this morning.

Moving that work to Friday made for a longer day of preparation, but allowed the players and staff to spend Christmas Eve and most of Christmas at home.

Most players understand they are obligated to play -- whether it's on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or the day after Christmas.

"It's different when you're 9 years old," defensive end Cory Redding said. "You don't understand. But once I got a little older and once you understood, you still have to go out and do your job, and make time to celebrate with your family."

Redding said he had no problem mixing his football with his religious beliefs.

"We know what Christmas is really for -- the birth of Christ in Bethlehem and all that," he said.

"We incorporate Christ within our playing -- before the game and after the game. Even in your individual time, you see Shaun (Rogers) in the back of the end zone. He prays before the game. Certain guys in the locker room get together and pray."

And if the game Sunday against the Bears works out the way they're hoping, they will give themselves the gift of victory.

Quarterback Joey Harrington was in a giving mood as he wrapped up a week of practice and looked forward to the Chicago game.

Harrington was asked if he were approaching the Bears with the same gunslinger attitude that got him a career-high 361 yards passing in last Sunday's 28-27 loss to Minnesota.

"Sure," he said, laughing.

"It's Christmas, I've got to spread some (passes) around, give the guys some presents, get 'em some touchdowns."

NOTEBOOK: It appears cornerback Fernando Bryant will miss his third consecutive game with a sprained left ankle. He did not practice since testing the ankle Wednesday. ...

Wide receiver Az-Zahir Hakim (groin) did not practice, but Mariucci hopes he will be ready to play Sunday. ...

Wide receiver Tai Streets (knee) and defensive tackle Marcus Bell (ankle) practiced and are expected to play.

DrMaddVibe

12-27-2004, 12:45 PM

As long as Ford owns the team...they won't win shit!

He's happy taking the money off of the rubes dumb enough to pay for a ticket and a beer at "his" house than he is concerned about a Lombardi Trophy. A stroll to cash his checks is enough for him.

Some people NEVER learn. Even the greatest running back to play the game quit because of his tenure with that mediocre team. What does it take for the rest of you?

ALinChainz

12-28-2004, 03:18 PM

Case of drops besets Lions

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

By an unofficial count the Lions receivers dropped at least six passes Sunday.

But the blame -- in the eyes of Lions fans and even coach Steve Mariucci -- always seems to fall on quarterback Joey Harrington.

The fans -- perhaps because the Lions never trailed against Chicago -- actually took it easy on Harrington, even though he completed only 15 of 30 passes for 166 yards and threw an interception returned for a touchdown.

But when Mariucci was asked about the drops -- including at least three by Roy Williams, two by Stephen Alexander and one by Az-Zahir Hakim -- his immediate response Monday was to focus on Harrington.

"We can help that situation with a heck of a lot more work, obviously, by throwing the ball more accurately," Mariucci said.

He also commented on improved pass protection for Harrington and improved routes by the receivers, but -- when pressed on the issue -- the coach's focus was clearly on Harrington.

"What I'm saying is if a ball is down here, on a catch, that's a tougher catch than if it's right here," Mariucci said, demonstrating the difficulty of catching a ball thrown low as opposed to a throw that was on target at chest or shoulder level.

"The location of the throw figures into the equation. Yes, we'd like to catch the ball more; yes, we'd like to throw more accurately. How do we throw the ball more accurately? It's not just the two that are playing catch, it's everything around them."

In frequent cases during the season, Harrington's throws have been off-target, forcing receivers to extend or dive or leaving them in positions where they are vulnerable to hits from defensive players. If a receiver misses a throw under those circumstances, it is not considered a drop.

But the six drops Sunday -- some feel there were seven or eight -- were balls that were catchable, balls that hit receivers in the hands or the chest or could be caught in stride with major yardage to be gained.

Although Harrington said he had no quarrel with Mariucci's comments, Williams said the receivers -- himself included -- had to accept their share of the blame for the dropped balls.

"I don't know what he's saying," Williams said, referring to Mariucci's comments. "It's my job to catch the football, my job to come off the line when I'm supposed to.

"But the best thing about it is I've got another week to showcase what I can do. I want everybody to stay tuned for next week. There ain't going to be no more of that mess."

Williams admitted that two dropped passes showed "a little lack of concentration, I guess you could say" -- but said the third was a result of losing the ball in the bright sun shining through the atrium at Ford Field.

"It's fixable," he said. "I can catch the ball, I can catch the ball anywhere it's at. A receiver's not going to catch every single ball. He hopes and dreams he can catch every single ball, but the great ones drop them, you know. It's going to happen.

"I know what kind of football player I am, what kind of hands I have and the ability I have to catch the football. It's not tough, it's just a little pigskin. I'm not going to make it a big deal. I've dropped the ball before, I've never dropped two in a game. That's the first time; that's my last time."

Harrington, however, said Mariucci's demands for perfection were in line with the quarterback job description.

"That's the job of being a quarterback," Harrington said. "I expect more of myself than Coach does. Everything that Coach says, I feel myself two or three times over.

"This is the job of a quarterback -- to be perfect every time he goes out there. I know that's what both Coach and I expect."

Some observers close to the team view Mariucci's comments as an ongoing indication that the coach is not entirely sold on his quarterback's ability and his long-term possibilities of directing the team to the playoffs and beyond.

Harrington said he was not offended if he were not considered "Mariucci's guy" at this stage of his career.

"Because if he thinks this is as good as I can be, then we've got different problems," Harrington said. "I know there is more I can and need to do for this football team, so I don't think of it as 'I haven't won him over.'

"I just think both he and I think I can play better and need to play better for this team to get on the track that we want to be, because so much of an offense feeds off a quarterback. I think both of us just want me to play better."

NOTEBOOK: With Sunday's win, Detroit clinched third place in the NFC North, meaning its 2005 schedule is nearly intact. The breakdown: Green Bay, Chicago, Minnesota, Atlanta, Carolina, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Arizona, at Green Bay, at Chicago, at Minnesota, at New Orleans, at Tampa Bay, at Cleveland, at Pittsburgh and at the New York Giants or Washington -- whichever finishes third in the NFC East.

Contact CURT SYLVESTER at 313-222-2621 or sylvester@freepress.com.

BITEYOASS

12-30-2004, 12:49 PM

All I have to say is that at least they don't play as piss poor as the Arizona Cardinals. :D

POJO_Risin

12-30-2004, 02:04 PM

You gotta give Harrington 4 games...with healthy players...and see what happens...

depend on the schedule...shoot for 3-1...and go from there...

POJO_Risin

12-30-2004, 02:06 PM

I don't care if McMahon is the bastard child of Marino and Montana (which would be interesting), he's not the answer either...

ALinChainz

12-30-2004, 02:40 PM

Oh yeah. McMahon has never even been a good prospect, let alone a possible solution.

His accuracy is awful, he hasn't won at any level, including an 0-11 his senior year at Rutgers.

He is an athlete, no question, should look into a position change.

I would be amazed if he is ever a starter anywhere.

Drew Brees' success this season actually helped Harrington out in my mind, being his 4th year in the elague, next season being Joey's.

He has just said he would restructure his deal, as long as there is an extension that goes with it.

POJO_Risin

12-30-2004, 02:59 PM

I like Harrington...I think he could perform...he has a running game now...and next year he should have to fantastic receivers...so there SHOULD be no excuse for success...

ALinChainz

12-30-2004, 03:02 PM

I swear if Mr. Freakin' Spartan Charles Rogers gets hurt next season, I will personally drive a fucking U-Haul down there, pack up his brittle fucked up self and his shit and it's back to East Lansing.

Having him out there alone would be a huge difference.

Defense needs to stay healthy too.

Joey up til this season, rarely sacked at all. This season, different story. Not all his fault I agree. Play calling too.

Fucking Lions. Should finish somewhere in the top dozen picks in the next draft.

POJO_Risin

12-30-2004, 03:08 PM

Well...will be curious to see where they go with it...I'm guessing D...or line help..but we'll see...

Mariucci will be on the hot seat if they don't perform...

ALinChainz

12-30-2004, 03:58 PM

Safeties ... need them bad.

Solid at D Line ... young but should be solid at LB.

Secondary is and has been a bitch for awhile now.

Overall health and a healthy Rogers with a little upgrade on the OL.

Mooch will have some leeway here, cleaning up.

ALinChainz

12-30-2004, 04:26 PM

Williams, Jones give Lions hope

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Roy Williams said it last August. And now -- with just one game remaining in his rookie season -- he sees no reason to change his tune.

"There's no doubt about it," Williams said Wednesday. "This game is easy. It's just a fact of making plays. It happens sometimes and sometimes it didn't. But the game of football is easy."

For a wide receiver whose first season has virtually run the gamut -- from brilliant, spectacular plays early in the season, to the injury that cost him two games and slowed him significantly at midseason, to the frustrating dropped balls Sunday against Chicago -- that is saying a mouthful.

But in Williams and running back Kevin Jones -- the Lions' two first-round picks of the 2004 draft -- they landed players around whom they will be able to build for years to come.

Williams' impressive start included back-to-back two-touchdown games against Houston and Philadelphia. Despite troubles more recently, he still leads the Lions with 50 receptions for 755 yards and seven touchdowns.

"Roy has fought through some leg injuries and ankle injuries," coach Steve Mariucci said. "You watch him practice each day and he hasn't really been full speed much of the season. But to his credit, he's fought through it and participated as much and as well as he possibly could, and had a semi-productive year. He's going to be a heck of a player."

Jones started slowly in Mariucci's three-back rotation and was held back even more by a sprained ankle he suffered in the Sept. 26 game against Philadelphia. But he has rushed for 100 yards or more in four of the last six games and ranks fifth among NFC rushers with 1,061 yards. He also has five touchdowns.

"Kevin is really finishing the year strong," Mariucci said.

Jones the No. 30 pick overall, is definitely having the stronger finish of the two first-round picks.

Since Mariucci started giving him the majority of the carries in the Nov. 14 game at Jacksonville, Jones has turned in rushing totals of 81, 100, 99, 196, 156, 79 and 123 yards and is averaging a fraction less than 5.5 yards per carry over those seven games.

"Things are slowing down for me now," Jones explained. "And I'm just trying to get better each week."

If the game slowed down for Jones, it was probably because he learned to slow himself down after a few frantic attempts to make every play a big play in the exhibition season and the early regular season.

"Early in the season I don't think he really understood how to play the game," running backs coach Tom Rathman said. "It's not college, where you can just bounce everything outside and use your speed to create big plays.

"I think his success now is due to the fact he understands the scheme a little bit better and he has a little more patience as a runner. That's the one area he's doing really well in -- when he has the football in his hands."

Rathman won't be completely satisfied with Jones, however, until he becomes a complete player, which means improving his blocking skills, especially in blitz pickup, and becoming a more polished receiver.

But the product the Titans will see Sunday at Tennessee is already an NFL-caliber back.

"You can't say enough about the running back," Titans coach Jeff Fisher said. "We've played some good running backs this year, but this might be our greatest test of the year.

"We really liked Kevin coming out and the last five weeks he's had a phenomenal end to the season."

The Lions knew they were getting a quality back. The one thing that might have surprised even them was the power with which he runs, as Jones showed in a play last Sunday against Chicago. He pushed four defenders down the field for the final 8-10 yards of a 33-yard run.

"He's had several of those this year," Rathman said. "I don't think he was noted as a power runner coming out of college. More of a slasher, speed-type guy, but if you could identify him as the type of game he brings, he's a power runner. He's fast, he can make the cuts and then he can run through tackles."

Except for his 104-yard, two-touchdown game against Minnesota two weeks ago, Williams had his best games early in the season. The ankle injury he suffered Oct. 10 at Atlanta limited his speed and cutting ability several weeks into November and even early December.

And, while he sticks to his theory that football is an easy game to play, he has learned something about the need for staying power and the need to avoid injuries in the NFL.

"If you look at the stats after the injury, it was 30 yards here, 40 yards here, instead of the big games I had before the injury," said Williams, the seventh pick in the draft.

Williams said he would like to make up for his drops in the Chicago game with a superior performance -- and a Lions' win -- against the Titans.

Williams was asked if he could see himself and Jones eventually becoming a combination like Isaac Bruce and Marshall Faulk at St. Louis or Marvin Harrison and Edgerrin James at Indianapolis.

"No, I think maybe a Roy Williams-Kevin Jones-Charles Rogers combination," he said of the other prized young receiver, who was lost for the season because of a broken collarbone suffered in the opener at Chicago. "I think that's what we'll get to be."

Thinking small, obviously, is not the way Williams approaches this easy game.

NOTEBOOK: Mariucci held out or limited several players in Wednesday's practice -- guards Damien Woody (groin) and David Loverne (knee), cornerback Fernando Bryant (ankle) and wide receivers Tai Streets (knee) and Az-Zahir Hakim (groin). Quarterback Joey Harrington (elbow) took fewer snaps but is listed as probable.

Contact CURT SYLVESTER at 313-222-2621 or sylvester@freepress.com.

ALinChainz

01-01-2005, 10:45 PM

Shaun Rogers signs six-year deal with Detroit Lions

January 1, 2005

DETROIT(AP) -- The Detroit Lions reached a six-year deal with Shaun Rogers on Saturday, making him the highest paid defensive tackle in the NFL, his agent said.

The Lions and agent Kennard McGuire would not reveal terms of the contract.

``This will make Shaun the best-paid defensive tackle in the game,'' McGuire said. ``We are very pleased with what we have been able to get for him.''

The 25-year-old Rogers, 6-foot-4 and 345 pounds, was chosen to the Pro Bowl this year and was an alternate last year. He has 75 tackles, four sacks, two blocked kicks and a fumble recovery this season.

ALinChainz

01-02-2005, 01:39 AM

Pride of the Lions at stake in final game

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Even the mathematical possibilities finally ran out on the Lions.

So they will play out the season the same way they played out last season. And, before that, the 2002 and 2001 seasons.

They virtually took themselves out of playoff contention by going 1-7 during a midseason slump, although they maintained hope of slipping into a wild-card playoff berth.

Now even the most remote mathematical possibility has been eliminated. Seems that 6-10 or 7-9 just won't make it, even in a down year for the NFC.

The Lions' only motivation in their season finale Sunday at Tennessee will be what they can manufacture in their own minds -- pride of performance, the pleasure of playing the game right and the possibility of finishing the season with a victory.

And for some of them -- including middle linebacker Earl Holmes -- it is not that difficult.

"Nothing else matters at 1 o'clock when that ball is kicked off," Holmes said. "We're competitors; we compete. When it's Super Bowl or playoff time and we have to win this game, you're going to play like it's your last game anyway because we're competitors.

"The mental part of it is, man, we want to beat Tennessee. And they want to beat us. We're competitors, regardless of what the situation might be."

The reality, however, is that after their 4-2 start, the Lions expected to be playing for something more meaningful by the end of the season. Had they broken even in the final 10 games, they would have made the playoffs.

They can look back at the past two months and find any number of wasted opportunities -- games that would have put them there.

"We've lost about five games where we had a chance at the end for somebody to make a play; it hasn't happened for us," coach Steve Mariucci said. "Otherwise, we'd be in the playoffs.

"We're getting to the point of make that play or not, and -- as we go forward -- we're going to make that play more often."

So what is the driving force for a 6-9 team playing on the road against a 4-11 opponent?

"Each guy here has a certain motivation, a certain reason -- and they might be different reasons from one guy to the next -- why this game's important, why they should play well, why they should play hard," Mariucci said.

"They're professional athletes, and you expect that from them. And they expect it from themselves. ... I expect us to play well."

A victory certainly would not save the season for the Lions, but it would edge them slightly closer to respectability at 7-9 after consecutive seasons of 2-14, 3-13 and 5-11. And it would enable them to go into the off-season feeling a little bit better about themselves.

"When this is the taste that's going to be left in your mouth for the rest of the off-season, you always want to do it right," quarterback Joey Harrington said. "And, personally, I need to continue to grow, continue to learn and continue to improve. This is another game to do that."

Although Mariucci has avoided experimenting with young players in expanded roles in the final weeks, it seems he is giving quarterbacks coach Greg Olson an audition for a greater role in play-calling next season.

Olson called the offensive plays in the past two games, against Minnesota and Chicago, and apparently will call them Sunday.

Mariucci gave former Lions coach Marty Mornhinweg similar responsibilities when Mornhinweg was his assistant at San Francisco, thereby allowing himself a greater focus on managing the game. Mariucci and offensive coordinator Sherman Lewis have an input in play-calling, but Olson is making most of the decisions.

"Having coached the quarterbacks, I've always felt the guy that's with him 18 hours a day -- which is his coach -- should have a good feel for what that guy is good at, what that guy likes, dislikes, what he feels a little uncomfortable with," Mariucci said.

"That quarterback coach is closest to the situation, and obviously in communication with him continuously throughout a game, so that's a logical person to be giving him a play. So we're doing some of that right now.

"I'm seeing how it goes. We're trying to observe it and look at it, see if that helps us. We're trying to find out what helps us the best in terms of giving him the play in a timely fashion, allowing him to have some time out there to think about it, chew on it, talk to his huddle, more time over the ball."

NOTEBOOK: Guard Damien Woody practiced Friday for the first time this week and likely will play Sunday. Neither wide receiver Az-Zahir Hakim nor Tai Streets practiced, but one or both probably will start, too.

Contact CURT SYLVESTER at 313-222-2621 or sylvester@freepress.com.

ALinChainz

01-03-2005, 04:14 PM

DREW SHARP: It's time for results from Mooch after two seasons

January 3, 2005

BY DREW SHARP
FREE PRESS COLUMNIST

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- During one last same-old, same-old postmortem, Steve Mariucci's attention wandered to far more interesting developments unfolding on a television in the room.

As he repeated the stock answers after another Lions collapse, Mariucci's eyes stayed glued to the final moments of the St. Louis-New York Jets overtime thriller.

What a concept.

You had two teams heading to the end of the last game with a playoff berth at stake.

He couldn't turn away.

It must have seemed like a million years ago since Mariucci was in a similar position.

He's disappointed in this team, but more important, he's disappointed in himself. He expected faster development than just three more wins from when he took over amid the hoopla and pageantry two years ago.

The biggest disappointment of a fourth straight season of double-digit losses was the head coaching.

People expected more from Mooch than what they've gotten. The Fords signed a $25-million check over five years for more credibility, more discipline and more toughness. After two years and 21 losses, all they've gotten for their investment is a stubbornly rigid philosophy that's choking away any potential offensive life.

As the final seconds ticked away from another horror show Sunday, so too did this mark the end of the $25-million man's honeymoon.

Mariucci has had two years to evaluate, two years to indoctrinate. And now it's time for results.

His job should be in serious jeopardy after next season if he can't get enough out of these guys to merit a playoff berth in what should likely remain a woeful NFC.

If he desires a new quarterback, fine. Make it work. And understand that if any new challenge to Joey Harrington fails, it would be Mariucci's disaster 100 percent.

The offensive playbook requires more than just a little tweaking. Everybody knew that Mariucci was a conservative offensive thinker, but it seems the Lions never challenge opposing defenses.

And it's not about tricky gadget plays like the double reverse-flea flicker-Statue of Liberty that we drew up on the neighborhood street as kids. It's about keeping defenses off rhythm.

"I'm not pleased," Mariucci said when asked how he would grade himself this season. "I don't do grades. But I expected to bring this team along a lot faster."

So because he won't grade himself, allow me.

He gets a D for this season.

If you didn't know who was on the sideline, you'd have sworn it was a Marty Mornhinweg operation from 2001 and 2002 with the endless mental errors and overall bad execution. The Lions remain an emotional vacuum. They have no leadership in that locker room, placing even more of the onus on the coaches.

Mariucci said he'll spend this week evaluating what the Lions' personnel priorities will be in the off-season. A fast, physical safety should be first on the list, a good veteran quarterback who could win the starter's job is second, and a playmaking tight end third.

But he should honestly evaluate himself first.

Roy Williams told coaches the Tennessee safety had adjusted to an earlier route and perhaps they should adjust as well.

The coaches didn't listen. The Lions tried the same play later and it proved unsuccessful.

"All I can do is run what's called and try to catch the ball," Williams said.

Williams said later that he wasn't criticizing the West Coast offense. He just doesn't think the Lions should be married to one basic concept and that the coaches should adopt elements from other teams.

"Why not take a little something from these various teams and make it Steve Mariucci's offense?" Williams said. "We could call it the Motown offense. People would like that, wouldn't they?"

But that would require more flexibility from Mariucci.

Maybe the changes have already begun. Mariucci, perhaps grudgingly, surrendered offensive play-calling responsibility to quarterbacks coach Greg Olson three games ago out of concerns that it was compromising his overall game management.

Time has a way of quickly catching up to you. It wasn't that long ago when Mariucci walked out onto the stage at Ford Field as the living messiah. He would cut through the history of mediocrity.

The Lions finally nabbed a head coach who was in high demand in the NFL when the Lions courted him. And the Fords deserved a pat on the back for their willingness to pay whatever the cost in their still seemingly hopeless quest to give this city its second playoff win in nearly a half-century.

But just as there are doubts about Harrington, there are justifiable questions about Mariucci as he approaches his most important off-season here.

The toughness, the discipline, the credibility that were promised at the outset aren't there.

Pointing the blame at Matt Millen is certainly deserved and obviously more convenient. Mariucci was well insulated from the criticisms, but not anymore.

His reputation is on the line.

"I can't wait to start next year," Mariucci said Sunday. "I wish that it would start tomorrow."

A little advice, Mooch: It does.

Contact DREW SHARP at 313-223-4055 or dsharp@freepress.com.

ALinChainz

01-03-2005, 04:17 PM

Blocked field goals fine, but Rogers is hungry for wins

January 3, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- He didn't want to hear it. The blocked field goal attempt? Big deal. The Lions lost to the Titans, 24-19.

"If you don't win, there's not too much positive," Shaun Rogers said Sunday. "That's the bottom line. You've got to win to be happy."

This is why the Lions signed the 25-year-old Rogers to a six-year contract extension reportedly worth $46 million -- including a $15-million signing bonus -- making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in the NFL.

It must have been tempting to coast, one day after signing such a fat deal, with the playoffs out of reach, having made the Pro Bowl. But Rogers played hard, and when it didn't lead to a "W," he was surly.

"The guy always plays hard," Lions coach Steve Mariucci said, "and he made a big play and gave us a chance again."

The Lions were behind in the fourth quarter, 24-13. They had turned over the ball, and the Titans were trying to capitalize by kicking a field goal.

But Rogers got in the way. It was the sixth blocked field goal of his four-year NFL career. He also has blocked a PAT attempt.

All Rogers had to say about the play was: "You just put pressure up the middle, get your hands up and try to see the ball and block it."

He was more colorful about the play of the defensive line, which didn't have a sack but knocked Tennessee quarterback Billy Volek out of the game with a separated shoulder.

"We got off to a sluggish start, and then some jibber-jabbering got started and some things got riled up," he said. "I think we left our mark. Even though it was a loss, I think we left our mark as a defensive line. ...

"We go out there to play hard, and if you happen to be in the way, you happen to be in the way."

He had a little to say about the contract extension, but not much.

"It's a blessing," he said when first asked about it. "I'm glad we got it done. Now we can do what we've been doing, play ball."

Asked about it again -- about avoiding any issues related to the franchise-player designation, specifically -- he said, "I'm happy to get it done. It shows they have some belief in me, a sense of commitment that I share. Hopefully I can be around a long time and continue to be productive and not disappoint anybody."

Contact NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA at 313-222-8831 or cotsonika@freepress.com.

ALinChainz

01-03-2005, 04:21 PM

Another frustrating season for Joey

January 3, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Not again. The Lions were down by five and down inside the 20. It was the final minute of the fourth quarter and fourth down. Quarterback Joey Harrington threw the ball for wide receiver Roy Williams, only to see it deflected and fall to the turf.

The Titans took a knee a couple of times, and that was it, another close-but-not-quite loss for the Lions, 24-19.

"It's frustrating," Harrington said, whispering at first. "You look back through the course of the game, and you can pick out five or six plays that coulda, shoulda, woulda made a difference. But you never know when they're going to come up. It's just frustrating."

The season came to an appropriate end Sunday, for the Lions in general, for Harrington in particular.

Harrington was 33-for-49 for 346 yards. It was the third time in three seasons he reached 300 yards. The first came his rookie year, when he threw for 309 against Minnesota. The second came two weeks ago, when he threw for 361 against the Vikings.

But a big reason Harrington threw so much was that the Lions were playing from behind -- note his other 300-yard games were losses, too -- and he turned over the ball twice Sunday.

In the first quarter, Harrington was stripped by linebacker Keith Bulluck.

"I didn't even see him coming," Harrington said. "Roy beat his guy up the seam, and I was right about to pull the trigger."

By the time Harrington figured out where the ball was, Bulluck had recovered the fumble and was 15 yards downfield, on his way to a touchdown that, with the point after, put the Titans ahead, 7-0.

In the fourth, with the Lions trying to come back from a 24-13 deficit, Harrington was intercepted by cornerback Andre Dyson. Making matters worse, he was called for a low block on the return.

"I've done that a couple times this year. I didn't know it was a penalty," Harrington said. "The rule is in place to protect people's knees, and I had no intention of injuring the guy or taking the guy's knees out. He was the lead blocker for the guy who was running right behind him, and I just tried to blow the play up. There was no malice involved."

It's frustrating. ... It's just frustrating.

Harrington could have said it over and over again. He didn't seem upset when asked if he would welcome a veteran quarterback who knew how to run the West Coast offense, considering backups Mike McMahon and Rick Mirer are free agents and likely will be replaced.

"That's what we've had the last three years, with Ty Detmer and Rick Mirer," he said. "I'd welcome anybody who fits into this team. The objective is to win football games."

But when someone suggested quarterbacks were supposed to make strides in their third year of the West Coast offense, Harrington took issue with it.

"Everybody grows at a different rate, because everybody has different experiences," he said. "There's no magic year or magic formula that says, 'By Year 3, he's going to be Joe Montana.' I mean, we've got a lot of things to clean up in the off-season.

"Do I feel like I made strides? Yeah, I do. More touchdowns, less interceptions. Had some success."

For the record, Harrington threw 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions this season, versus 17 and 22 last season and 12 and 16 his rookie year. The Lions went 6-10, versus 5-11 and 3-13.

"I feel better this year than I did last year, and so in my mind that's improvement," Harrington said. "Is it enough improvement? Was it enough improvement for us to go to the playoffs this year? No. I've got to get better. I mean, everybody in this room has to get better."

Harrington said he would "sit in an ice bucket for a couple of weeks," to heal mentally and physically, then get back to work.

"The season here is so long, you've got to take a minute to yourself and put your head back," he said. "Going through what we went through this year, I mean, there were mornings when it was a struggle to drive into work. Knowing we just lost another close one, that takes a toll on you."

ALinChainz

01-03-2005, 04:25 PM

NOTEBOOK: Lions' outlook seems healthy

Young players give them hope for '05
January 3, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Twenty minutes -- that's all it took. Maybe not even that long.

By the time the Lions got back to the locker room from their 24-19 loss to Tennessee in the season finale, coach Steve Mariucci had switched their focus from the failures of 2004 to the possibilities of 2005.

"There's all kinds of hope for next year," Mariucci said. "I can't wait to start next year. I wish that it would start tomorrow.

"There's so much more out there for these guys. They just really skimmed the surface. I'm looking at our youngsters -- my first and second years of drafting. They have played so much football and we're going to benefit from that.

"I can't wait till they become experienced players, because then they'll be consistent. They'll make plays all over the place. They'll be able to take charge of a game rather than get their feet wet.

"The hope is there, we're anxious to get there. There's going to be a lot of work to do -- yes -- but when we get it done, it'll be a lot of fun."

Although the Lions' 6-10 record was a step up from last year's 5-11, no one was selling it as the kind of improvement they needed or wanted to make a meaningful step toward competing for an NFC North title.

What Mariucci was selling -- and his players apparently were buying -- was the idea that all of this year's young players have the potential to take the team to bigger and better things.

"Even though we didn't make the playoffs and we didn't finish the way we wanted to, it's still one more win than we had last year," cornerback Dré Bly said. "I feel like with Coach coming in, we can expect a fast turnaround.

"I think with guys coming back healthy next year -- having a healthy Charles Rogers and K.J. (Kevin Jones) from the first game, having a healthy Roy Williams for 16 games -- we'll be a better football team.

"I'm going to just look forward to next year and really dedicate myself this off-season to try to get some of the guys going, to compete and get better. Hopefully, we can learn from our mistakes because next year will be big for this organization."

ALinChainz

01-05-2005, 01:10 PM

Lions end season in familiar fashion

By LARRY LAGE, AP Sports Writer
January 4, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions did in 2004 what they often have during their decades of futility since winning the 1957 NFL title.

Detroit teased its fans with some wins they didn't expect, and a handful of players showed flashes of promise for the future.

But by the end of the season, the Lions' record (6-10) was lackluster and their victories were overshadowed by several near-misses and a few blowouts.

``I look at the whole year as a huge, missed opportunity,'' Lions CEO Matt Millen said. ``We started OK, but finished really poorly. We got complacent, lost our sense of urgency and that led to losing to teams with less talent, and that's just an awful feeling.''

When the Lions were 4-2 in October, they were praised for turning it around after winning an NFL-low 10 games over the previous three seasons. When they lost eight of their last 10, they were regarded as the lowly Lions again.

``Even though we got off to a good start, we were winning without playing good football,'' Jeff Backus said. ``Then, we lost our sense of urgency and that really came back to bite us.''

Minnesota and St. Louis are both in the NFC playoffs despite 8-8 records. That's what really bothers the Lions, who wasted big leads in some games and missed opportunities to win others.

``It's a tough thing to handle,'' Joey Harrington said. ``The only thing you can do is use it for motivation for next year. We've gotten to that point where we're close. When we come back, it's going to be time to win.''

Harrington set career highs with 19 touchdowns, 3,047 yards and a 56.0 completion percentage and threw a career-low 12 interceptions. In his third NFL season, he was booed often at home and challenged regularly by coach Steve Mariucci.

``What he has developed is some thick skin,'' Mariucci said. ``I'm hard on Joey and he likes it that way. He's making progress.''

The Lions were determined to surround Harrington with help this season and they appeared to have succeeded with two first-round picks: receiver Roy Williams and running back Kevin Jones.

Williams had 54 receptions for 817 yards and eight TDs, all records for a Detroit rookie. With 1,133 yards rushing, Jones reached a milestone just Barry Sanders and Billy Sims did as Lions rookies. After an ankle injury slowed him early in the season, Jones ran for an NFL-high 825 yards over the final seven games.

When Detroit was struggling to score points, Eddie Drummond helped out with two TDs on punt returns and two on kickoff returns. Drummond was picked to play in the Pro Bowl, but likely will miss the game because of a shoulder injury.

On the other side of the ball, defensive tackle Shaun Rogers solidified himself as a star -- earning his first Pro Bowl invitation -- and was rewarded with a six-year contract last week.

``I'm glad we got Shaun's deal done because we can really build around him,'' Millen said.

With Rogers clogging up the middle and James Hall getting a career-high 11 1/2 sacks despite playing all year with a broken thumb, Detroit's defensive line was among the league's best.

Rookie linebacker Teddy Lehman had a solid season, playing a team-high 1,225 plays, and cornerback Dre' Bly made four interceptions, earning a second straight trip to the Pro Bowl.

``I've got a thousand reasons to be optimistic,'' Mariucci said. ``Yes, the record is disappointing, we all agree on that. What is encouraging as we go forward, and I have to keep reminding myself, half of our starters and half of this football team are players that are on their first contract, which means they're young.''

Through free agency and the draft, starting with the 10th overall pick, the Lions hope to add at least one safety, at least one quarterback, a receiver, a guard and a defensive lineman.

They would like to re-sign some of their free agents, but it might be difficult to bring back offensive tackle Stockar McDougle, who is unrestricted and could draw interest elsewhere.

Some have wondered how long Millen, who just completed his fourth season, will stick around to run the Lions when he could be making stress-free millions again as a TV analyst.

``I'm going to finish what I started,'' Millen said. ``And by finish, I mean win a Super Bowl. It will not be enough for me to just win more games, because everybody who does not win the Super Bowl is a failure in this league.''

ALinChainz

01-06-2005, 10:25 AM

Jones is named offensive rookie of December

FREE PRESS NEWS SERVICES

The Detroit Lions running back Kevin Jones is NFL offensive rookie of the month for December. He rushed for 626 yards and averaged 5.1 a carry in the Lions' final five games. He led all rookie backs with 1,133 yards this season.

ALinChainz

01-14-2005, 12:15 PM

3 Lions aides interview to run offense

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Coach Steve Mariucci has interviewed three Lions assistants -- running backs coach Tom Rathman, line coach Pat Morris and quarterbacks coach Greg Olson -- but apparently is not close to naming an offensive coordinator.

"They have all expressed an interest if I want to go in that direction," Mariucci said Thursday. "They would be ready, willing and able to do that."

Although Mariucci thinks highly of all three, he appears more likely to keep them as position coaches and hire a coordinator from outside the organization.

"I wouldn't want to take any one of those three away from their duties now," he said. "They're very good at what they do.

The new coordinator will replace Sherm Lewis, who retired.

"Sherm was a walk-around coordinator, so I could fill it with a walk-around coordinator," Mariucci said, referring to a coach who moves from one offensive group to another during practice. "I'm going to entertain the possibilities there and if we can't find the right person, I can always go in-house."

Mariucci said he expects to interview a number of candidates, including San Francisco offensive coordinator Ted Tollner.

In all likelihood, the coordinator will be familiar with the West Coast offense and will play a role in the revisions Mariucci has in mind for the 2005 Lions and quarterback Joey Harrington.

"We are giving Joey -- and I'm trying to prove it by the way we've been with him -- every opportunity to develop into our quarterback," Mariucci said. "I can't guarantee he's our quarterback for the next 12 years, but everything we have been doing is in keeping with developing him for the future, making progress every way we can.

"Some of it's about his skills, some of it's about surrounding him with people, some of it is how do we best use him -- what does he do best, what should we stay away from?"

ALinChainz

01-14-2005, 02:32 PM

Lion Bytes: Free-Agent Update, Draft & More

Scout.com - Scout.com

January 13, 2005 at 10:44pm ET

List of Lions' free-agents heading into the off-season, draft update and more.

FREE-AGENT UPDATE:
--TE Stephen Alexander (UFA. Too many drops but upgraded the position in 2004, likely to be re-signed.)
--DT Marcus Bell (UFA. Made a strong, positive impact on D-line rotation and will be re-signed.)
--CB Chris Cash (RFA. Didn't have a good year but will probably be tendered at minimum amount.)
--KR Eddie Drummond (RFA. A Pro Bowler who's special when he's healthy. Lions cannot afford to lose him.)
--S Vernon Fox (RFA. Proved he can help on special teams, likely to be back.)
--CB Andre Goodman (RFA. Too many lapses in coverage leave his future in doubt.)
--G Tyrone Hopson (RFA. Surprised with good showing in final game, might have earned a contract for 2005.)
--RT Stockar McDougle (UFA. The Lions want him back but won't break the bank to keep him because he seldom plays up to his athletic potential.)
--QB Mike McMahon (UFA. Mariucci likes him, but McMahon wants to compete for a starting job. That's not likely in Detroit.)
--QB Rick Mirer (UFA. No. 3 QB for the past season. Didn't do anything wrong but not likely to be re-signed.)
--DT Kelvin Pritchett (UFA. After 14 NFL seasons, it might be time to call it a career.)
--LB Wali Rainer (UFA. A valuable performer on special teams when he plays under control. Expected to be re-signed.)
--C Dominic Raiola (UFA. O-line coach Pat Morris puts him in situations he handles best -- pulling, blocking on the move. Will be re-signed.)
--OT Victor Rogers (RFA. Very little experience but could be insurance in case they don't bring McDougle back.)
--CB Dainon Sidney (UFA. Spent the season on IR, not likely to be back for 2005.)
--WR Tai Streets (UFA. A disappointing season, not much of a factor in Lions offense. Leaves his career with the Lions in doubt.)
--WR Reggie Swinton (UFA. Inconsistent as a receiver but valuable as backup to frequently injured KR/PR Eddie Drummond.)
--FB Stephen Trejo (UFA. Cut once last summer, came back to play on special teams. Probably will not be re-signed.)
--SS Bracy Walker (UFA. Adequate backup in the secondary but best as a special teamer. Lions want him back.)

FEELING A DRAFT: Unlike a couple of years ago, when they needed help at virtually every position, the Lions can be selective in both the draft and free agency. They'll get a left guard, a safety and then look for a promising TE. A speed pass rusher would interest them because Kalimba Edwards , a second-round pick in 2002, still hasn't panned out.

MEDICAL WATCH: TE Stephen Alexander (ankle), WR Roy Williams (ankle) and DE Jared DeVries (sports hernia) all are candidates for surgeries early in the offseason. None appears to be a serious problem, however.

ALinChainz

01-21-2005, 02:05 PM

McCarthy leading candidate for Lions OC

Mike Fowler - Scout.com

January 20, 2005 at 2:27pm ET

The leader as they make the clubhouse turn for the home stretch appears to be Saints offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy in the same role with Detroit.

ALLEN PARK - The leader as they make the clubhouse turn for the home stretch appears to be Saints offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy in the same role with Detroit.

With Scott Linehan accepting a three-year deal to run Nick Saban's offense in Miami, McCarthy appears to be the odds-on favorite over former 49ers coordinator Ted Tollner .

The Lions need to replace the retired Sherman Lewis who occupied the position under Mariucci. The team began giving some play calling responsibility to quarterbacks coach Greg Olson, a move that didn't sit well with Lewis.

McCarthy, 41, would be expected to help tailor the Lions playbook to accomodate the strengths of third-year quarterback Joey Harrington . Harrington appears to favor a more vertical passing attack rather than the dink and dunk approach the Lions used most of the season.

Lions head coach Steve Mariucci wants the offensive coordinator to have significant input into reworking the team's version of the West Coast offense and is delaying much of the work on it until a coordinator is in place.

If he is in fact their guy, the Lions may need to move quickly as the Baltimore Ravens and the Minnesota Vikings are interested in talking to McCarthy.

Lions running backs coach Tom Rathman is among new 49ers head coach Mike Nolan's candidates for the San Francisco offensive coordinator job. Saints head coach Jim Haslett has been under a mandate from owner Tom Benson to re-work his coaching staff after a disappointing season in New Orleans. He has given permission for McCarthy to interview with other interested teams and has fired three assistants this offseason.

Detroit is still considering former 49ers offensive coordinator Ted Tollner, who was hired by Mariucci before he was let go in San Francisco. Tollner's offense was criticized for being too conservative, but he was working with an inexperienced quarterback and not much talent in his receiving corps. Mariucci is expected to talk with Tollner again this week.

ALinChainz

01-22-2005, 10:46 PM

NFL ROUNDUP: Lions ponder Trestman as offensive coordinator

FREE PRESS NEWS SERVICES

Marc Trestman, who spent a year with the Lions as the quarterbacks coach for Bobby Ross in 1997, is one of the candidates being considered by Steve Mariucci for the team's offensive coordinator job.

Trestman, 49, is a 17-year NFL coaching veteran and is highly regarded as one of the bright offensive minds, skilled in creating and running an offense. He was quarterbacks coach for the Miami Dolphins last season.

Although he has never been an NFL head coach, he has been in demand since taking his first NFL staff position with Minnesota in 1985. Since then he has held positions with seven more teams, including the San Francisco 49ers, where he learned the West Coast offense in 1995-96.

Trestman is one of at least three coaches interviewed by Mariucci this week for the coordinator's job left vacant by Sherman Lewis' retirement. The others were offensive coordinators Ted Tollner of San Francisco and Mike McCarthy of New Orleans.

Free Press Story (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news;_ylc=X3oDMTBqNzlzc2dtBF9TAzI1NjY0ODI1BHNlYwNs dG4-?slug=knight-nflrounduplionspondertres&prov=knight&type=lgns)

ALinChainz

01-26-2005, 01:29 PM

Lions settle on Tollner

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Steve Mariucci has settled on Ted Tollner as the Lions' offensive coordinator, according to persons familiar with the situation at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala.

Tollner, who was the San Francisco 49ers' offensive coordinator this past season, was one of six assistants interviewed by the Lions' head coach in his search for a replacement for Sherman Lewis, who announced his retirement at the end of the 2004 season.

Mariucci also interviewed New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Mike McCarthy and Miami quarterbacks coach Marc Trestman, in addition to three Lions assistants -- running backs coach Tom Rathman, quarterbacks coach Greg Olson and offensive line coach Pat Morris.

Sources said Mariucci informed the coordinator candidates of his decision this week during Senior Bowl practices, where most NFL scouts and coaches are watching top draft prospects work out. Lions spokesmen could not confirm the report Tuesday night.

Tollner, 64, had head coaching stints at the College of San Mateo, Southern California, and San Diego State before moving to the NFL as an assistant coach with Buffalo, San Diego and the L.A. Rams.

ALinChainz

01-28-2005, 01:16 PM

Lions: Bailey on the mend

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com
Friday, January 28, 2005

News
Lions' linebacker Boss Bailey will not need further surgery to repair the right knee injury he suffered prior to last season. Bailey missed the entire 2004 campaign, but is on pace to make a full recovery, according to the Detroit News. Bailey recorded 88 tackles during his 2003 rookie season.

Views
Bailey is expected to regain his starting strongside linebacker job. The Lions want to find a spot for Teddy Lehman, who filled in for Bailey last year. Lehman recorded 75 tackles last season and might move to the middle or weakside position.

ALinChainz

02-03-2005, 05:13 PM

Lewand denies report that he's headed to Seattle

Thursday, February 03, 2005

ALLEN PARK -- Contrary to a published report, Detroit Lions executive vice president and chief operating officer Tom Lewand is not considering leaving the Lions to become the president of the Seattle Seahawks.

"I haven't talked to anybody in Seattle," said Lewand, adding that he has no plans to do so. "No, I'm very happy where I am and we have a lot of business to take care of here. I want to win the Super Bowl right here in Detroit."

The Tacoma News Tribune reported that Lewand was one of four candidates for the Seahawks' vacant position.

http://www.mlive.com/lions/stories/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/110742900146740.xml#continue

ALinChainz

02-03-2005, 05:14 PM

Lions evaluating defense for personnel changes

Tuesday, February 01, 2005

By Tom Kowalski

ALLEN PARK -- While most of the attention has been focused on the changes -- or lack of changes -- coming in the Detroit Lions' offense in the off-season, there could also be some significant shifts in how the team plays defense, too.

While many of the adjustments on offense will result from a revamped playbook and some coaching changes, Detroit's defensive philosophy will likely be based on the overall personnel. That means those modifications might not be seen until training camp.

The Lions, who have the 10th overall pick in the April draft, are in desperate need of a safety, but could also do some upgrading at defensive end and linebacker.

Detroit's defense was 22nd overall in the NFL last season, including 28th in third-down efficiency. Head coach Steve Mariucci will likely have to use the draft and free agency to add some playmakers to that unit. Mariucci said he isn't as concerned about the strategic direction of the defense as much as he is about getting the right people.

"Whether you're going to be a blitzing team or a two-deep zone team, well, you'd better have the personnel that can do that," Mariucci said. "We're going to need to add to our defensive personnel and then be able to make decisions of how we're going to play defense, what's best for our group."

The Lions did very little blitzing last season, partly because their starting cornerbacks (Dre Bly and Fernando Bryant) were injured for most of the season and also because defensive coordinator Dick Jauron leans toward a bend-but-don't-break system.

Jauron believes winning defenses are based on turnovers and touchdowns, and that yardage and other statistics are meaningless.

Still, Mariucci will have the defensive staff go through the playbook and refine it.

"They're going through it right now, just like the offense is, and they'll evaluate what they do best and whether they want to make any changes to the way we play and who do we want to bring in here to do that," Mariucci said.

The only positions the Lions don't need to address is defensive tackle, where they have Shaun Rogers and Dan Wilkinson, and cornerback.

At defensive end, James Hall and Cory Redding are the starters but, at the backup position, Kalimba Edwards has been inconsistent and Jared DeVries is coming off sports hernia surgery.

At safety, Brock Marion struggled last season and could be replaced while Bracy Walker, who might stick as a backup, won't be the starter on the strong side next season.

The Lions are deep at linebacker but there are questions. Can Boss Bailey, who missed last season with a knee problem, return healthy for a full season? Teddy Lehman did a decent job in Bailey's spot, but will he be successful if he shifts to the middle or weak side? The Lions could make an upgrade at any of the three positions, either in the draft or free agency.

Because he spends the majority of his time with the offense, Mariucci is leaving the bulk of the decision-making on defensive strategy to Jauron. As long as it's successful, Mariucci doesn't care which style the Lions adopt.

"When you look around the league and how people play defense -- the good defenses -- there are a variety of styles," Mariucci said. "It's not like they all blitz or they all play two-deep zone or drop nine (off the line) or whatever. All I want to do is keep people out of the end zone. Get people to punt and get them off the field and take the ball away. That's the most important part. How? I don't care. We can blitz every down or we can play zone every down, I don't care. I've seen it all work well with various teams. I just want us to become a better defense."

Mariucci has heard the same criticisms about the defense as he has about the offense: the Lions aren't aggressive enough.

"I don't know what the word aggressive means, whether it's blitzing more often or just playing solid, stingy defense . . . whatever it is, we have to get better at it," Mariucci said.

http://www.mlive.com/lions/stories/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/1107256205129650.xml

ALinChainz

02-09-2005, 05:06 PM

Detroit Lions hire Graves as receivers coach

February 9, 2005
ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- Fred Graves was hired by the Detroit Lions as their wide receivers coach Wednesday.

Graves, who coached the Cleveland Browns' receivers last season, replaces Kevin Higgins, whose contract expired.

Graves will be charged with developing Detroit's groups of young, talented receivers, including Roy Williams and Charles Rogers.

He spent 2001-03 with the Buffalo Bills. Before moving to the NFL, Graves spent 19 seasons at Utah, his alma mater, in a variety of coaching positions.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-lions-graves&prov=ap&type=lgns

ALinChainz

02-12-2005, 10:44 PM

Lions | Alexander Undergoes Surgery - from www.KFFL.com
Sat, 12 Feb 2005 09:45:50 -0800

Updating a previous report, Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions TE Stephen Alexander (ankle) underwent surgery to repair an ankle injury shortly following the conclusion of the 2004 season.

Lions | R. Williams Undergoes Surgery - from www.KFFL.com
Sat, 12 Feb 2005 09:44:56 -0800

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions WR Roy Williams (ankle) underwent surgery Thursday, Feb. 10, to clean up an ankle injury that hampered him during the final eight games of 2004.

Lions | Warner Interested in Detroit - from www.KFFL.com
Sat, 12 Feb 2005 09:43:45 -0800

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci acknowledged that New York Giants QB Kurt Warner, who is expected to be released in March, has expressed interest in joining the Lions and competing for the starting job. "His agent sent us -- as he did a lot of teams -- the tapes of Kurt, and they're looking for a new home," Mariucci said.

Lions | Keeping Options Open w/ McMahon - from www.KFFL.com
Sat, 12 Feb 2005 09:41:48 -0800

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci said the team would keep an open mind regarding the possible return of QB Mike McMahon, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March. "He's going to be free in about two weeks," Mariucci said. "He's keeping his door open, and we are with him."

Lions | Wanted: A Starting-Caliber Backup QB - from www.KFFL.com
Sat, 12 Feb 2005 09:40:21 -0800

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci said the team intends to search the free agent market this year for a veteran quarterback to assume the backup role or compete with starting QB Joey Harrington next season. "If there is somebody out there that we can sign that's good enough to compete, terrific," Mariucci said. "You're always trying to have the best players you can at every position, and if there's a guy that's good enough to compete with Joey, or beat Joey out or be his backup, that'll all sort out." Mariucci also mentioned that if a high-price veteran were signed, the club would likely have a rookie prospect serve as the third-string quarterback.

ALinChainz

02-18-2005, 03:10 PM

Millen on the media: I'm a firefighter

February 18, 2005

BY SEAN SMYTH
FREE PRESS SPECIAL WRITER

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- When dealing with the news media, Lions president Matt Millen says he's a part-time firefighter.

"In my current role I try to limit access as much as possible," Millen told students and alumni Thursday as part of a panel for the Penn State Center for Sports Journalism.

Millen, a Penn State alumnus, discussed numerous topics, including female reporters in the locker room, Jose Canseco's book and the Lions coaches, saying they need to "pick it up a little bit."

Millen said he's so cautious about the media that he has an intern regularly check Internet message boards and Web sites for rumors. The rumors are "fires I have to put out," he said.

He also called the media "a lot more complicated -- a lot more cutthroat at times." Millen has been criticized during his four-tenure, in which the Lions are 16-48.

Other topics he discussed:

•On the NFL's $250,000 fine against the Lions for not interviewing minority candidates before hiring Steve Mariucci as coach: "There has to be a policy in place, but I think the current one is flawed. I don't know the right answer. As a league we have to do a better job minority hiring. ...

"When it happened, I said, 'Fine me. I don't want to turn it into a circus.' It turned into a circus."

•On the Lions' 6-10 season: "We lost six of our 10 games by six points or less. ... That speaks to our coaching staff. Our coaching staff needs to pick it up a little bit."

•On women in the locker room: "Twenty-five years ago, when you were standing there naked and some woman walked in ... it was more shocking than it is now. There's always going to be issues of credibility, but I'm going to say this: There's going to be issues of credibility with both sexes."

•On tell-all books authored by athletes, such as Canseco's "Juiced": "I'm not a big fan, at all. Unfortunately, there was a book written a few years ago that exposed some" things that happened in the Oakland Raiders' locker room. "The only thing good that came out of it was that someone got paid."

•Asked how far away his alma mater is from having a winning team again: "Penn State is more than a few players away." It drew a nervous laugh from the entire room.

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions18e_20050218.htm

ALinChainz

02-18-2005, 04:16 PM

Lions | Pinner Entering Contract Year - from www.KFFL.com
Fri, 18 Feb 2005 09:54:08 -0800

Detroit Lions RB Artose Pinner is entering the final year of his contract with the Lions. He is set to make $380,000 in base salary for the 2005 season and would become a restricted free agent following the season.

Lions | Bryson Entering Contract Year - from www.KFFL.com
Fri, 18 Feb 2005 09:52:27 -0800

Detroit Lions RB Shawn Bryson is entering the final year of his contract with the Lions. He is set to make $725,000 in base salary for the 2005 season.

Lions | Curry Contract Details - from www.KFFL.com
Fri, 18 Feb 2005 09:52:13 -0800

Updating previous reports, the three-year contract extension Detroit Lions LB Donte' Curry signed at the end of 2004 has base salaries of $540,000 (2005), $750,000 (2006) and $750,000 (2007).

Lions | Hall Contract Details - from www.KFFL.com
Fri, 18 Feb 2005 09:51:58 -0800

Updating previous reports, the five-year contract extension Detroit Lions DE James Hall signed has base salaries of $2.25 million (2005), $2.5 million (2006), $2.75 million (2007) and $3 million (2008).

ALinChainz

02-23-2005, 12:42 PM

Lions ready for shopping spree

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

The preliminaries are out of the way and the Lions -- along with 31 other NFL teams -- are ready to start their spring shopping.

They got a preview of the draft at the college All-Star games last month, and they have thoroughly reviewed the veteran players who will be available as free agents.

The list includes quarterbacks Jeff Garcia, who was officially released by the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday, and Kurt Warner, who lost the New York Giants' starting job to Eli Manning and will be available, too.

With coach Steve Mariucci in the market for a quarterback to push Joey Harrington for the starting job, much speculation has centered on his strong relationship with Garcia when both were at San Francisco in 1999-2002.

Others think Warner, who led St. Louis to two Super Bowls in three seasons, would be a better fit with young big-play receivers Charles Rogers and Roy Williams.

Mariucci and president Matt Millen have been quiet this week, although Mariucci indicated recently that free-agent efforts will be tightly focused in all areas.

"We've got some things to do this off-season," he said. "And it'll get busy in March. I don't think we're going to parade 15 guys around here in free agency. I don't think that's going to be the case.

"I think we're going to be selectively aggressive and go grab a guy or two."

In addition to an experienced quarterback, the Lions are in the market for a strong safety, a guard and -- in all likelihood -- a veteran wide receiver capable of giving them the consistent production they have not received from Tai Streets and Az-Zahir Hakim.

"If we can add another receiver, it's a consideration," Mariucci said.

Former Michigan State star Derrick Mason of Tennessee and Laveranues Coles of Washington would be appealing candidates. Mason led wide receivers with 96 receptions (for 1,168 yards and seven touchdowns) last year. Coles had 90 catches for 950 yards and one touchdown.

But the Lions -- who are seeking a No. 3 receiver -- might not be willing to make the investment necessary to get them.

Teams can begin signing free agents March 2. Although this week's roster cuts give shoppers an early start on the free-agent market, their attention for most of the next week will be on draft candidates who will be participating in the scouting combine that starts today in Indianapolis.

With the No. 10 pick in the draft, the Lions will be selecting later than they have since taking offensive tackle Jeff Backus 18th in 2001.

In 2002, coming off a 2-14 season, they took Joey Harrington with the No. 3 overall pick. In 2003, coming off a 3-13 record, they drafted Rogers at No. 2. And a year ago, after a 5-11 season, they traded down a notch and selected Williams at No. 7.

With the addition of those high picks -- as well as running back Kevin Jones, defensive tackle Shaun Rogers, linebackers Boss Bailey and Teddy Lehman, and defensive end Cory Redding in later rounds -- the Lions don't have the glaring holes they once had. But they won't have trouble finding players who interest them.

On the defensive side, the Lions aren't so strong or deep that they wouldn't be interested in Wisconsin defensive end Erasmus James, Texas outside linebacker Derrick Johnson or Thomas Davis, a Georgia safety who is being touted as a lights-out hitter who might end up at linebacker.

On offense, the Lions probably won't focus on a wide receiver, a running back or a quarterback in the first round, but some already have projected Virginia tight end Heath Miller as a player of interest.

Draft candidates will be given physical examinations, subjected to interviews by representatives of the individual teams and -- if coaches and scouts are lucky -- will even agree to be timed in the 40-yard dash and agility drills.

"Fewer and fewer of the top guys work every year," Mariucci said. "The benefit of the combine -- you're going to have about 320 college prospects, most are draftable and some get left out -- the most important thing is getting their medical done.

"You get some measurables -- height and weight -- and you get some interview time. That's pretty constant. Even the guys that don't work out will sit down and visit with coaches on an interview basis, so you get to know them a little bit."

Instead of being timed and measured on speed and leaping ability at Indianapolis, many of the top athletes will wait to be tested on the pro day at their own college.

NOTEBOOK: Safety Brian Walker, who spent last season on injured reserve after suffering a knee injury in training camp, was released. Walker, 32, started 25 games in the two previous seasons. Wide receiver Tim Van Zant, a rookie from Texas A&M who spent part of the season on the practice squad, also was released. The Lions signed guard Tyrone Hopson, who mostly played on special teams last season.

Warham

02-23-2005, 01:06 PM

I'd rather have Kurt Warner than Jeff Garcia. Stay away from him.

ALinChainz

02-23-2005, 01:07 PM

I think the same.

Given time, Warner can still get it down the field (hoping).

We've had enough of the short passing game shit.

WHOYOUFUCKINJOE

02-23-2005, 01:22 PM

Joe is a simply a cunt. Next question. It's not even that close.

Warham

02-23-2005, 01:43 PM

Huh????

ALinChainz

02-23-2005, 01:49 PM

Joe is a loser and has never had a woman, ignore.

ALinChainz

02-23-2005, 01:51 PM

Wednesday, February 23, 2005

If Lions want to improve, they must find backup to Harrington

By Rob Parker / The Detroit News

DETROIT -- The Lions have a huge decision to make, one that could mean the difference between making the playoffs or failing to reach the postseason for the sixth straight season.

That's why they can't get it wrong. The Lions have to acquire a back-up quarterback who is both good enough to beat out starter Joey Harrington in training camp or be ready to take over and lead this team to the playoffs if Harrington falters four games into the regular season.

The last thing the Lions need is a good-hat-wearing, firm-clipboard-holding quarterback who's around more for show than anything else.

The Lions don't want anything close to Mike McMahon, Rick Mirer or Ty Detmer on the sidelines for the '05 season.

As teams all around NFL America start letting go high-priced talent and free agency begins, Lions president Matt Millen must land a big-timer on the market. The Lions should have interest in Jeff Garcia, Quincy Carter, Kurt Warner and Drew Bledsoe.

Millen didn't return calls on Tuesday, but Lions' Pro Bowl cornerback Dre' Bly said landing the right guy is probably going to be the biggest move in this rebuilding phase, especially if the Lions want to take a step forward this coming season.

"It's a very important decision," Bly said. "It's my third year here. The city wants to see us win. Time is running out."

Normally, picking a back-up quarterback isn't that big of a deal. But in this man's NFL, you are only as good as your back-up QB. For the Lions, it's even more important since this is the make-or-break season for Harrington. "The most important position on the team is the quarterback," Bly said.

While Bly still has confidence in Harrington, entering his fourth season, and hopes that this is finally the season the former Oregon star reaches his full potential, he also knows that the NFL is a results-oriented business. Hence, there must be someone as talented on the roster to pick up where someone else leaves off.

"If we get a proven quarterback and if something happens or it doesn't work out for Joey, we'll still be OK," Bly said. "And we'll still be able to win some games and make a run at the playoffs."

For sure, that's the goal. The Lions who improved to 6-10 last season -- one victory more than the year before -- almost have to make the playoffs for people to believe there has been progress made with this franchise over the last four years.

This past season might have been saved if the Lions had gotten an experienced back-up this past off-season. Instead of making a switch when Harrington struggle midway through the season, the Lions stuck with him. It spoke volumes of the lack of confidence the Lions had in McMahon.

Sadly, there was always a feeling that the Lions didn't want to bring a quality quarterback to camp who could seriously challenge Harrington for the starting job. While that made sense in the first two seasons -- after all, Harrington was supposed to be this team's franchise QB for many years to come -- it doesn't any longer.

The Lions simply must win -- with or without Harrington behind center.

"We need someone who can get the job done," Bly said. "It's no secret."

http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0502/23/G01-98433.htm

JoeTHUNDER'SMAN

02-23-2005, 02:15 PM

Originally posted by WHOYOUFUCKINJOE
Joe is a simply a cunt. Next question. It's not even that close.

STOP EDITING HIS POSTS ALIZ! jOE IS A FABULOUS PIECE OF ASS THAT I USE AS A PLASTIC FUCK DOLL. I WISH HE DID'T CRY SO MUCH THOUGH!

ALinChainz

02-23-2005, 02:22 PM

By Jason Powell / fanball.com

Last month there were reports that the Lions were planning to release quarterback Joey Harrington. The next day, general manager Matt Millen and head coach Steve Mariucci denied those reports. The M&M Boys even went so far as to say that Harrington would return as the starter in 2005. Last week, Millen and Mariucci reversed their stance again by admitting that they would like to find a veteran to compete for a starting job.

So where does Harrington stand with the Lions? Is he on his way out of town? Will he be the starter? Will he open the season with a clipboard in hand?

At this point, we believe he will be with the organization, although his starting status is up in the air at this point, just as it should be. Sure, he threw two more touchdown passes and 10 fewer interceptions last season than he did in 2003, but he was still one of the least consistent signal callers in the league.

Beyond Harrington, the Lions showed some signs of life last season due to the strong early-season play of rookie wide receiver Roy Williams, and the great second-half performance by rookie running back Kevin Jones. Third-year receiver Charles Rogers will make yet another attempt at surviving at least a half-season without breaking his collarbone. If the three playmakers can stay healthy, Harrington will have plenty of weapons to work with.

Needs
Detroit is in the hunt for a quarterback. As previously noted, no one is sure whether the person the Lions sign will get an honest shot to unseat Harrington for the starting job, but one can only hope so. Among the possible candidates the Lions will consider are Jeff Garcia, Drew Bledsoe, Kelly Holcomb, and Vinny Testaverde.

The most obvious answer would be Garcia, who played under Mariucci in San Francisco for three seasons. Oh, and it's probably not a coincidence that Mooch changed his tune on Harrington's starting status less than 72 hours after the Browns announced their decision to release Garcia. Actually, the Lions are also looking for a No. 3 quarterback, but that void could just as easily be filled with a draft pick as it could via free agency.

The Kitties might also be in the market for receiver depth either via free agency or in the draft. In addition to backup wideout Tai Streets being a free agent, Detroit might elect to release Az-Zahir Hakim, who will carry a $4 million salary cap number in 2005. Of course, the risk of losing Hakim and Streets is that injuries have prevented Rogers from playing in all but six games over the last two seasons.

Help could be on the way for the offensive line, particularly at guard. The bad news is that there is some question as to whether the team will meet the asking prices of free agents Dominic Raiola (center) and Stockar McDougle (tackle). The Lions have the money to replace either player via free agency, but there is something to be said for continuity.

There are rumors that the Lions might release free safety Brock Marion. The 13-year veteran did not live up to expectations last season and the general consensus is that he no longer has the speed to be as effective as he once was. Either way, look for the Lions to upgrade at safety during the offseason.

Kick return ace Eddie Drummond is a restricted free agent. He is free to sign with other teams, but the Lions have the right to match or pass on the offer. The Pro Bowl special teams player scored four touchdowns last season, including two punt returns for scores in the same quarter.

Salary Cap Situation
We have been unable to find a solid estimate on the Lions' exact salary cap figure, although it is widely assumed that they are well under the cap. However, Millen has indicated that he does not intend to break the bank during the free agency period.

Unrestricted Free Agents
QB Mike McMahon, QB Rick Mirer, WR Tai Streets, TE Stephen Alexander, C Dominic Raiola, G Tyrone Hopson, T Stockar McDougle, DT Marcus Bell, DT Kelvin Pritchett, LB Will Rainer, LB Donte Curry, LB Jody Littlejohn, CB Danion Sidney, S Bracy Walker, P Nick Harris.

Restricted Free Agents
WR Eddie Drummond, TE Casey Fitzsimmons, T Victor Rogers, CB Andre Goodman, CB Chris Cash.

The Draft
The Lions will likely address their defensive line issues with their No. 10 overall pick. The most likely candidate is LSU defensive end Marcus Spears. Other defensive lineman projected to be selected around the same time the Lions pick are defensive tackle Travis Johnson (Florida State) and defensive end Shawne Merriman (Maryland).

There has been some speculation that the Lions will select Virginia tight end Heath Miller in the first round. Then again, some draft experts don't believe Miller will be selected within the top-20 picks, let alone with the No. 10 overall pick. Miller would be an upgrade over the Lions' assortment of tight ends, but it's hard to imagine the team selecting another offensive player in the first round after they used a pair of first-round picks last season.

Detroit could conceivably trade down a few spots in the first round, especially if they take a liking to safety Brodney Pool, who is projected as a mid-first-round pick.

Injury Watch
Williams is on the mend from offseason ankle surgery and will miss the team's first offseason workout at the end of April. However, he is expected to make a full recovery long before training camp opens... Rogers is on pace to make a full return from his broken collarbone and should be ready for the team's first minicamp in May. Of course, fantasy owners who bought into that line last year remember all too well that he didn't even survive the first regular season without suffering a season-ending injury… Tight end Stephen Alexander had offseason ankle surgery. What? Alexander suffered another injury? Knock us over with a feather… Linebacker Boss Bailey missed all of 2004 after undergoing right knee surgery during training camp. He will not need further surgery, although a timetable has not been established for his return.

ALinChainz

02-25-2005, 04:16 PM

Harrington getting more responsibility

New Lions offensive aide looking for more big plays

February 25, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

INDIANAPOLIS -- Changes are in the works for Lions quarterback Joey Harrington.

And they involve more than the efforts by team president Matt Millen and coach Steve Mariucci to find a veteran backup to push him for the starting job.

A month into his job as offensive coordinator, Ted Tollner is working on the offensive adjustments that Mariucci hinted might be in line after a 6-10 season.

And if they carry through, Harrington will have more freedom to throw the ball downfield and have more responsibility for adjusting plays at the line of scrimmage than he had in his first three years in the West Coast offense.

"What we are going to try to do is a variety of things to try to help him," Tollner said Thursday at the NFL draft scouting combine. "No. 1, give him more opportunities to throw the ball down the field, to make that chunk 20-yard play, be willing to work on that and make the calls in the game. And then he's got to make that throw.

"You've got to make those plays on first and second downs. We're trying to expand and give him more opportunities on those downs to make those plays."

The offense often failed to gain many yards on first and second downs, leaving the Lions in long-yardage situations on third down.

"We're going to try to give ourselves an edge by expanding on our shifting from one formation to another formation, to put the defense a little bit in doubt so there's some movement," Tollner said. "We're not going to be a St. Louis Rams team, but we're going to add to that.

"We're going to try to expand to some degree on asking him to make some calls on the line of scrimmage so that on those first and second downs, if they want to gang up on the run, we'll have an alternate pass to go to. If they want to play the pass situation, then an alternate run."

In that scenario, Harrington might get "two or maybe even three plays to choose from," Tollner said.

But just as important as the play calls will be the ability of Harrington and his supporting cast to turn the calls into meaningful gains.

"We need just to get better at what was being done last year," Tollner said. "As you look at it, it wasn't so much that there wasn't a play there. It just wasn't made.

"It isn't just Joey. It could be a combination of: 'Did he have enough time from the protection? Did they catch the football? Did he make the right decision? Was he accurate?' You add all those things up, and you only need to make two or three more plays a game sometimes to win those close games.

"So it's not like we're talking some major deal. I think it's a finer line if you have young, quality players from a 6-10 to a 10-6. I think that line's a hell of a lot finer than it sounds."

Although Harrington had career bests with a 56 percent completion mark, 19 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 77.5 passer rating last season, Mariucci was not satisfied with his production.

As a result, one of the Lions' top priorities in free agency is finding a quarterback capable of handling the backup role and pushing Harrington for the starting job.

Jeff Garcia, who played for Mariucci at San Francisco, is considered a top candidate after being released this week by the Cleveland Browns. Kurt Warner, who led St. Louis to two Super Bowls in three years, is also considered a candidate. He is expected to void his contract with the Giants next week.

In the meantime, Tollner is proceeding with plans under the assumption that Harrington will be the starter. They have talked by telephone and Harrington apparently liked the changes.

"I told him we can only take it as far as the whole offense is capable of, so we're going to start off by not going overboard," Tollner said. "We're not going to be the Indianapolis Colts, where you're making checks all the time, but we're going to start the process of giving our offense the ability to make some decisions on the line.

"To me, it's not going to be a major deal but a complement to what we're doing. He liked the fact we talked about improving our play-action pass game. Those are such general things, but he was very receptive to those general emphasis areas."

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions25e_20050225.htm

ALinChainz

02-27-2005, 06:06 PM

Report: Lions re-sign C Raiola

February 27, 2005

BRISTOL, Conncticut (Ticker) - It appears center Dominic Raiola, who has started 48 games over the last three seasons with the Detroit Lions, will continue to man the middle for them.

ESPN is reporting that Raiola has agreed to a five-year contract worth $17.5 million with the Lions.

Raiola, 26, and right tackle Stockar McDougle are two starters on the Lions' offensive line eligible to become unrestricted free agents on Wednesday, March 2.

Re-signing one of them was a priority for the Lions before the start of the free agency signing period.

A second-round pick out of Nebraska in 2001, Raiola played primarily on special teams as a rookie before becoming the starter in 2002.

ALinChainz

02-28-2005, 11:18 AM

Lions: Millen talking trade for Darius

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com

Monday, February 28, 2005

News

Lions' general manager Matt Millen admitted Saturday that he has approached the Jaguars regarding the possibility of acquiring safety Donovin Darius via trade. Although Jags' general manager James "Shack" Harris placed the franchise tag on Darius last week, he is still listening to trade offers. However, Millen said there is one problem. "Shack wants your firstborn (child)," Millen told the Detroit Free Press. Darius finished last season with 87 tackles and five interceptions.

Views

Millen has not been willing to give up the high draft pick that Harris wants in return for Darius. Lions' officials were not happy with the play of their safeties last season, so we probably haven't heard the last of these trade rumors.

ALinChainz

02-28-2005, 11:27 AM

Lions keep the old, seek the new

Detroit agrees with Raiola, Walker and keeps searching for a Harrington backup.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Lions didn't neglect the home front when they came to the Combine to test and probe this year's draft-class prospects.

They worked to re-sign some of their key veterans and made plans for when the free-agent signing period starts Wednesday. Evaluating the rookies did not get pushed aside. Deadlines and schedules forced all teams to work on the veterans, too.

The Lions kept two of their veterans from testing the free-agent market. Center Dominic Raiola and safety Bracy Walker agreed to contracts over the weekend.

A primary goal for the Lions in free agency is to sign a quarterback as the backup -- at least -- to starter Joey Harrington. The field of quality candidates got slimmer Sunday when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers agreed to terms with Brian Griese on a restructured contract.

Jeff Garcia and Kurt Warner remain the top two quarterback options for the Lions. They have different styles but share a similar situation. They both need a job.

Garcia was released by Cleveland earlier in the week and can sign at any time. Warner will void his contract after one season with the Giants and become a free agent Wednesday.

Lions president Matt Millen doesn't expect a long courtship in the game of musical chairs for the quarterbacks.

"The Minute Waltz" will be more fitting than "The Unfinished Symphony," but there are indications that Garcia and agent Stephen Baker don't expect to conclude the process until the end of the week.

"The music's going to stop pretty quick," Millen said Sunday. "There are two sides to it. We're looking and they're looking. We've just got to be smart about it."

Garcia was in Indianapolis over the weekend. He had a physical and met with coach Steve Mariucci, Millen and other members of the franchise.

Garcia also met with other teams.

The fact that Garcia played for Mariucci in San Francisco and made the Pro Bowl three straight years (2000-02) makes him a logical choice to wind up in Detroit, but there are no guarantees with any quarterback.

"There are things he does that are good," Millen said. "Then there are some concerns."

The Lions will move as cautiously as possible, given the time frame under which they are working. Other teams want to add veteran quarterbacks, too, and the pickings are slim behind Warner and Garcia.

While the pieces of the quarterback puzzle are still being put together, here are some issues facing the Lions:

Veteran free agents: They kept five potential free agents off the market. Before the end of the 2004 season, defensive tackle Shaun Rogers, linebacker Donte Curry and punter Nick Harris re-signed.

Raiola reportedly has agreed to a five-year, $17 million deal that included a $4.6 million signing bonus. Walker's signed for one year.

The Lions now have three offensive-line starters from 2005 under contract -- right guard Damien Woody, left tackle Jeff Backus and Raiola. The unit became more adept at running and blocking last season.

Raiola, drafted on the second round in 2001, is a three-year starter. He relies on quickness. He has trouble with big, strong nose tackles but can overcome it with his athleticism.

"He's smart," Millen said. "He controls everything up front. We can use him on the edge. He gets to the second level fine. He's got some things he's got to do better."

Right tackle Stockar McDougle will be a free agent Wednesday, and it is unlikely that he will return, given his salary expectations. Victor Rogers and Kelly Butler, young players with minimal experience, will compete at right tackle.

The Lions will tender three restricted free agents -- return specialist Eddie Drummond and cornerbacks Andre' Goodman and Chris Cash -- to retain their services, Millen said.

Look for the Lions to fill holes at left guard and wide receiver in free agency. If that fails, they'll use the draft.

A prime receiver such as Derrick Mason, a former Michigan State player released last week by the Titans, would be attractive. A more likely candidate is a player like Joey Galloway of Tampa Bay. Galloway has speed and is used to being a third receiver.

Combine workouts: The Lions and other teams were encouraged that more prospects than usual took part in the tests here. Quarterback Matt Jones of Arkansas was timed in at 4.40 seconds for the 40-yard dash Sunday. It is believed to be the fastest time ever run by a quarterback at the Combine.

Wide receiver Mike Williams of Southern Cal said Saturday that he would skip the 40 and run at his pro-day workout in California but changed his mind and ran Sunday. Williams' two unofficial times of 4.59 and 4.61 were acceptable for a receiver in the 230-pound range.

http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0502/28/E01-102614.htm

ALinChainz

03-01-2005, 01:25 PM

Lions: Muhammad was targeted, Mason next

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com
Tuesday, March 1, 2005

News
The Lions were a surprising player for the services of wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad before he signed with the Bears. The Chicago Tribune reports that the Lions were among the teams that made an attempt to sign the Pro Bowl receiver. With Muhammad off the market, the Lions have shifted their focus toward Derrick Mason.

Views
The interest in top free agent wide receivers is proof that Lions' officials have lost faith in wide receiver Charles Rogers, whose broken collarbone has forced him to miss all but six games since he was selected with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2003 draft. Of course, what Lions' officials fail to acknowledge is that their real problem is quarterback Joey Harrington, who has been a flop since he was selected in the first-round of the 2002 draft.

Warham

03-01-2005, 05:17 PM

I wouldn't be harsh enough to call Harrington a flop.

He had 19 TD and 12 INT's last year, hardly the numbers for a flop. Of course Lions fans were pissed much of the year with his play, but if those are numbers of a flop, I can't wait to see what his numbers look like if he actually 'produced'.

Would he have 38 TD and 6 INT's? :D

ALinChainz

03-05-2005, 02:12 PM

Slow Moving Lions Have Work To Do In Free Agency

Mike Fowler - Scout.com

March 4, 2005 at 4:11pm ET

ALLEN PARK - A trip to the NFL owner's meetings and to the University of Miami's pro day have kept Lions president Matt Millen and C.O.O. Tom Lewand out of the Allen Park headquarters during the start of free agency.

Three days into the NFL's annual shopping spree, the Lions seemingly have been content to let the big rush die down before going shopping for players to fill some of the teams most glaring needs.

All signs point toward the Lions finally diving into the market this weekend. Denver safety Kenoy Kennedy , the subject of several unsubstantiated reports, will visit Detroit on Friday and take a tour of the Lions' Allen Park facilities and likely Ford Field in downtown Detroit.

Kennedy's agent, Vann McElroy, confirmed that he is in the process of arranging a visit to Detroit. The Lions are among the front runners for Kennedy's services. At 6-foot-1, 215 pounds, he is a physical presence in the middle of a secondary and many observers felt that he outplayed fellow Denver safety, the more highly touted John Lynch .

Former New York Giants quarterback Kurt Warner and Tampa Bay Buccaneers backup Brad Johnson are also expected to visit the Lions either this weekend or early next week.

Detroit was expected to host former Packers guard Marco Rivera , but that went by the wayside when he signed with the Dallas Cowboys . Green Bay also lost guard Mike Wahle , a player Detroit likely would have had interest in, after he agreed to terms with the Carolina Panthers .

If Detroit is able to sign Kennedy, that would greatly relieve their problems in the secondary and allow them to address their offensive line needs. With veteran Stockar McDougle testing the market, the Lions may need to acquire replacements for two starting offensive line positions.

Some feel that former seventh round pick (2002) Victor Rogers or rookie sixth round pick (2004) Kelly Butler could step in and fill those positions, but that seems like a stretch considering neither has had substantial playing time. Does Detroit really want to risk stalling their fledgling running attack by starting an untested player at such a key position?

Detroit is unlikely to pay what former Ohio State standout and St. Louis Rams superstar Orlando Pace would command on the open market and with the next best player available, tackle Jonas Jennings signing with the San Francisco 49ers , the talent available at that position is thinning.

While former 49ers and Browns quarterback Jeff Garcia seems to be the best fit for Detroit's offense, reports have Garcia getting closer to an agreement with the Denver Broncos , at the urging of former 49ers head coach Bill Walsh.

The jury is still out on how the 2005 free agency period will turn out for the Lions. There may still be some good bargains when the Lions get around to shopping for them, but with around $20 million in cap space to play with, it's easy to wonder why a team that hasn't seen .500 in four seasons didn't come out more aggressively to fill some of their needs.

ALinChainz

03-07-2005, 08:53 PM

Lions sign free agents Kennedy, Pollard

March 7, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- Kenoy Kennedy made it as far as the gate at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. The Detroit Lions are just glad he didn't get on the plane.

The safety was about to board a flight to Miami to continue his free-agent tour Monday, but had second thoughts. He returned to the Lions' practice facility and signed a contract while the team was introducing another new player -- tight end Marcus Pollard.

``They were calling my name and saying that I had to get on the plane or I was going to get left behind,'' Kennedy said. ``I told them to go ahead and leave me. I decided I wanted to be a Lion.''

Kennedy has played his entire five-year career with the Denver Broncos. He is best known as a hard hitter, and has earned the wrath of the NFL for illegal hits.

He was suspended for one game in 2002 for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Miami's Chris Chambers, and has been fined for similar plays at least three other times.

``I think I bring a presence,'' he said. ``Receivers are looking for me, and they might develop alligator arms.''

Kennedy has five career sacks and four interceptions.

``I think we got better today, and Kenoy is a big part of that,'' Lions coach Steve Mariucci said.

In the first of their back-to-back press conferences Monday evening, the Lions brought out Pollard, who caught six of Peyton Manning's record 49 touchdown passes last season.

``Until a couple weeks ago, we didn't even expect that Marcus would be available, so we feel very good about adding him to the roster,'' team president Matt Millen said. ``He brings experience, an understanding of how to win, and some great hands.''

Pollard, 33, spent his first 10 seasons with Indianapolis. Last season, as one of the last options in Manning's attack, he caught 29 passes for 309 yards and six touchdowns. He missed three games with leg injuries.

``The Colts felt that they had other players who were ready to play tight end, so they let me go,'' he said. ``That's made for a couple exciting weeks, but I'm glad I'm here and I'm looking forward to help take this team to the next level.''

Like Kennedy, Pollard had interest from other teams. But his wife, Amani, made the decision easier. She went to high school in the Detroit suburb of Farmington.

Warham

03-07-2005, 08:56 PM

Sounds like two good signings.

ALinChainz

03-07-2005, 09:00 PM

I for one like them a lot.

Huge needs on this team.

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 03:03 PM

Philadelphia signs former Lion back-up Mike McMahon to COMPETE for the #2 behind McNabb, reuniting him with Marty Moerninweg (sp?).

Good athlete, bad QB. 44% career passer.

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 05:30 PM

Lions: Garcia and Mariucci reunited

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com

Saturday, March 12, 2005

News

Free agent quarterback Jeff Garcia agreed to contractual terms with the Lions on Saturday, according to an ESPN News report. The length and financial aspects of the deal have not been disclosed. Garcia will enter training camp as the No. 2 quarterback on the depth chart behind starter Joey Harrington. The 35 year-old signal caller passed on contract offers from the Broncos and Seahawks before reuniting with Lions' head coach Steve Mariucci, who coached Garcia for four seasons in San Francisco.

Views

This is the move everyone expected Garcia to make after the Browns released him last month. However, there were rumors that Lions' general manager Matt Millen wasn't sold on Garcia's arm strength, which might explain why Jeff negotiated with the Broncos and Seahawks before finally signing with Detroit. The pressure is on for Harrington, who has struggled since the Lions selected him with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2002 draft. Fantasy owners should keep a close eye on this training camp battle, as the winner will have good receiving weapons in Roy Williams, Charles Rogers, and Marcus Pollard to work with, and a strong running game that's fueled by second-year tailback Kevin Jones.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 05:52 PM

I just don't like the Garcia signing...I don't think he's that good...and if Harrington struggles...you are going to be hearing calls for this guy...

I'd honestly rather have McMahon...

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 05:56 PM

Not McMahon ... at least Garcia would know the system. I couldn't wait for McMahon to go from day one.

I would have rather had Johnson of the 2, but best case scenario, he doesn't play and Joey doesn't falter.

Gotta go with that, and besides, I read earlier than Shawn King was thinking about Detroit as a possibility for him. Can't have that either.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 06:03 PM

Look...Al...have you watched Garcia the past 2 years?

He's dreadful...just dreadful...and mistake prone...

He's not any better...and probably worse than some of those guys you just mentioned...

weak arm...can't really move well anymore...

no real leadership qualities...

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 06:15 PM

Oh he sucks bro ... nooooooooo question .... wasn't liking it, but can't undo it and gotta go with it.

Wanted Warner, then Johnson ... the bright spot HAS to be his knowledge of Mooch's system and the Lions could have the other skill players to help around him, like Joey really.

He's just there to push him supposively. I hope he doesn't play a down. STILL better than McMike to.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 06:18 PM

I disagree...maybe better in that you don't hate him as much...but talent wise...at this stage of his over career...He's a lot like McMike...and can't run...

the ONLY plus...is that he knew the offense...

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 06:25 PM

I know it isn't great, but at least now we move on to maybe signing DeMulling from Indy at guard, and use that #10 wisely in the draft, we are a breath away, and fewer injuries away from a good team.

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 06:27 PM

And I still have to like Garcia in a late game, pressure type, time management thing better than McMike.

I wouldn't be surprised if he's #3 in Philly behind Detmer.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 06:36 PM

If Garcia is in a late game...

you can say you'll like him...but try and fast forward to that moment...when Garcia walks into the game...2 minutes left in the game...the playoffs on the line...

I'm betting bottom dollar, "I like" isn't going to be part of the equation...

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 06:37 PM

Take McMahon out of the equation...

I can't believe I'm going to say this...but I'd rather have Overrated Maddox...than Garcia...

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 06:40 PM

Hell, I wouldnt mind that even. He seemed to go downfield to Burress and Ward when he was in, we need that.

Need Rogers to stay healthy and picking up Pollard was a good one for us.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 06:45 PM

Pollard was big...no doubt...

I like Maddox off the bench...the same spark he tries to bring to all games...and doesn't translate...

does translate in late inning pitches...and brief starting opps...

Warham

03-12-2005, 07:02 PM

I'm rooting for Harrington to fulfill that #3 pick in the draft. I think he can do it.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 07:06 PM

That would be the optimum here War...

I think he can fulfill that #3 pick...as long as his fellow high pics stay healthy...

I think we all can agree that Harrington isn't going to carry this club...

but Detroit has made a bunch of good moves...

this may be the year..they make a big freakin' jump...

Warham

03-12-2005, 07:10 PM

Shit, I thought they could have went 8-8 last year. So many fucking close games, and injuries didn't help.

I think at least 9-7 this year is very makeable if everyone stays healthy.

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 07:18 PM

Thing is War...

I know you are publically thinking 9-7...

but I think Detroit could do much...much better than that if they are healthy...

Warham

03-12-2005, 07:29 PM

I don't want to get too greedy now, Pojo. :D

POJO_Risin

03-12-2005, 08:05 PM

15-1???

I said 9-7 last year...before the season started with this caveat...

I would change it if Ben became starter for the Steelers...

lmfao...I'm not prophetic often...

but that was 1 I don't mind talkin' about...

won't have that next year though...My steelers are doin' enough...

Warham

03-12-2005, 08:49 PM

I do like what the Lions have done in the offseason, even if I'm not too keen on Garcia.

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 09:45 PM

Pretty sure we lost like 6 or 7 games by a TD or less, and we had leads vs GB and Minny in the 4th qtr of those games.

Health is the biggest issue.

Warham

03-12-2005, 09:48 PM

Charles Rogers is my biggest concern by far. If we can get TWO good receivers, we'll be that much better.

ALinChainz

03-12-2005, 09:53 PM

Dude, if Rogers can stay healthy ... look out.

POJO_Risin

03-13-2005, 04:41 PM

IMO...he doesn't have to stay healthy to look out...they just need Jones to stay healthy...RW to stay healthy...

Harrington not to bite them in the ass by making costly mistakes...

Pollard to be the old Pollard...not just old...

and the D to stay healthy...

If Rogers is healthy...the go from a good team...to a great one...

and IMO...they just have to stay the course...

ALinChainz

03-14-2005, 07:29 PM

Just sometimes you find yourself thinking, "that could be Andre Johnson over there opposite Roy ... "

Health will always be the big issure, but it is for everyone. Just seemed to be cursed lately.

ALinChainz

03-14-2005, 07:31 PM

Garcia says he's ready for backup role -- and will be ready to start

March 14, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- Though Jeff Garcia believes still he can be a successful starter in the NFL, he has accepted his new role as the Lions' backup quarterback.

``I'm not there to create any friction, I'm not there to create any controversy,'' Garcia said in a conference call Monday, two days after agreeing to a one-year, $2 million deal. ``I'm just there to add strength to the position.''

Coach Steve Mariucci, who coached Garcia for four years in San Francisco, was adamant that Joey Harrington will be Detroit's starting quarterback when the season begins in September.

Before signing the 35-year-old Garcia, the Lions targeted a group of veterans that included Garcia, former NFL MVP Kurt Warner and Brad Johnson. Warner signed with Arizona, leaving the door open for Garcia to choose the Lions over Seattle and Denver.

Mariucci said Garcia's age isn't a concern, comparing him to Steve Young, who also played for Mariucci in San Francisco.

``(Veteran quarterbacks) aren't thinking retirement, they're not thinking old age, they're thinking about getting better and that's what makes these guys tick and keeps them motivated,'' Mariucci said.

During his five years with the 49ers, Garcia threw for 16,408 yards and 113 touchdowns and was a Pro Bowl selection three straight times from 2000-2002.

Garcia then signed with Cleveland last year. He started 10 of 11 games before ending the season on injured reserve. The Browns released him last month.

Despite coming as the backup, Garcia said he will be ready to start if the situation arises.

``It's hard to swallow that I'm not coming into a situation where I'm at least able to compete or to be that guy (that starts),'' Garcia said. ``But it's something that is reality right now and something that I will have to accept.''

Warham

03-14-2005, 08:51 PM

35 years old...yeesh.

ALinChainz

03-15-2005, 11:26 PM

Let's hope he doesn't play.

ALinChainz

03-15-2005, 11:27 PM

Lions make Holland linebackers coach

March 15, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions elevated Johnny Holland to linebackers coach Tuesday and hired Phil Snow as a defensive assistant.

Holland replaces Richard Smith, hired earlier this month as the Miami Dolphins' defensive coordinator. Snow will fill the position Holland has held for the last two seasons.

Before joining the Lions, Holland spent three seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, first as assistant special teams/assistant strength and conditioning coach (2000), then as linebackers coach (2001-02). He coached in Green Bay from 1995-99.

Snow spent the past two seasons with the Washington Huskies, the last as defensive coordinator.

Warham

03-15-2005, 11:37 PM

I'm still wincing from the Garcia signing. :D

ALinChainz

03-15-2005, 11:41 PM

I know ... not my first choice either ... just hoping he serves as the extended coach due to his years under Mooch. He did go to 3 Pro Bowls under him, but his playing days are over in my opinion.

Best case scenario, he plays what other #2's do ... mop up.

ALinChainz

03-16-2005, 07:46 PM

Lions sign OG DeMulling

March 16, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions signed offensive guard Rick DeMulling to a two-year contract Wednesday.

The team did not release details of the deal.

DeMulling, who started 41 games for the Indianapolis Colts over three seasons, will be plugged in as a starter along with guard Damien Woody, tackle Jeff Backus and center Dominic Raiola.

Detroit still has to add a tackle -- in the draft or free agency -- to replace Stockar McDougle, who signed with the Miami Dolphins on Tuesday.

Indianapolis drafted the 6-foot-4, 304-pound DeMulling in the seventh round of the 2001 draft.

The Baltimore Ravens pursued DeMulling, but decided he was too expensive. DeMulling also visited the Buffalo Bills after the Colts released him this month to help clear salary-cap space.

ALinChainz

03-24-2005, 12:14 PM

LIONS NOTEBOOK: Millen: Lions will field one of the faster teams

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

For the first time since Matt Millen was hired as the Lions president four years ago, he will not go into the NFL draft frantic to fill at least one glaring hole in the lineup.

And, although he knows there are positions that need to be stronger and deeper, Millen likes the new feeling.

"I think right now we're in pretty solid shape," Millen said Wednesday, in a teleconference from Maui, where he is attending the NFL owners meetings. "I don't think we're exceptional but I think if you take a step back and look at the big picture, this is where we're at:

"We have increased our team speed to the point where we're one of the faster teams in the league, offensively and defensively.

"I think we've increased our talent level, our skill level. Three years ago we were all sitting around talking about, 'We have to increase our skill level.' We've done that.

"We have people who can make plays. We've gotten to the point where, schematically, we're on the other side of the learning curve. I think our coaches know what our players are capable of, I think our players know what our coaches want, so I'm pretty comfortable with where we are in that regard."

In four years of drafting, Millen has filled numerous holes with offensive tackle Jeff Backus, center Dominic Raiola, defensive tackle Shaun Rogers, wide receivers Charles Rogers and Roy Williams, linebackers Boss Bailey and Teddy Lehman and defensive end Cory Redding and, although he has struggled, the team believes quarterback Joey Harrington can be effective.

In addition, the Lions have shopped wisely in the last three free-agent markets, landing Pro Bowl cornerback Dre' Bly, offensive guard Damien Woody and -- in the past month -- safety Kenoy Kennedy, tight end Marcus Pollard, offensive guard Rick DeMulling and backup quarterback Jeff Garcia.

So far, however, the results on the field haven't matched their draft and free agent-signing reviews. They have won 16 games in the past four years, with records of 2-14, 2-13, 5-11 and 6-10.

"What I'm not comfortable in, is that we haven't been consistent," Millen said. "And that's the whole key. If we can do that, I'm excited about it. That's going to be the whole thing.

"Of course, right now, this is the time of year when everybody's excited about what they have.

"You start looking at stuff on paper and starting seeing where you came from to where you're at, and OK, you feel pretty good about it. Everybody feels the same way right now. We've just got to go do it."

With the signing of Kennedy, Pollard, DeMulling and Garcia, the Lions filled key positions. They are still hoping to land free agent wide receiver Cory Bradford and Millen will be watching the June 1 cuts for players released for salary cap reasons.

Most of the focus now, however, will be on preparing for the draft April 23-24 and any number of scenarios that might play out on draft day.

The Lions could draft a tackle to replace Stockar McDougle, who was signed by the Miami Dolphins. They could draft another linebacker, a tight end or -- if they don't get Bradford -- even another wide receiver. With no glaring need to be filled, they could make a legitimate case for drafting the best player available.

"I think we'll consider everything," Millen said, "because I think we're at that point right now where we don't really have to have any one thing, and I want playmakers. If there's a playmaker sitting there and he's a receiver, I think we'd consider him."

NOTEBOOK: Defensive tackle Marcus Bell, who played a valuable role in the defensive line rotation last year, has agreed to terms on a new three-year contract. Bell, who played three years at Arizona and was claimed by the Lions when the Cardinals waived him last June, played in all 16 games, had 27 tackles, two sacks and forced a fumble. ... . The Lions have gotten good reports on three players recovering from injury or surgery -- Williams (ankle surgery), Rogers (broken collarbone) and Bailey (knee surgery). Millen said all three were in various stages of rehab work and appeared to be on schedule to play next season. ... Although some teams reportedly were disappointed in wide receiver Braylon Edwards' workout times at the Michigan pro day last week, Millen was not. "He's the whole game," Millen said. "However somebody thought Braylon worked out -- some thought great, some thought just average -- who cares? The guy's a player. Whoever he gets drafted by, they'll be very pleased with him." ... Free agent tight end Stephen Alexander signed a three-year contract with the Broncos for $4.2 million and a $1 million in bonuses.

ALinChainz

03-24-2005, 01:19 PM

Lions to wear black jerseys for two games

March 24, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Expect the Lions to have a Raiders-like look at times next fall.

For two home games -- to be determined after the schedule is revealed next month -- the Lions will wear black jerseys instead of their usual Honolulu blue and silver.

"I just think it looks great," Lions president Matt Millen said Wednesday. "You're allowed to have that jersey. We've got the blue-and-silver and white, and we added just that little piping of black. I think it looks great."

The new jersey is expected to be black with the numbers in blue, outlined in white.

The Lions did not unveil a prototype; that is expected late next month near the NFL draft. In fact, Millen's comment, made on a teleconference from Maui, site of the owners meetings, does not constitute the team's official announcement.

With the addition of the black jerseys, the Lions will have four at their disposal -- their blue home jerseys, their white road jerseys, the throwback jerseys they wear for Thanksgiving Day and the new Raiders-inspired look.

The Lions added black trim to their uniforms in 2003 but decided to carry the look a step farther with a black jersey similar to the style Millen wore during his first nine NFL seasons, when he played with the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders.

The Lions aren't saying the new look is tied to Millen's days with the Raiders, but he has strong feelings for the Raiders mentality.

"It's just one of those things," Millen said, chuckling. "It looks great and it has a good feel, kind of makes me feel at home a little bit."

Freep Story (http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions24e_20050324.htm)

ALinChainz

04-01-2005, 11:49 AM

Lions sign backup running back White

FREE PRESS STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES

The Lions signed free agent running back Jamel White, the team announced Thursday. Terms of the deal were not released.

White, 5-feet-9, 208 pounds, has rushed for 1,406 yards on 376 carries in five seasons. He also has 170 receptions.

White, 27, will likely compete for a third-string or special-teams role in Detroit.

An undrafted free agent in 2000 out of South Dakota, White eventually ended up with the Cleveland Browns and played four seasons as a backup tailback and kickoff returner.

He was cut before the 2004 season.

After a short stint with Miami, White signed with the Baltimore Ravens early last season after starter Jamal Lewis was suspended and third-string back Musa Smith suffered a season-ending injury. White ran 27 times for 82 yards in 13 games.

The Lions also waived running back Ken Simonton.

ALinChainz

04-06-2005, 05:36 PM

Lions re-sign Cash; 49ers lineman to visit today

April 6, 2005

Restricted free agent cornerback Chris Cash re-signed with the Lions, the team announced Tuesday. Terms were not released.

He had 25 tackles and one interception in 11 games last season.

In his rookie season in 2002, Cash finished second on the team in tackles with 117 and started 12 of 16 games. The Lions drafted Cash in the sixth round out of Southern California. He won a starting job in the exhibition season of 2003, but he suffered two torn ligaments in his left knee in an exhibition game against Cleveland. He missed the entire season.

The Lions are bringing in Kyle Kosier, a restricted free agent offensive lineman, today for a visit and a physical, the San Francisco Chronicle is reporting. Kosier, a three-year veteran for the 49ers, played under coach Steve Mariucci at San Francisco in 2002. Kosier, 27, started nine games at left tackle and seven at right guard for the 49ers last season. He can also play right tackle. Because he is a restricted free agent, the 49ers have a right to match any offer.

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/metro6e_20050406.htm

Warham

04-06-2005, 06:12 PM

I'm really looking forward to this coming year. It should be interesting with all the signings.

ALinChainz

04-06-2005, 06:15 PM

As it stands, they may take OL Alex Barron from Florida State at number 10, but if they sign this SF OL to a deal, that could change things definitely.

Counting the days until the draft myself.

Warham

04-06-2005, 10:49 PM

I'm still not crazy about Garcia...hell, I'm not even lukewarm.

ALinChainz

04-06-2005, 11:30 PM

Me neither, although most so called "experts" think it was a good move. He took a pretty big beating last season. I don't want to see the scenario where we need him in there.

Hopefully it serves it's purpose and pushes Harrington to excel.

ALinChainz

04-08-2005, 12:03 AM

TE - not QB - Alex Smith to visit Lions nfl

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

The rumors are true: Alex Smith is scheduled to visit the Lions.

Contrary to the Wednesday rumors, however, it is tight end Alex Smith of Stanford -- not quarterback Alex Smith from Utah -- who is expected to meet with Lions coaches in Allen Park this week.

Alex Smith, the quarterback, is expected to be one of the first five players taken in the NFL draft April 23. Some are projecting him as the No. 1 pick.

The Lions -- with Joey Harrington and Jeff Garcia set as the top two quarterbacks -- are not expected to take a quarterback in the early rounds of the draft, so the rumors of a meeting with Alex Smith, the quarterback, were puzzling.

Stanford's Alex Smith is one of two tight ends considered worthy of being drafted in the first two rounds of the draft.

The interest in Smith, the tight end, is more logical. They recently signed 10-year veteran tight end Marcus Pollard but he is 33, and is the fourth starting tight end in as many years. By drafting Smith or Heath Miller of Virginia, the Lions would have a long-term solution to the position.

It is common for teams to arrange visits for players they would consider drafting. The Lions are currently in that process.

They have not yet landed a wide receiver in free agency and there are indications they might be looking to fill that position in the early rounds.

They met Wednesday with Mark Clayton of Oklahoma and Troy Williamson of South Carolina -- both first-round prospects -- and Mike Williams of USC reportedly will visit sometime within the next week.

The Lions have the 10th pick in the first round of the draft.

NOTEBOOK: Tackle Kyle Kosier, a restricted free agent from San Francisco, visited. Kosier is a three-year veteran and played his first two NFL seasons under Lions line coach Pat Morris. He started all 16 games for the 49ers last year, including nine at left tackle, and has NFL experience at four of the five offensive line positions. ... Unrestricted free agent linebacker and special teams player Wali Rainer has signed a one-year contract with the Lions.

Jacksonville: The Jaguars signed veteran free agent defensive tackle Tony Williams. Williams will likely be a backup behind Pro Bowl tackles Marcus Stroud and John Henderson. Williams, 29, played six games with Cincinnati last season before missing the rest of the season with a broken ankle suffered in October

Minnesota: An NFL investigation into ticket-scalping has found evidence that Vikings coach Mike Tice violated league policy. Commissioner Paul Tagliabue, speaking at a news conference, said he would discipline Tice soon for his handling of Super Bowl tickets, but did not specify when. Tagliabue said the discipline likely would include fines for reselling tickets, but no suspension. Tice was being investigated for heading up a ticket-scalping operation within the Vikings organization that included assistant coaches and some players. Tice didn't immediately respond to a message left with team officials.

Philadelphia: Terrell Owens has a new agent. He doesn't have a new contract -- yet. The Eagles' receiver recently hired Drew Rosenhaus to replace his longtime agent, David Joseph. Rosenhaus met with Eagles president Joe Banner presumably to discuss his client's contract. Owens, who helped lead the Eagles to the Super Bowl in his first season in Philadelphia, signed a seven-year deal worth almost $49 million last March. ... Fullback Jon Ritchie signed a one-year contract with the Eagles, returning to the NFC champions after missing most of last season with a knee injury.

Free Press news services contributed.

ALinChainz

04-08-2005, 12:52 PM

Lions' Bly hopes for good health

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Three days after the fact, Dre' Bly was still celebrating.

Still wearing the blue-and-white golf shirt.

Still wearing the powder blue baseball cap.

Still celebrating his alma mater North Carolina's victory over Illinois in the NCAA championship game Monday night.

Bly, a two-time Pro Bowl cornerback, joined the rest of his Lions teammates for the start of off-season conditioning in Allen Park this week, but he's not letting any of them forget his college roots.

"For the next two weeks you're going to see me in some form of baby blue," Bly said, grinning.

And if it's up to Bly, the celebration will switch from North Carolina's baby blue and white to the Lions' Honolulu blue and silver early next fall.

That's why he doesn't mind spending four days a week running, lifting and preparing for the start of the season.

"You don't want to overdo it because it's only April," Bly said. "The bigger picture is August and September, when the season starts. You don't want to wear yourself out now to the point you don't have anything left when September comes.

"You want to gradually get yourself back into shape, push yourself, get good work out of what you're doing and form some type of relationships, be able to communicate among each other. That's key for teams that are successful. The more of that you do, the better off you'll be once the season starts."

After four rebuilding seasons in which the Lions have won a total of only 16 games, they have higher expectations for 2005. They have gotten younger and faster and have improved dramatically at the skilled positions. The consensus is that the Lions should win more games than they lose for the first time since the 2000 team finished 9-7.

Bly hopes to avoid the injury problems that slowed him in the early weeks last season.

"I'm really going to dedicate myself to getting in the best shape," he said. "Last year, I had a hip flexor before camp started, then I banged my knee up the first game. That kind of sidetracked me for a minute.

"I need to prepare myself because I still haven't had my breakout year. I want to maximize my full potential, and I haven't done that. I'm capable of having 10 interceptions; that's something I can do.

"Last year, I should have had six or seven, possibly eight. And I missed four games. I think with a healthy year, playing all 16 games and this team being successful, I think I could have a breakout year, and that's what I'm keying for."

Bly has been watching the Lions' off-season moves -- the addition of safety Kenoy Kennedy, tight end Marcus Pollard, quarterback Jeff Garcia and others -- and said there is only one thing left to do.

"We're putting ourselves where we want to be," he said. "Guys coming in the first week (of off-season workouts), basically we have everybody here. That's a good sign. Guys are motivated, looking forward to the season, ready to go.

"I think each individual understands and knows we have an opportunity to win this division, and I think guys are looking forward to it."

NOTEBOOK: With the draft barely two weeks away, Lions coaches and scouts are knee-deep in preparations. They are expected to meet with two more of the top wide receiver prospects -- Braylon Edwards of Michigan and Mike Williams of Southern Cal -- within the next few days, possibly today.

ALinChainz

04-09-2005, 11:16 PM

Edwards likes Lions, but ...

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Braylon Edwards came to Allen Park for a visit Friday. And, if it were up to him, he'd be back to stay in two weeks.

Nothing against the other 31 NFL teams that might covet him in the April 23-24 draft, but the University of Michigan wide receiver would be more than happy to play for his hometown Lions.

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"I'm from Detroit, played at Michigan," Edwards said. "So if I went to Detroit, that would be right up my alley, right down the street.

"If I play here in front of my hometown, there would be a lot of support and it would be a lot of fun."

His family -- including his father, Stanley, who played briefly with the Lions at the end of his own NFL career -- wouldn't have to travel the country to see him play.

"Tell me about it," Edwards said, laughing. "Tell me about it."

And he can see himself fitting in nicely with the Lions' two other young receivers -- Charles Rogers and Roy Williams -- in what would conceivably be one of the NFL's best 1-2-3 receiving combinations.

"We're two years apart -- Charles, then Roy, then there's me," Edwards said. "That would be a great situation -- three guys like that, three young, talented receivers. It would be hard in a couple years to stop three guys that had mastered the system."

It is not difficult for Edwards to get enthused about the possibility of playing for the Lions, who seem to be headed for better seasons after winning only 16 games in the last four years. But the reality of the situation is that it probably has no chance of happening.

Nine teams will make their selections before the Lions make their first pick in this year's draft. By even the most conservative estimate, it's hard to imagine Edwards would slip out of the top five.

Although the San Francisco 49ers are expected to use the No. 1 pick to take one of the top two quarterbacks -- Alex Smith of Utah or Aaron Rodgers of California -- they reportedly are also considering Edwards.

And if the 49ers don't draft him, many NFL observers doubt Edwards will slip beyond Miami, Cleveland, Chicago or Tampa Bay, the teams that follow San Francisco in the first-round order.

Edwards already has visited the Bears and says he has commitments to visit the 49ers, Minnesota, Cleveland and Tampa Bay.

If none of the first five teams selected him, he would still have to get past Tennessee, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington before the Lions would have a chance to draft him.

Although the Lions' chances of drafting Edwards seem remote, they frequently meet with as many of the top candidates as possible, in case the player slides in the draft or there is a chance for a trade.

As much Edwards says he'd like to play for the Lions, deep down he's hoping to go much higher than No. 10. The difference between a top-five selection and a six-through-10 selection is the difference of several million dollars.

"That's the business side of it," Edwards said. "You go from a potential one through four, which is guaranteeing yourself between 20 and 16 (million dollars), and then you drop down to 10, which is somewhere between five and seven.

"So it's a big difference, but if it happens, it happens. Just to get your foot in the door, that's the main thing -- just to be in the NFL and to be able to showcase your talents."

Warham

04-10-2005, 08:15 AM

Impressive, most impressive.

ALinChainz

04-10-2005, 05:01 PM

Heard an interesting interview with one of the guys from Pro Football Weekly.

He was commenting on the Garcia signing and how if one of the QB's in this draft slip to them that they may certainly do it and added the scenario of Harrington's possible move if it could happen, to perhaps Chicago. Or at worst having a young guy at #3.

He likes the LB Derrick Johnson from Texas for us there, which I wouldn't mind.

ALinChainz

04-13-2005, 07:28 PM

Competition no biggie for Joey

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Despite the speculation, Joey Harrington says he is secure in his role as the Lions' starting quarterback.

Harrington said Tuesday he does not feel his position was undermined by the acquisition of veteran West Coast offense quarterback Jeff Garcia.

"I knew they were going to bring somebody in," Harrington said. "I mean that was no surprise to me -- Brad Johnson, Jeff Garcia, whoever it was going to be.

"Jeff's experience and successes and knowledge of the offense provides a great safety net, and that's how it was described to me. Our roles at this point have been clearly defined to me."

And Harrington said he does not feel threatened by the possible interest in Utah quarterback Alex Smith -- considered by many a top-five prospect in the NFL draft on April 23.

"Draft him," Harrington said, laughing. "Great. Bring him in. Just make it a big three-way competition."

Harrington said he met Smith briefly in the team cafeteria last week and he views Smith's visit as part of the draft preparation.

"I sat and -- didn't eat lunch with him -- but I stopped and sat a minute, and said hi. He seemed like a nice guy," Harrington said.

"There were plenty of teams that brought me in over the month prior to the draft that had no intent on drafting me. That's part of the game. I don't look at it in any other way.

"You bring a bunch of guys in and, even if you don't end up drafting a kid, people bring guys in to see what they're like down the road. It's all part of the scouting process in the NFL."

Harrington and Garcia have been working together in the off-season conditioning program. They are the only quarterbacks on the roster since the team declined to re-sign Mike McMahon and Rick Mirer.

The Lions signed Garcia in March and, despite comments by coach Steve Mariucci that Harrington would be the No. 1 quarterback going into training camp, there has been speculation that Garcia would soon be the starter.

The speculation is based in part because Garcia played four seasons under Mariucci at San Francisco and because Mariucci has been reluctant to endorse Harrington as the quarterback to lead the Lions back to respectability.

Yet, Harrington said he has had reassurance from both owner William Clay Ford and president Matt Millen that the team has not given up on him. He said Ford called him in January to deny a published report saying the Lions were considering releasing him and he said Millen told him his release was never a serious consideration.

"I don't think there's any question about how I fit in," Harrington said. "I'm the quarterback of the Detroit Lions; that's how I fit in. And we've got to win football games. There's not an issue in my mind, other than we've got to win football games.

"If something changes four months from now, it's because of something I've done or haven't done. If something changes four months from now, it's because we're not winning football games, plain and simple."

The Lions will still be in training camp four months from now but the stakes -- and the expectations -- will be higher when they get into the regular season than at any time since the Lions drafted Harrington with the No. 3 pick in 2002.

"In the impatient world of the NFL, it's been three seasons now and we haven't been winning as much as a lot of people would like, myself included," Harrington said. "So you look for ways to get better and if Jeff provides that safety net . . . that's a good pickup."

NOTEBOOK: Harrington said wide receiver Roy Williams, who had ankle surgery at the end of the season, is already running routes in the off-season workouts . . . Linebacker Derrick Johnson of Texas and defensive end/linebacker Shawne Merriman of Maryland, both highly regarded draft prospects, visited the Lions on Tuesday, fueling speculation the team will try to land a defensive player with the No. 10 pick . . . The NFL is expected to announce the 2005 schedule today. The NFL Network will carry a two-hour show (2-4 p.m.) focusing on the schedule.

ALinChainz

04-14-2005, 12:43 PM

It's prime time for Lions; season ends with bang

April 14, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

The Lions will open the season with traditional rivals Green Bay and Chicago, but the real fireworks in their 2005 NFL season might be exploding in the final six weeks.

Beginning Thanksgiving Day against Atlanta, the Lions will meet six teams with a combined 60-36 record in 2004; all had records of 8-8 or better; and three of the final four games are on the road.

The wild ride to the finish includes:

The Falcons, defending NFC South champions, in the traditional holiday game at Ford Field on Nov. 24.

The Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on Dec. 4.

The Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Dec. 11, in the Lions' first ESPN prime time appearance since the 2000 season.

The Cincinnati Bengals in the final regular season game at Ford Field on Dec. 18.

The New Orleans Saints in a Christmas Eve road game.

The Pittsburgh Steelers, defending AFC North champions, in the regular-season finale at Heinz Field on New Year's Day.

With that kind of finishing schedule, it is probably in the Lions' best interest to get off to a fast start, and that's what coach Steve Mariucci had on his mind after getting his first look at the NFL schedule announced Wednesday.

"We always emphasize the importance of our division," Mariucci said in a statement released by the team. "What better way to start the season than with two divisional opponents who also happen to be arguably our two greatest rivals?"

The Lions open the season at home Sept. 11 against the Packers, followed by a road game against the Chicago Bears on Sept. 18 and a bye in the third week.

Six of the next eight games are against teams coming off losing seasons -- Tampa Bay, Carolina, Cleveland, the Bears, Arizona and Dallas. Baltimore (9-7) and the Vikings (8-8) also are included in that eight-game span.

The Lions' elevated expectations for the 2005 season are reflected in their three games scheduled for national television -- a Monday night exhibition game against St. Louis on Aug. 29, the Thanksgiving Day game against Atlanta and the Sunday night game at Green Bay on Dec. 11.

It will be the most nationally televised games the Lions have had since the 2000 season, when they had four.

The Lions also have two Sunday afternoon late games -- the 4:15 p.m. opener against Green Bay and the 4:05 p.m. final home game against Cincinnati -- that are shown to a larger nationwide audience than the 1 o'clock games.

NOTEBOOK: The Lions have agreed to contract terms with two restricted free agents -- tackle Kyle Kosier of San Francisco and linebacker Brad Kassell of Tennessee. Their teams can match the Lions' offers by next week or let the players go in exchange for compensation. ... Alex Smith, the tight end from Stanford, was among the draft prospects who visited Wednesday. Other players who spent at least part of the day at the team's Allen Park headquarters were Adam (Pac Man) Jones of West Virginia and defensive end/linebacker Johnathan Goddard from Marshall.

ALinChainz

04-15-2005, 04:01 PM

Lions re-sign CB Goodman to one-year contract

April 15, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions re-signed cornerback Andre Goodman to a one-year contract on Friday.

Detroit drafted Goodman in the third round three years ago. He started the last four games of the 2004 season and finished the year with 23 tackles, one interception, three passes defended and a forced fumble.

Goodman was a starting cornerback at the start of the 2003 season, but he had a season-ending shoulder injury in the third game. He has made two interceptions in his career and 85 tackles.

ALinChainz

04-17-2005, 02:31 PM

Lionsfans.com mock draft

Mike Fowler - Scout.com

April 17, 2005 at 11:36am ET

A mock draft is nothing more than your basic crap shoot. You have about 0% chance of being right and 1000% chance of being wrong, but isn't that the fun of putting a mock together? Lionsfans.com's Mike Fowler weighs in with his version of how the 2005 NFL draft will fall and it's a doozy. (Above) Utah quarterback Alex Smith asks "Excuse me?" perhaps in disbelief at Mike Fowler's mock draft for Lionsfans.com

A mock draft is nothing more than your basic crap shoot. You have about 0% chance of being right and 1000% chance of being wrong, but isn't that the fun of putting a mock together?

The trade rumors involving the Miami Dolphins possibly acquiring Travis Henry of Buffalo would seriously damage my mock draft because that would mean that Miami would no longer be looking for a running back while Arizona would be in serious need of a franchise ball carrier.

Also with Edgerrin James and Shawn Alexander both being shopped for as little as a second run pick, those holes could be filled without using a costly #1. So here goes with our 2005 mock draft (the double asterisks indicate a high probability of a trade at this position.)

1. San Francisco 49ers (2-14)
Braylon Edwards | WR | Michigan .
San Francisco has a servicable quarterback in Tim Rattay . If they use the first overall pick on Aaron Rodgers , they won't get any value from it for two seasons. Edwards is the kind of pure playmaking receiver that the 49ers have had since Jerry Rice and Terrell Owens left the Bay.

2. Miami Dolphins (4-12) ***
Ronnie Brown | RB | Auburn
This pick immediately changes if the Dolphins obtain the rights to Travis Henry for their second round pick, but why take Henry when James is available for likely the same price?

3. Cleveland Browns (4-12) **
Travis Johnson | DT | Florida State
The Bill Billichick system begins getting installed in Cleveland as new coach Romeo Crennel gets his franchise run stopper.

4. Chicago Bears (5-11)
Mike Williams | WR | USC
The Bears were hoping to pair Braylon Edwards with free agent acquisition Mushin Muhammad but with Edwards off the board, they get a solid chain mover in Williams who complements Muhammad in the star role.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cadillac Williams | RB | Auburn
Jon Gruden gets the pass catching, slashing back he favors as he makes over a team two years removed from a Super Bowl appearance. Williams immediately becomes the feature back in the Chris Simms era.

6. Tennessee Titans
Antrel Rolle | CB | Florida State
With the Titans losing both their starting corners, Rolle is too good to pass up. Watch him show why he's the best corner in the draft by making a pro bowl appearance as a rookie.

7. Minnesota Vikings
Troy Williamson | WR | South Carolina
Look for the Vikings to find a big play man to take the play of departed Randy Moss . Williamson's rep as a deep ball threat fills the bill here.

8. Arizona Cardinals
Aaron Rodgers | QB | California
Rodgers may be the best QB in the draft, but he isn't as good as past QB prospects. Still, Dennis Green is always looking for the next great arm and decides that with the running backs off the board, he'll go for the QB.

9. Washington Redskins
Adam Jones | CB | West Virginia
Redskins are still feeling the pinch from trading away Champ Bailey and need a shut down corner. Jones has the reputation but somehow I get the feeling he's going to be the draft's big disappointement.

10. Detroit Lions **
Alex Smith | QB | Utah
Look for the Lions to trade out of this spot. They would like to get a defensive player, but not this high. They also want extra picks to build up the depth on the team. If they stay here and Smith is on the board, Detroit will grab him and say adios to Joey Harrington . Harrington will count almost $9 million against Detroit's cap if he's on the roster on July 1. With his lack of productivity and veteran Jeff Garcia ready to hold down the starting job for the next two to three years, Detroit can bring Smith along slowly to be the quarterback of the future that Harrington never developed into.

11. Dallas Cowboys **
Derrick Johnson | LB | Texas

12. San Diego Chargers **
Marcus Spears | DE | LSU

13. Houston Texans
Cedric Benson | RB | Texas

14. Carolina Panthers
Heath Miller | TE | Virginia

15. Kansas City Chiefs
Alex Barron | T | Florida State

16. New Orleans Saints
Thomas Davis | S | Georgia

17. Cincinnati Bengals
Erasmus James | DE | Wisconsin

18. Minnesota Vikings
DeMarcus Ware | DE | Troy State

19. St. Louis Rams
Khalif Barnes | T | California

20. Dallas Cowboys
Carlos Rogers | CB | Auburn

21. Jacksonville Jaguars
Mark Clayton | WR | Oklahoma

22. Baltimore Ravens
Shawne Merriman | DE | Maryland

23. Seattle Seahawks
Alex Smith | TE | Utah

24. Green Bay Packers
Adrian McPherson | QB | Florida St.

25. Denver Broncos
Travis Johnson | DT | Florida St.

26. New York Jets
Justin Tuck | DE | Notre Dame

27. Atlanta Falcons
Roddy White | WR | UAB

28. San Diego Chargers
Dan Cody | DE | Oklahoma

29. Indianapolis Colts
Darryl Blackstock | LB | Virginia

30. Pittsburgh Steelers
David Pollack | DE | Georgia

31. Philadelphia Eagles
Terrence Murphy | WR | Texas A&M

32. New England Patriots
Matt Roth | DE | Iowa -------SECOND ROUND------
1. San Francisco 49ers
Marion Barber III | RB | Minnesota

2. Cleveland Browns
Shaun Cody | DT | USC

3. Philadelphia Eagles
Kevin Burnett | LB | Tennessee

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Brodney Pool | S | Oklahoma

5. Tennessee Titans
Jamaal Brown | T | Oklahoma

6. Oakland Raiders
Fabian Washington | CB | Nebraska

7. Chicago Bears
Josh Bullocks | S | Nebraska

8. New Orleans Saints (from Washington )
Mike Patterson | DT | Arkansas

9. Detroit Lions
Adam Terry | T | Syracuse The Lions need a replacement for veteran Stockar McDougle and Millen strikes gold simply by staying put and taking the best tackle after the big three of Barnes, Barron and Brown are gone. Terry has big-league size and good skills and best of all, a second round price tag.

ALinChainz

04-20-2005, 04:29 PM

Lions | Aiming for Defensive Help in First-round? - from www.KFFL.com
Wed, 20 Apr 2005 12:12:50 -0700

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports the Detroit Lions can now address the defensive side of the football after acquiring WR Kevin Johnson. There had been speculation the Lions would use their third straight first-round pick on a wide receiver during the upcoming NFL Draft.

Lions | WR K. Johnson Agrees to One-year Deal - from www.KFFL.com
Wed, 20 Apr 2005 12:12:31 -0700

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports the Detroit Lions have reached a one-year agreement with free agent WR Kevin Johnson (Ravens). Financial terms were not disclosed.

Lions | Gain Kosier, Lose Seventh-round Pick - from www.KFFL.com
Wed, 20 Apr 2005 06:20:43 -0700

Associated Press reports the Detroit Lions have signed free agent OL Kyle Kosier, as the San Francisco 49ers declined to match the offer sheet Detroit gave him. The one-year deal has been previously reported worth around $1 million and the Lions will now need to give the 49ers their seventh-round draft choice as compensation.

ALinChainz

04-21-2005, 02:29 PM

Why wait? New WR Johnson fills need now

April 21, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

With a little luck, Matt Millen figures the Lions will have no holes left to fill when they get to the NFL draft Saturday.

The No. 3 receiver position is no longer vacant.

The Lions reached agreement Wednesday on a one-year deal with six-year veteran Kevin Johnson, an unrestricted free agent who caught 35 passes for 373 yards and a touchdown with Baltimore last season.

And they seemingly are closing in on a veteran to compete with Victor Rogers and Kelly Butler at right tackle, a position vacated when Stockar McDougle left for Miami.

The San Francisco Chronicle reported that the 49ers will not match the Lions' offer to restricted free-agent tackle Kyle Kosier, but Millen was still waiting for notification from the 49ers late Wednesday. The Lions did announce the re-signing of Rogers, also a restricted free agent.

It appears less likely the Lions will succeed in their bid for restricted free-agent linebacker Brad Kassell of Tennessee, but two out of three in the week leading up to the draft isn't bad, especially if the two are players who fill clearly defined holes.

"If you look at our team right now, I don't think we have one glaring need," Millen said.

That means when Millen and coach Steve Mariucci get into the draft, they won't have to feel guilty about taking a player simply because they like him instead of looking for a lesser player who might fill a specific need.

The goal now -- after a concerted effort the past four years to get younger and faster -- is to acquire difference-makers.

And drafting 10th in the first round, Millen expects to find a number of players of that caliber available, including Texas linebacker Derrick Johnson, whom many draft observers are projecting as the Lions' top pick.

Should the Lions draft Johnson, he would join a solid set of linebackers, including four drafted in the past two years -- Boss Bailey and James Davis in 2003, Teddy Lehman and Alex Lewis last year. The Lions also have veterans Earl Holmes, Wali Rainer and Donté Curry.

"I'm looking to get as many playmakers as I can get," Millen said. "I think Derrick Johnson is a playmaker. I think Boss has that in him. I think we have one at the corner; No. 32 is a playmaker."

The Lions' No. 32 is Dré Bly.

If the Titans experience a change of heart and let Kassell escape to the Lions, it could be a real logjam of linebackers.

"Would it crowd it?" Millen asked. "Yeah, but so what? I'd like to have that problem for a change."

Although the Lions have won only 16 games total in the past four years, Millen has put together a team facing much higher expectations. The Lions might have a chance to compete for the NFC North title.

Assuming the veterans stay healthy, the rookies won't be thrown into the battle prematurely.

"The persons we take don't have to come in and be frontline guys right away," Millen said. "That's a good position to be in, for us."

The addition of Kevin Johnson gives the Lions the veteran presence they wanted as a No. 3 receiver in Mariucci's West Coast offense. Johnson started 71 of 73 games in his first 4 1/2 seasons at Cleveland before being released midway through the 2003 season.

Johnson, 28, finished 2003 at Jacksonville and was traded to Baltimore.

"Kevin Johnson has had success in this league," Millen said. "I think our two outside guys" -- Charles Rogers and Roy Williams -- "if they're going to do what I think they're going to do, it will be good for the inside people."

Johnson is expected to line up most of the time at an inside slot position, where he can benefit from the attention defenses must pay to Rogers and Williams outside.

"I like his hands, he's a good route runner, he's a hardworking kid, he's a smart guy," Millen said.

Kosier, 27, started all 16 games last season at San Francisco and has experience at guard and tackle. He is expected to compete for the right tackle job, and if he doesn't win it can provide depth.

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions21e_20050421.htm

ALinChainz

04-23-2005, 05:33 PM

Lions take Mike Williams with 10th pick in draft

April 23, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- The Detroit Lions played out plenty of draft possibilities, and never really considered Southern California receiver Mike Williams among them.

Yet when it was the Lions' turn to make their selection in the first round of the NFL draft on Saturday, they followed a familiar pattern by picking Williams 10th overall, the third straight year Detroit chose a receiver.

``We ran a lot of scenarios and in all of those scenarios, we didn't believe that Mike Williams would be sitting there,'' Lions CEO Matt Millen said. ``There are a lot of ways to help an offense and a defense. Scoring points is one of them. Mike Williams does that very well.''

Williams caught 176 passes for 2,579 yards and 30 touchdowns in two years at USC, but hasn't played in more than a year.

He was forced to sit out last season after the original court decision in Maurice Clarett's case against the NFL was overturned and the league was allowed to keep players from entering the draft until they were three years removed from high school.

Then, Williams was not allowed to return to school because the NCAA wouldn't restore his eligibility.

In 2003, Detroit picked Charles Rogers, and last year they selected Roy Williams. Rogers' seasons have been cut short by injuries.

Mike Williams, who will wear No. 88 next season, said he is not looking to replace anyone, just fit in where he can.

``I'm just excited to be a part of that receiving group,'' he said. ``They have some big guys that can stretch the field and do their thing. I'm just excited to go up there and identify what I can bring to this offense.''

Coach Steve Mariucci said the door is wide open on where Williams will line up -- inside or out.

``The thing about him is that he can do both,'' Mariucci said. ``He loves playing inside because he's big and physical, and he doesn't mind releasing off linebackers and working in holes and taking a hit. But he's good enough to play outside as well.''

The 6-foot-5 receiver didn't know where he would end up after Tennessee and Washington took cornerbacks Adam ``Pacman'' Jones of West Virginia and Auburn's Carlos Rogers, respectively. He said no promises were made.

``Being a top-10 pick after not playing for a year is a blessing. That's something that no one thought would happen,'' Williams said. ``I could care less about what teams didn't draft me. What's important is the team that did draft me.''

The Lions liked their options heading into the draft. They have needs, but they are not so desperate that they had to take a player because of the position he plays rather than his talent. They had the luxury of trading up or down, or sticking with the 10th pick.

``We made the appropriate calls and we had stuff set up before, and then we actually waited a little bit and nothing happened,'' Millen said.

The Lions aren't forgetting about the defensive side of the ball, and will likely address those needs in the later rounds of the draft.

Warham

04-23-2005, 06:45 PM

Excellent draft so far: A for a grade

ALinChainz

04-23-2005, 06:52 PM

Lions trade up, take DT Shaun Cody with 37th pick

April 23, 2005
NEW YORK (Ticker) - The Detroit Lions traded up four spots with the Tennessee Titans and selected Southern California defensive tackle Shaun Cody with the 37th pick in the NFL draft.

The Titans moved down four spots and also received a fourth-round pick in the deal.

A cornerstone on the Trojans' back-to-back championship teams, Cody was a finalist for the Lombardi Trophy and co-winner of the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year award last season. He recorded 45 tackles, including 13 for losses, and 10 sacks with two forced fumbles last season.

Detroit selected USC wide receiver Mike Williams with the 10th overall pick.

POJO_Risin

04-24-2005, 02:52 AM

Here's an article on the Mike Williams pick with the grade at the bottom...

What in the heck is this team doing? Unless this team has a deal worked out for Williams with another team, why would they draft him? This is a luxury. Not a need. They have Charles Rogers. They have Roy Williams. Both were high first-round picks. And although there is some injury concerns with those two, no team can afford three high first-round picks at one position. This is a terrible move, no matter what kind of player Williams can be. D

POJO_Risin

04-24-2005, 02:55 AM

Here's another...

CZAR'S FRONT OFFICE TAKE: The only thing Williams may hate is that he could line up as a tight end. The Lions were pegged to take LB Derrick Johnson, but GM Matt Millen loved Williams' competitive attitude and his ability to strong-arm defensive backs. Doesn't have big-time speed, but catches in traffic and has super hands. There will be no excuses for QB Joey Harrington with his receiving lineup: Roy Williams and Charles Rogers. This off-season Rogers had a plate inserted over his collarbone, so there will never be a repeat of that injury. Pretty scary receiving lineup.
DELUCIA'S SCOUTING TAKE: An excellent pick in taking the best player on the board, although they needed a pass rusher or another athlete at LB. Credit Matt Millen for being bold and smart due to the durability questions with Charles Rogers and Roy Williams. Mike Williams has the size and physical skills to create a lot of matchup problems. The Lions' passing game will be dangerous with a core built around young stars Mike Williams, Charles Rogers, Roy Williams, Kevin Jones, and veteran Marcus Pollard. If these guys stay healthy, they will be fighting for the ball. Joey Harrington is on the hot seat to produce quickly.

POJO_Risin

04-24-2005, 03:00 AM

and another...

Mike Williams WR
Southern Cal | 6-4.5 | 230
If Joey Harrington can't find someone to throw to at this point, we're going to have to start to look at him. Williams is not only a good wide receiver, he's great. Tall, strong, great hands. Maybe the Lions didn't need him -- remember, they have Roy Williams and Charles Rogers, two first-round picks, already -- but you better believe they'll use him. The Lions went for best available talent and, in doing so, look to be one exciting offensive team on the rise. If Harrington comes through, that is.

ALinChainz

04-24-2005, 03:02 AM

Critics ain't liking it, but the fans seem to really like it.

The crowd at Ford Field watching seemed to be excited.

I like it, no question.

POJO_Risin

04-24-2005, 03:05 AM

You know Detroit's phones will be ringing about potential trades...

Warham

04-24-2005, 08:04 AM

Critics change their minds about as much as they change their underwear.

If Williams is a pro-bowl player in two years, they'll all say they raved about this pick.

POJO_Risin

04-24-2005, 02:30 PM

I don't think it's a question of IF...he will be if he gets the touches...

there is potential trouble here though...starting with touches...and the QB situation...which I know you all feel good about...but deep in your hearts...you feel like I do right now with my Steelers...

I think Ben can be an outstanding QB...don't get me wrong...but the standards are pretty damn high right now...being that he's 16-1 as a starter...

I thing Harrington is going to be playing with a ton of weight on his shoulder...and he's done nothing to make me calm in thinking he can handle it...

and Garcia...as a backup for a game or 2...sure...but if he ends up your starter...I don't think it would matter if you had Rice, Stallworth, Swann and Tim Brown in their primes...

I love the Mike Williams pick up...still think they are going to need to go out and get a QB...but hope for the best...

I don't dislike Detroit...and wouldn't mind seeing them come out of this in incredible fashion...

needless to say...I think their running game is going to be a major player this year...

ALinChainz

04-25-2005, 06:55 PM

Lions | Hakim Released - from www.KFFL.com
Mon, 25 Apr 2005 13:33:11 -0700

WDFN Sports Radio 1130 AM in Detroit reports the Detroit Lions have released WR Az-Zahir Hakim.

Lions | Marion Released - from www.KFFL.com
Mon, 25 Apr 2005 13:32:54 -0700

WDFN Sports Radio 1130 AM in Detroit reports the Detroit Lions have released S Brock Marion.

Lions | View Cody as Interior Rush Specialist - from www.KFFL.com
Mon, 25 Apr 2005 13:01:22 -0700

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports the Detroit Lions plan to use 2005 second-round draft choice DT Shaun Cody as an interior pass rush specialist in their defensive line rotation next season.

Lions | Wilson to Compete in Nickel, Dime Packages - from www.KFFL.com
Mon, 25 Apr 2005 12:59:23 -0700

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions CB Stanley Wilson, the club's 2005 third-round draft choice, will compete for playing time in the nickel and dime packages next year.

Lions | Williams to Play in Three Receiver Sets - from www.KFFL.com
Mon, 25 Apr 2005 12:55:00 -0700

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports the Detroit Lions plan to play 2005 first-round draft choice WR Mike Williams in three-receiver sets with WRs Charles Rogers and Roy Williams next season.

Lions | Orlovsky Projected as No. 3 QB - from www.KFFL.com
Mon, 25 Apr 2005 12:48:22 -0700

Curt Sylvester, of the Detroit Free Press, reports Detroit Lions QB Dan Orlovsky, the club's 2005 fifth-round draft choice, is expected to be the team's third-string quarterback this season.

ALinChainz

04-25-2005, 10:01 PM

Lions say draft picks should help them win

April 25, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

It was a throwaway line, typical of Lions president Matt Millen. Certainly not an ultimatum.

"A few years back we sat here and we said, 'We need playmakers. We need to get younger, we need to get faster, healthier and we need playmakers,' " Millen said. "Right now, we've done that. Across the board we have playmakers."

Millen paused momentarily, turning to coach Steve Mariucci with a grin: "It's up to you there, big guy."

Not an ultimatum but -- in the thick of the NFL draft -- a hint. A suggestion. A subtle reminder.

With the addition of playmaking wide receiver Mike Williams and defensive tackle Shaun Cody, the Lions are no longer a team overmatched for the NFL battles ahead.

In a similar situation at San Francisco, Mariucci took a rebuilt 6-10 team to a 12-4 record and the 2001 NFL playoffs.

The 2005 Lions might not be ready for a 12-win season, but the 2-14, 3-13, 5-11 and 6-10 seasons should be history.

"That's what you want," Mariucci said Sunday. "You want to put a team together where you have higher and higher and higher expectations each year, and that's the path we're on.

"We added six draftees this weekend, we added six or so free agents, so we'll get some improvement from the additions we made but -- like I've mentioned before -- the greater part of the improvement will come from the development of our current players.

"All the guys who have been wearing a Lions helmet need to improve and will improve and that's where that 6-10 record changes."

The Lions might not have had the glitziest draft in the league -- nothing like last year's coup of landing wide receiver Roy Williams and running back Kevin Jones in the first round -- but Millen and Mariucci perhaps applied the finishing touches to the younger, faster Lions.

Mike Williams and Cody -- the first- and second-round picks -- are not projected as instant starters, but the Lions will expect them to make immediate and significant contributions. They plan to use Williams in three-receiver sets with Charles Rogers and Roy Williams, and want Cody to provide an inside pass rush in the defensive line rotation.

Cornerback Stanley Wilson of Stanford, the third-round pick, brings speed in an area where NFL teams are always seeking more depth. He will compete for time in the nickel and dime defenses.

The second-day draft picks are never a sure thing, but the Lions feel good about the three they landed, including two Millen acquired in a trade with New England:

• Dan Orlovsky of Connecticut, expected to be the No. 3 quarterback behind Joey Harrington and Jeff Garcia, with the prospect of developing into quality backup or a player with trade value.

•Defensive end Bill Swancutt of Oregon State, a pass rusher who shared Pac-10 defensive player of the year honors with Cody and whose work ethic gives him a chance to make the team.

•Defensive end/linebacker Johnathan Goddard of Marshall, who led the nation last fall with 16 sacks but doesn't fit physically as either an end or a linebacker. The Lions like his speed and will leave it to defensive coordinator Dick Jauron to determine where he fits best.

Millen gave the Patriots the Lions' fourth-round pick in the 2006 draft for New England's fifth- and sixth-round picks this year. He took Orlovsky in the fifth round and Goddard in the sixth. The Lions took Swancutt with their own sixth-round pick.

The Lions earlier gave up their fourth-round pick to move up four notches and draft Cody in the second round. They used their fifth-round pick in the maneuvering to get Jones in the first round a year ago, and their seventh-round pick went to San Francisco as compensation for signing restricted free agent tackle Kyle Kosier.

Mike Williams and Cody briefly visited the Lions' training headquarters at Allen Park on Sunday. All six of the drafted players are expected to participate in a three-day minicamp beginning Friday.

"We're going to give these guys a taste of what we do on offense and defense," Mariucci said. "We're going to do a little special teams, too. We'll put in punt and field goal.

"We'll give them a little bit more than our base offense and defense. We're going to give them every personnel group. We'll probably stay away from goal line until June, but we'll give them a variety of things we're going to do in our base and nickel."

Although the Lions spent their first pick -- No. 10 overall -- on a wide receiver for the third consecutive year, they used four of the remaining five choices on defensive players. Three of the four -- Cody, Swancutt and Goddard -- are front-seven players, providing the depth Millen and Mariucci wanted.

"The defensive line was probably the most deep position and the strength of our football team, and we added a couple of real good players to it," Mariucci said. "We improved something we were doing pretty well with."

Millen called Swancutt and Goddard, the Lions' last two players in the draft, "relentless. We've already picked up the pace on our defensive line."

Wilson, the son of the former Cincinnati Bengals running back with the same name, also figures into the Lions' improved defensive depth. He has sprinter speed, has good size at 5-feet-11 and is good in coverage.

"There's a good mix of corners right now," Mariucci said. "He's going to come in and compete.

"Then you always get a special teams evaluation, too, on these kids. Chuck had him as a gunner, as a jammer, as an aggressive cover guy, as a guy that can run and do a lot of things in the kicking game. That's another area where he has added value."

Gunners and jammers are the fast, tough players who man the flanks on punts and punt returns, the units Chuck Priefer coaches.

Contact CURT SYLVESTER at 313-222-2621 or sylvester@freepress.com.

ALinChainz

04-29-2005, 07:23 PM

By LARRY LAGE, AP Sports Writer

April 29, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- Mike Williams' long, agonizing wait is over.

The Detroit Lions' receiver was finally back on a football field -- with teammates -- for the first time since helping Southern California beat Michigan in the 2004 Rose Bowl.

``It's been a long time, a real long time.'' Williams said Friday.

He hoped to be an NFL rookie last season.

After a court ruled in February 2004 that Maurice Clarett was eligible to play in the league, Williams hired an agent and tried to follow him. But an appeals court overturned the earlier ruling and upheld the NFL's right to bar players who had been out of high school less than three years.

Williams attempted to return to USC for his junior season, but the NCAA turned down his request last August. He was relegated to working out on his own until Friday morning, when the Lions opened a minicamp.

``It's a lot of fun to just be a part of a group again,'' said Williams, the 10th pick in the draft. ``I definitely didn't feel rusty or out of place, like you think I would.''

After some light running and stretching, Williams stood and watched the first 10 plays during a drill before getting a chance to run a route.

Later, he lined up as a slot receiver in a four-wide set alongside Roy Williams, Charles Rogers -- first-round picks the two previous years -- and Kevin Johnson with Joey Harrington at quarterback.

Detroit cornerback Dre Bly said it reminded him of practicing against the St. Louis Rams.

``For opposing defenses, it can get ugly,'' Bly said.

The knock against the 6-foot-5, 229-pound Williams has been his lack of speed. He ran two 4.59 40-yard dashes at the NFL combine.

But it didn't take him long to show Bly he's fast enough for professional football, running past him on an inside route.

``I wasn't expecting him to get out of his break like he did,'' Bly said. ``He was so explosive -- so fast. He had me flipped and turned around. It kind of caught me by surprise.''

Williams said he doesn't pay attention to critics who have him pegged as a tight end in the NFL.

``I might not run fast on a track, but I play fast,'' he said.

Williams played two years at USC, catching 81 passes for 1,265 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman, then making 95 receptions for 1,314 yards and a school-record 16 TDs in 2003.

``He's a huge target,'' Harrington said. ``He uses his body and hands well.''

The Lions usually reserved their three- and four-receiver sets for third downs, but Lions coach Steve Mariucci envisions using those formations more on first and second downs this season.

That's assuming Rogers is healthy for the first time in three seasons.

The second pick overall in 2003 played five games as a rookie before breaking his collarbone, then broke it again in the season opener last year.

``He's got to be more comfortable -- not just physically, but mentally,'' Mariucci said.

Though he was limited to non-contract drills, Rogers insisted he's healthy.

``I feel good,'' he said. ``Everything is going great.''

With a potentially explosive receiving corps and promising running back Kevin Jones, many have said Harrington will not have any excuses during his fourth season in the NFL.

``I always put more pressure on myself than anybody from the outside,'' he said.

ALinChainz

04-29-2005, 07:43 PM

Doug Warren - Scout.com

April 29, 2005 at 3:37pm ET

The Detroit Lions have the talent and speed on defense, writes columnist Doug Warren. But it is up to defensive coordinator Dick Jauron to employ a defense that can take advantage of its strengths. Analysis inside.

I find it a bit funny that many observers and fans alike see the Lions decision to ignore their defense with last Saturday's first round selection as a mistake. For the first time in a decade, the Lions went into the draft with the ability to select the best available player on the board.

Contrary to what many believe, outside of the free safety spot and possibly quarterback, the Lions no longer have any glaring weakness on the roster. With the health questions surrounding Charles Rogers and the butterfingers of Az Hakim, the selection of Mike Williams shored up one of Detroit's biggest pre-draft need; which was to find a solid complement to current #1 receiver Roy Williams . With Mike's arrival, and last week's free Agent signing of veteran wideout Kevin Johnson , the Wizard of Az was sent to Kansas to find Judy Garland and Toto Monday afternoon.

Texas OLB Derrick Johnson was the nearly unanimous mock draft selection for the Lions last week. When all was said and done, Johnson had slipped to #15 where he was chosen by the Kansas City Chiefs . Johnson is a very good player, and would very likely have been an upgrade for the Lions at weakside linebacker (WLB). Nevertheless, while I agree that the Lions have some holes and depth questions defensively, the linebacking core wasn't one of them.

Boss Bailey is expected back at 100% to man the Lions' SLB spot. The underappreciated Earl Holmes will be back once again at MLB, and the young trio of Teddy Lehman , James Davis and Alex Lewis are currently expected to battle for the starting WLB spot. Throw in Wali Rainer and Donte Curry as sold reserves and special teamers, and it is clear that Detroit's LB core is a strength rather than a weakness.

With or without a top-ten defensive pick last Saturday, the Lions' defense will be better this season. It has to be when you consider that the Lions will add three players who were picked, at one time or another, in the first two rounds of the NFL draft (Kenoy Kennedy , Boss Bailey, Shaun Cody ) next season.

Bailey and Kennedy of course will be starters. Cody could start as well, although I expect him to be worked into the starting lineup slowly; as he will fit nicely into the DT rotation with the veteran trio of Shaun Rogers , Dan Wilkinson and Marcus Bell .

The pass defense should be stronger too. Don't be surprised if we see the emergence of two young players this season in the Lions' secondary, safety Terrence Holt and cornerback Keith Smith . Holt will likely be the opening day starter at free safety. Many Lion observers have wondered why this development has taken so long; being that he had shown the ability to make things happen during his three years as a reserve. With the release this week of veteran Brock Marion, the Lions' starting FS spot is seemingly Holt's job to lose. If Terrence takes control of the job, he and SS Kenoy Kennedy could make a tremendous impact on the Lions' defense next season.

I like Keith Smith too. This kid, like Holt, showed the ability to make plays last season as a rookie cornerback. He is a hitter with good size and speed. If number-two corner Fernando Bryant 's struggles continue next year, look for Smith - the second year player who hails from Joe Dumars' alma matter, McNeese State - to become a starter by midseason. With the arrival of 3rd round pick and former Stanford Cardinal CB Stanley Wilson , veterans Chris Cash and Andre Goodman will both be fighting for a roster spot this summer. Both vets have been plagued by injury during their careers, and those problems have zapped much of the speed and quickness they displayed during their rookie seasons.

Dre' Bly, contrary to popular reports, was a Pro Bowl player last season. While he didn't have the INT numbers of the previous year due to his injuries and missed snaps, he was a very good run defender last season and still collected four interceptions. Maybe I'm blind, but I saw him plenty of times last year come up in the flat and cut a RB at the knees as the D-lineman and linebackers were converging "gang-tackle" style. Bly is a player and a leader, and if he can remain on the field for 16 games next season, the Lions' pass defense will be infinitely better.

Fernando Bryant had an off year last season, no question. Was it a fluke? We will find out soon enough. I think it had a little to do with injury and a little more to do with Dick Jauron's passive zone defenses. Bryant and Bly would both be more effective if they were allowed to play a more aggressive Cover-2 scheme like Tampa Bay or the New York Jets employ. I really hope that it has been made clear to Jauron that he needs to be much more aggressive with his playcalling this season. There is no reason that all this speed has to go to waste in a chicken$#!+ "bend-but-don't-break" scheme.

For the first time in a long time, the Detroit Lions are entering a season with depth and talent on both sides of the ball. The time is now for the Lions to make a move into the upper echelon of the NFC and contend for the NFC North crown and their first playoff birth since 1999. The time for patience has passed. The cry of "wait until next year" will no longer be tolerated - and it shouldn't be.

There is no reason that this team, with relative health and solid QB play, should not contend for a division title, a playoff birth, and even the once unthinkable ten-win plateau. With the draft now over and spring mini-camp now underway, there is a urgent anticipation among long suffering Lions fans everywhere that their team is now talented enough to not only contend, but may even be on the verge of something more.

Let's hope that Steve Mariucci and Dick Jauron coach and create game plans next fall with the same sense of urgency.

ALinChainz

04-30-2005, 02:33 PM

Lions' three of kind feel spring in steps

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

The moment came and went quite unceremoniously.

The Lions lined up in a four-wide set, and there they were -- Charles Rogers split on the left side with Mike Williams in the slot, and Roy Williams flanked on the far side of the field.

The big three of wide receivers. The team's top draft picks of the past three years. Three of the most promising receivers in Lions history lining up together for the first time.

The ball was snapped, and they were off. Straight down the field in the vertical offense the Lions have been longing for all these years.

The moment was frozen in time perhaps for those observing from the sidelines but wasted on quarterback Joey Harrington, the man with the football in his hands.

"Did we complete the ball?" Harrington asked.

Yes, Harrington completed the pass, but let history show that neither Rogers nor Roy Williams nor Mike Williams caught the ball on this momentous occasion. The pass went to the fourth receiver -- six-year veteran Kevin Johnson, signed last week as a free agent from Baltimore -- who made the catch, running out of the slot position on the right side.

"Good," Harrington said, laughing. "I wasn't thinking about it a whole lot today. I'm not worried about matchups right now; I'm just trying to get the ball in the offense's hands."

The day might come eventually when Harrington has to concern himself with which receiver will be the primary target, but not Friday on the first day of the first minicamp of the spring at Allen Park.

Mike Williams, the 10th player taken in the NFL draft last Saturday, got his first taste of the NFL and admitted he was somewhat surprised.

"It was a lot more than I thought it would be," Williams said.

Although he had been warned that the pro game would be faster, he said it was faster than he expected.

Roy Williams, the seventh player taken in the 2004 draft, practiced for the first time since undergoing arthroscopic surgery to clean up his injured left ankle at the end of last season.

At one point in the workouts, after catching a deep throw and sprinting the rest of the way to the end zone, he had to stop and catch his breath.

"I'd run about 300 yards," he explained.

And Rogers, who started the Lions' run on receivers when they took him with the No. 2 pick in 2003, was getting his first taste of action since suffering a broken collarbone -- his second in less than 12 months -- in the season opener at Chicago last Sept. 12.

The last thing on his mind was whether there would be enough receptions to satisfy three first-round receivers.

"I think we'll all be on the same page as long as we don't let egos come into it," Rogers said. "There's going to be times where Roy catches five passes and nobody else catches any. There's going to be times when Mike catches his, there's going to be times when I catch mine."

For Rogers, the first day of minicamp was about getting back on the field and running plays after missing all except three plays last season.

"It felt great," Rogers said. "It's kind of hard to put in words, but when you play football your whole life and get back out there on the field, you're just doing something that you love. You're just having fun again.

"When you're out there, you take it back to when you were a kid, playing on that playground at school. It's kind of hard for me to put it into words, but it's beautiful."

Rogers was even understanding of coach Steve Mariucci's decision to limit his participation in the minicamp. Rogers took a turn in all of the individual drills and the position drills, but he wore a red shirt as a reminder to his teammates that he is not allowed to have physical contact yet.

And when the Lions went into 11-on-11 work, Rogers was reduced to an observer -- on Mariucci's orders.

"You want to compete, you like competition," Rogers said. "So any time you're out there and they pull you out, you might get a little offended, but that's Coach. He knows what's best for you. I believe in what he's trying to do, and I feel like he's got my best interest at heart."

Rogers said he has gained about eight pounds, putting him at 218, since starting rehabilitation work.

"I put on a little bit of weight," he said. "I felt like I had to make that adjustment. When things don't go right, you try something different. The weight is holding up pretty good, my speed's still there. I think it was beneficial to me, and I think as I get older my body's maturing to be a complete receiver."

Rogers said he expects to lose some of the weight as he increases the running he does to prepare for the season. He said he expects to play at about 212 pounds.

Contact CURT SYLVESTER at 313-222-2621 or sylvester@freepress.com.

POJO_Risin

04-30-2005, 04:14 PM

Kevin Johnson is an awfully effective #4 receiver...even though I suspect they'll use him more as a #3...or even #2 in some sets...not that it will matter...

JBall008

04-30-2005, 11:33 PM

I think Williams was a good pick. Rogers could be awesome if he ever plays any regular season games, and this pick will probably be the "do or die" for Harrington (as if this season wasn't already). If Joey can't get 'er done with the two Williams', then it's all she wrote. The sad thing is they got Garcia.

I hear Eric Hipple still has a home in Farmington Hills.....

Warham

05-01-2005, 12:24 AM

Let's face it. The Lions are stacked on offense.

Kevin Jones
Corey Schlesinger
Marcus Pollard
Roy Williams
Charles Rogers
Mike Williams
Kevin Johnson

They let go of Hakim, who's probably a #2 on some bad teams.

POJO_Risin

05-01-2005, 12:31 AM

The Lions are certainly stacked on offense...but like anyone else...they have question marks...

Charles Rogers staying healthy...sure...he's got a metal plate...but he has the feel of someone who is going to be battling something all the time...

Roy coming off surgery...

Pollard isn't getting any younger...

KEVIN JONES IS A STUD...

Mike Williams will be...

Kevin Johnson is a good pickup...

but they will need a quarterback by midseason IMO...

and if Garcia starts...this strange love that Lions fans have for him will disappear...

They certainly will improve their #30 in the NFL redzone offense...

but the question remains whether or not their #22 defense will improve...

with a healthy Kevin Jones all year...3 good receivers...a great tight end...

they SHOULD be able to hold onto the ball more...and make that D better...

I still question not going after a Merriman who would have been big for them on D...

but can't fault them for going after a guy who would have gone top 3 the previous year...

Warham

05-01-2005, 12:33 AM

I actually think Harrington will have a good year this year.

I also think the D will improve with the pick-ups over the offseason.

I'm more confident now than I was before the free agent pick-ups.

POJO_Risin

05-01-2005, 12:41 AM

there really is no precedence for Harrington to have a good year...;)

I think the D will improve...but not because of the pickups...because the offense HAS to improve...if not Harrington and Millen will both be looking for jobs...

Confidence is good...I actually thought that the Lions were going to make the playoffs last year in the preseason...

then Rogers went down...then Jones...then Roy...then Jones came back...but Harrington was laying eggs...

and the D wasn't bad...but certainly wasn't that good...

the addressed some needs for sure...but I really don't see an impact Defensive player signed...

I loved the Cody pick in the second round...a steal IMO...and Wilson may be a good cover corner in a couple of years...but will more than likely warm the pine this year...because if he starts...that's saying a bunch about what their d will be doing...

they addressed the offense...and truly have nothing but resigned defensive guys on that D...

Really the only guy that I can remember them signing is that Kennedy chap from Denver...the DB...and that certainly isn't a defense changer....

ALinChainz

05-01-2005, 12:58 PM

Johnson and Pollard give Lions a big hand

Proven pros will have time to help younger receivers adapt to NFL style.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Youth will be served among the Lions' receivers, but there is still a place for some good old hands.

It wasn't by accident that when the Lions lined up in a four-receiver formation for the first time in mini-camp, Joey Harrington's pass down the right seam settled into the sure hands of wide receiver Kevin Johnson.

Johnson and tight end Marcus Pollard were signed as free agents to add stability and playmaking ability to a passing game that has lacked both in recent seasons.

Johnson caught 367 passes and scored 25 touchdowns in six seasons with Cleveland, Jacksonville and Baltimore. Pollard has 263 catches and 35 touchdowns in 10 seasons with Indianapolis.

On April 20, Johnson agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the prospect of working with Roy Williams and Charles Rogers as the No. 3 receiver. Three days later, the Lions drafted Mike Williams of Southern California in the first round.

Johnson chuckled Saturday when asked about the timing, and if he would have signed with the Lions had the same opportunity presented itself after the draft.

"One thing about life, you make decisions, you've got to live with them," he said. "It's a great opportunity. Things happen for a reason in life. You've got to make the most of it.

"It's going to be a good experience. Hopefully, I can bring a lot of different things to the table. Hopefully, I can help these young guys get ready. It's going to be fun.

"We're going to throw the ball all over the field. I think it just gives me an opportunity to be out there and make some plays on this team."

Pollard, 33, has played at a high level on one of the NFL's best offenses. In 2004, he caught 29 passes and six touchdowns. He has made his presence felt in the first two days of mini-camp.

"You can see that he has several great catches," coach Steve Mariucci said. "He's a good route-runner. You can split him out and use him as a receiver-type if you need to. He's a smart guy."

Drop zone

Stats Inc., which provides comprehensive statistical information for NFL teams and other sources, gave the Lions 36 dropped passes in 2004, fifth-most in the league.

Mariucci disputes that total.

"We had 50-some," Mariucci said. "Maybe we graded harder than Stats Inc."

Owner William Clay Ford watched the first day of mini-camp with team president Matt Millen. Ford liked how the receivers caught the ball compared with last season

Millen related this comment by Ford: "We look better. Even our kickers can catch the ball."

Highlight catch

Roy Williams made his teammates cheer with a spectacular one-handed catch in the afternoon practice. He was covered by cornerback Dré Bly and had to reach back for a pass. Williams caught the ball with his right hand, pinned it to his back and ran upfield. The players were still buzzing before the next play.

"Once again, a lucky catch," Williams said after practice, smiling.

Before practice, Williams said he practiced catching balls launched by the jugs machine with one hand.

"I dropped all eight of them," he said.

Lining up

Kelly Butler, a sixth-round draft pick from Purdue in 2004 who was inactive for all 16 games, was No. 1 in the rotation at right offensive tackle at the start of mini-camp. Right tackle is the only starting position open.

Butler isn't claming the position. Victor Rogers, drafted in 2002, and Kyle Kozier, a free agent with three seasons of starting experience at guard and tackle in San Francisco, also are in the running.

"We're rotating now," Butler said. "Nothing's solidified. At the end of the season, whoever's the starter, that's the best thing.."

Final judgments won't be made until training camp, when players are in pads and there is contact. Mini-camp practices are in helmets and shorts.

Meanwhile, guard Damien Woody's battle of the bulge -- with his weight -- appears to be continuing from last season. Where does he stand?

"Ask him," offensive line coach Pat Morris said. "He should know by now."

ALinChainz

05-02-2005, 02:09 PM

Mariucci not concerned with Garcia's so-so practices

Monday, May 02, 2005

By Tom Kowalski

ALLEN PARK -- Jeff Garcia, the Detroit Lions new backup quarterback, looked good for the majority of the team's three-day minicamp, but there were also times when he looked not-so-good.

There were times when Garcia threw short to receivers downfield, but head coach Steve Mariucci isn't concerned at all.

"I think he's practicing right now as well as he has," said Mariucci, adding that Garcia would occasionally throw bad practice passes even during his three-year Pro Bowl run from 2000-02 when Mariucci coached Garcia with the San Francisco 49ers.

"There'll be practice time where he's not going to have that big arm and shoot it over on a comeback (route) and put it right there every time," Mariucci said. "He'll practice well, and smart, and all that sort of thing. But it's when it's live and he has to run around and make a play and do something out of the ordinary or something that's not in the playbook. His improvise is so special. That's where he becomes a heck of a player, on game day."

Mariucci also said he isn't worried because Garcia is hardly in full camp workout mode.

"He hasn't been throwing twice a day, none of these guys have," Mariucci said. "He's not a bad practice player, he's had a good camp. Our quarterback situation is as good as it's been in a long time here."

Mariucci got a chuckle out of Garcia's listing on the team's roster: 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds.

"I don't know. I've stood next to him when he was weighing in a few years ago (with the 49ers) and I saw 188 one time," Mariucci said of the 35-year-old quarterback. "I don't think he's got a lot of growth potential. He's not 200 pounds and 6-1 is a stretch."

Quarterback Dan Orlovsky, the team's fifth-round draft pick, impressed some of the players and coaches with his play during the minicamp.

"We gave him some good amount of reps, for a rookie. Usually, we have rookies standing over here by the water," Mariucci said. "He showed us some good things, he certainly has enough arm for all the throws that we're going to make in this offense."

Mariucci was also impressed by Orlovsky's mobility, despite the fact he's 6-5 and 238 pounds.

"He runs around well enough. He threw the ball on a scramble drill for a touchdown to Adam Herzing," Mariucci said. "He steps into the huddle with a little confidence. Often times, rookies go in there like 'I don't know this stuff.' He was good with his huddle demeanor and his cadences, his on-the-ball procedure was good and he didn't seem to be intimidated by anything."

The Lions ran their annual beep test on Sunday, but it lacked the same drama it had for the previous two seasons. The test is for endurance as players run 20 yards back and forth, based on a beep sound that increases the tempo as the run goes on.

Undrafted rookie free-agent quarterback Todd Mortensen won it on Sunday, but many of the veterans didn't take part.

"We ran it already this week. The varsity ran it already," Mariucci said. "We did it as part of our conditioning one day this week. So I told them 'I need a few rabbits,' because the rookies hadn't seen it."

Story (http://www.mlive.com/lions/stories/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/1115028618266690.xml)

ALinChainz

05-02-2005, 02:15 PM

Monday, May 02, 2005

By Tom Kowalski

ALLEN PARK -- For a team that hasn't won more than six games in any of the last four seasons, the Detroit Lions are a confident bunch.

"We expect to be in there at the end of the season. Our goal is to win the division, which puts us in the playoffs and than you re-evaluate from there," said Lions quarterback Joey Harrington after the team completed its three-day minicamp on Sunday. "Step one is to get in (playoffs), and that step has never changed since the time coach (Steve) Mariucci has been here. I don't think it is really fair to say that our expectations are higher because our expectations have never been low. On the same end, we have a lot of new guys and a lot of young faces, so we are hoping we pick up on it pretty quickly."

The Lions' talent level is vastly different than it was last year. Wide receiver Roy Williams was hurt most of the year and running back Kevin Jones turned it on in the second half of the season. Wide receiver Charles Rogers missed all but three plays of the season and linebacker Boss Bailey never took a snap. Add in free-agent additions such as strong safety Kenoy Kennedy and tight end Marcus Pollard and rookies such as wide receiver Mike Williams and defensive tackle Shaun Cody and the Lions have a lot different look.

"Well, it was kind of an interesting weekend in the meetings and in the lunch room," Mariucci said. "There's a certain hunger, or eagerness, with this bunch that, not only do they want to be good, because that's always the case, but I think they think they really can be good."

There's no question the Lions have accumulated a great deal of talent. The next step is bringing those athletes together and melding them into a team.

"There's a lot more pieces in place now," Mariucci said. "Now, most of the work is going to be the development of these pieces. Putting them together, and getting them to play as a unit, understanding what we do, getting good at it and feeling confident in it."

Harrington is brimming with confidence already.

"As I look at us through our first few days of practice, it makes me feel pretty good. I am excited to see what we can do," Harrington said. "Our talent pool is bigger. We have more talent out there than I have seen in my last three years of being here. It is exciting to look out there and see those guys, knowing that if we get things on the same page we could have some fun."

Some of that fun came on Saturday afternoon when Roy Williams made a spectacular catch on a long throw from Harrington. Despite great coverage from cornerback Dre Bly, Williams snared the pass with just his right hand and then brought it behind his back where he grabbed it with both hands. Without breaking stride, Williams raced into the end zone.

Williams described it as "a lucky catch."

Mariucci said he watched the play several times on the practice film.

"The camera followed him all the way into the end zone," Mariucci said. "And then Roy, you could see through his Darth Vader visor, he was smiling, and the camera started shaking, because even the cameraman started laughing. Everybody in the building started laughing, because it was such an awesome catch. He does that, he makes lucky catches like that a lot."

"It was a great catch," Harrington said. "But, really, I expect to see more of those from him."

"Like I said earlier, not so much 'want' to be good, but I think the general feeling is they think they can be good and will be good," Mariucci said.

Booth Newspaper Story (http://www.mlive.com/lions/stories/index.ssf?/base/sports-1/1115028609266690.xml)

NATEDOG001976

05-03-2005, 04:05 AM

Lions sucks, Vikings rule!

NATEDOG001976

05-03-2005, 04:05 AM

Joey Harrington...muuuuhaha...lol

NightProwler

05-11-2005, 12:51 PM

I hope I live long enough to see the lions win ONE Super Bowl.

I doubt it will EVER happen.

ALinChainz

05-11-2005, 12:54 PM

Originally posted by NATEDOG001976
Lions sucks, Vikings rule!

That is some deep sports insight there dude ... I'm impressed.

ALinChainz

05-15-2005, 12:16 PM

Manning was a quick study

Harrington, take note: Colts quarterback took criticism early in his career and learned from it.

By Vartan Kupelian and Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

Marcus Pollard brings qualities to the Lions that could prove to be invaluable for a team that is trying to climb the standings with young legs.

The Lions will get leadership from Pollard, a 33-year-old tight end, and he'll add perspective from his 10 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts.

Pollard saw the Colts grow into contention twice. He was a rookie on the 1995 team that lost to Pittsburgh in the AFC championship game and an established player when the Colts drafted quarterback Peyton Manning first overall in 1998 to begin a rebuilding project.

Pollard's association with Manning offers an interesting reference point as Joey Harrington begins his fourth season with the Lions and his third as the full-time starting quarterback. Pollard has been a Lion for two months and a week since signing as a free agent, and he is well aware of the criticism Harrington gets -- some of it for the upbeat demeanor he presents in most interviews.

What was Manning like as a young player?

"When he first got there, it was a challenge," Pollard said in an interview this week.

"He had a certain way that he did it in college. He really got on the guys. He was in their face."

The fire-breathing, in-your-face quarterback might be popular fodder on the talk shows and with some fans, but it doesn't go over well with veteran players. The Colts' veterans had a sit-down with Manning and told him to cool it.

"With some veteran leaders around, they said, 'Everybody wants to win at this level,' " Pollard said. "'You don't have to be so demanding. You don't have to be in guys' faces.' A lot of guys don't respond well to that."

Manning is a quick study. He has learned more than how to read defenses. He took the advice to heart.

"He really took that criticism and learned from it," Pollard said. "Now, he's amazing."

Cash & Carry

Harrington's contract situation has created a buzz. He will be in the fourth year of a six-year contract in 2005, and a bonus payment of $3 million is due next month. His base salary for 2005 is $4.95 million.

Before the end of last season, Harrington said he was willing to restructure his contract if it gave the Lions any salary-cap problems.

Apparently, that won't be necessary. The Lions are prepared to carry Harrington's contract as it stands, president Matt Millen said.

"It's not an issue," Millen said. "We've already budgeted it."

The Detroit News (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0505/15/C02-181685.htm)

ALinChainz

05-20-2005, 01:53 PM

Lions rookie is Marshall anomaly

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Mention Marshall University in the NFL, and the response is predictable.

"They usually say, 'That's the school that Byron or Chad or Moss went to, right?' " said Lions rookie linebacker Johnathan Goddard. "Marshall's usually offensive guys, so they're like, 'What's going on?' "

Goddard gets that response because he plays defense, not offense.

Byron Leftwich, quarterback of the Jacksonville Jaguars and a first-round draft pick in 2003, is the most recent of the Marshall offensive whizzes.

Before that came New York Jets quarterback Chad Pennington, a first-round pick in 2000.

Wide receiver Randy Moss, recently traded by Minnesota to the Oakland Raiders, started the current run of Marshall players when he was drafted in the first round in 1998.

Now Goddard is hard at work with the rest of the rookies, hoping to show the Lions that Marshall defensive players are good enough to play in the NFL, too. He already has some evidence of that.

Rogers Beckett, a second-round draft pick out of Marshall in 2000, is a strong safety with the Cincinnati Bengals, and Chris Crocker, a third-round pick in 2003, is a free safety with the Cleveland Browns.

"There are some other ones," Goddard said. "They weren't big names like Leftwich and them, but they were good players."

And their presence in the NFL is encouraging to Goddard, who has set his sights on the NFL since he began playing Pop Warner football in Jacksonville, Fla., when he was 6 years old.

"It just shows you can do it if you work hard at it," he said. "It doesn't really matter what kind of school you go to as long as you show them you can go out there and play hard, keep it going. They'll come after you."

The Lions came after Goddard, but as a sixth-round pick and the last player they drafted, he faces an uphill battle to make the team.

Although he led the nation with 16 sacks and 28 1/2 tackles for loss as a defensive end in his final season at Marshall, Goddard will have to switch to linebacker with the Lions.

At a trace taller than 6 feet and weighing in at 238 pounds, Goddard doesn't have the size to battle 350-pound offensive tackles on the line of scrimmage.

He will have to use his quickness as a linebacker and a special-teams player.

In addition, he is being thrown into competition with a solid group of promising young linebackers the Lions have put together in the past three drafts.

Goddard thinks the most difficult adjustment will be handling pass coverage assignments as an outside linebacker. He said he had occasional coverage responsibilities at Marshall, but it was always part of a designed defense.

With the Lions, he will have to make instant decisions about whether to drop into coverage or handle other responsibilities.

"There's a lot of different things you're seeing now, different things you have to look at," Goddard said. "More people to read, dropping back in coverage.

"It's a little tough. I've got a good coach -- Johnny (Holland) -- and the rest of the linebackers are helping me out to make sure I get everything. It's a big adjustment, but I think I can get through it."

If Goddard fails, it won't be because he didn't give it his best shot. He started preparing last fall at Marshall.

"I studied the game a lot more than I had in the past," he said. "That helped me a lot -- going out there knowing what's going on with the cadence and the count. That helps a lot, helps you get off the ball quick.

"That was me wanting to go to the NFL, knowing I've got to study and get better at it, get better than I was already."

And he works at it, he said, because the game means a lot to him.

"It's real important to me," he said. "It's always in my dreams. I've been playing football since I was 6. I love the game; I don't know what I'd do without it."

ALinChainz

05-23-2005, 07:18 PM

Scout.com - Scout.com

May 23, 2005 at 2:04am ET

(ALLEN PARK) -- One of the areas coach Steve Mariucci and offensive coordinator Ted Tollner will be focused on as the Lions begin preparations for the 2005 NFL season is the team's red zone production.

Only two teams -- Jacksonville and Chicago -- were less effective than he Lions in converting its red zone possessions into touchdowns during the 2004 season.

The Bears converted only 16 of 38 red zone opportunities (42.1 percent) and Jacksonville was only slightly better with 19 touchdowns in 45 opportunities (42.2 percent).

And, the Lions -- at No. 30 among the league's 32 teams in red zone conversions -- turned just 44.2 percent of their opportunities into touchdowns. They had 43 red zone possessions but managed to score only 19 touchdowns on their way to 186 red zone points (including 18 field goals).

The Lions figure to improve on last year's performance with a more experienced running game (Kevin Jones is in his second season) and fewer drops by their receivers than the 50 recorded by the Lions coaching staff in 2004.

The Lions obviously have a long way to go to join the teams at the top of red zone efficiency -- San Diego (69.8 percent conversion) and Kansas City (67.8 percent).

ALinChainz

06-16-2005, 10:41 AM

Rookie's head swimming at WR

Williams learning difficulties of NFL

June 16, 2005

BY CURT SYLVESTER
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

After three weeks of minicamps, Mike Williams is getting the hang of it.

"The first minicamp I was probably in that playbook maybe 15 minutes," Williams said. "The second minicamp I was in that book maybe 20 or 30 minutes. The (last) minicamp, an hour or an hour and 10 or 15 minutes. And you're still messing up."

Welcome to the NFL, rookie.

Williams, the Lions' first pick in the draft, is learning just what's involved in playing any of four wide receiver positions in the NFL. And there's a whole lot more involved than meets the eye.

Although coach Steve Mariucci has him listed as the backup to Charles Rogers at the split end position, Williams is also learning the plays as the backup to flanker Roy Williams and he has also run plays from the slot position on both sides of the formation.

He has no complaints about his work load.

"It's kind of good that you put yourself in a position to play more," Williams said. "The more you know, the more coaches feel you can help them."

There is a frustration factor involved, however.

"You're playing as hard as you can and doing what you can do, and you're going the wrong way," Williams said. "When you're in practice they don't care that you mixed this play up with another position, because you're wasting everybody's time, you're wasting a rep.

"But when you get into the meeting room, they're like, 'Ah, we know you're still learning.' But I'd rather be where I'm at now. I'm glad I've had to learn so many positions and so much at one time."

Williams is making the adjustment to the NFL after missing a full year of football. He played just two seasons at Southern Cal and left school after the 2003 season, expecting to join running back Maurice Clarett of Ohio State in an early entry into the NFL.

When the courts ruled that Clarett could not be drafted, Williams also was excluded. He spent a considerable amount of time working with former Minnesota receiver Cris Carter in Florida, but the Lions' post-draft minicamps marked his first real training since his final game at USC.

Although it has been an adjustment, Williams might take comfort in knowing that his efforts are appreciated.

"You see flashes but there are mistakes made out there," quarterback Joey Harrington said. "That's to be expected. But, like I've said all along, what I really like is that the young guys are making an effort to learn from it.

"They make a mistake, they know they messed up and they come back and figure out what they can do better, then go out and fix it the next time. That's what you love to see. The young guys are working hard. I'm very encouraged by that."

Harrington is one of the teammates who helps the rookie receiver when he gets the chance. Fellow receivers Roy Williams and Rogers, who have been around only slightly longer than Mike Williams, also supplement the instruction he gets from receivers coach Fred Graves and offensive coordinator Ted Tollner.

"Coach Graves is on me," Mike Williams said. "He's that guy, he's on you like, 'You do this, yada yada yada.' Coach Tollner is like, 'C'mon, Mike, let's go.' And Roy and all those guys, you watch them do it and when you don't do it right, they pull you aside and say, 'Oh, you've got to do it this way.'

"When you're trying to learn, trying to do well, you've got to be receptive to every form of criticism from every angle. You get to the point where (cornerback) Dre' Bly will be like, 'You're open but you'd be more open if you did this.' It's a good situation to be in a good group of guys that want you to do well."

There's no doubt that his Lions teammates want Mike Williams to do well. Harrington already is visualizing Mike Williams, Roy Williams and Rogers in action when the Lions get into scoring territory next fall.

"Big targets," Harrington said. "I think it'll be good for us because they're big targets down in the end zone.

"We've struggled at times; we've had to settle for field goals sometimes when we didn't make plays down there. And having guys like that -- who can screen out the defender and you can throw a high ball to -- will really help out."

Mike Williams might not be there yet, but he's getting the idea. Check back in September; the Lions expect he'll be ready to go.

POJO_Risin

06-16-2005, 11:04 AM

Their red zone offense should be incredible with Williams and Pollard and really Rogers...added to the mix...

ALinChainz

06-16-2005, 11:18 AM

Roy and Mike Williams ... Pollard ... a hopefully healthy Rogers ... Kevin Johnson .... and RB Kevin Jones ....

I know I'm freakin' STOKED.

:)

POJO_Risin

06-16-2005, 11:24 AM

I do hope for your sake that Harrington can look good now...because if Garcia is your starter...I still contend that there will be trouble afoot in Lion land...

ALinChainz

06-16-2005, 11:31 AM

Hopefully ... we did upgrade the line also in free agency.

Hell, the real QB of the future may be the 6-5 230 Orvolosky (sp) out of UConn we drafted in the 5th I believe.

This being Joey's 4th season, even with the youth at the skill positions, he has to come through. Brees finally made some noise, hoping Joey will.

ALinChainz

06-20-2005, 01:40 PM

Lions Secondary Will Enter Camp Strong As Ever

Scout.com - Scout.com
June 20, 2005 at 11:28am ET

With the addition of seven-year veteran R.W. McQuarters to the roster, the Lions will go to training camp next month assured of stiff competition at the cornerback position.

With the addition of seven-year veteran R.W. McQuarters to the roster, the Lions will go to training camp next month assured of stiff competition at the cornerback position.

The roster will include 10 cornerbacks. Five of them have started at one time or another in the NFL and another three are young players the Lions feel can develop into capable players.

At the top of the list are two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Dre' Bly , McQuarters and Fernando Bryant , who was signed by the Lions as an unrestricted free agent a year ago but missed much of the 2004 season with an ankle injury.

Next in line are Andre Goodman and Chris Cash , three year veterans drafted in 2002 who have had limited success - in part because of injury problems.

Keith Smith , a third-round pick in the 2004 draft, made a good impression as a rookie and is almost certain to make the roster; Stanley Wilson , this year's third-round pick, has excellent speed and promising coverage ability; and Michael Echols, a third-year player plucked from Minnesota's practice squad late last season.

Jeff Sanchez , who played in NFL Europe this spring, and undrafted rookie Brandon Payne of New Mexico, have their work cut out for them just to get consideration for the practice squad.

The Lions also added veteran strong safety Kenoy Kennedy , an unrestricted free agent from Denver, to the secondary.

"This is the best our defensive backs have looked in a long time," said Lions president Matt Millen.

Warham

06-20-2005, 02:59 PM

I had no idea they signed McQuarters.

ALinChainz

06-20-2005, 04:41 PM

They felt it better to go that route as he has played some safety also than to gamble on Ty Law, who was 20 lbs overweight but had started running. The Lions know Law wants still the prime CB money, although not sure what team would.

The foot is still a question. McQuarters playing for Mooch before didn't hurt. And the fact they are at a standstill with KR Eddie Drummond might have had some influence.

ALinChainz

06-26-2005, 12:26 PM

Mariucci Claims Off-Season "By Far" Team's Best

Scout.com - Scout.com

June 26, 2005 at 1:02am ET

(ALLEN PARK) -- After four years and a steady diet of losing game after game, it might take more than personnel changes to get the Lions back to respectability. And that is what coach Steve Mariucci has been working on during the six months since the end of the 2004 NFL season.

Mariucci is hoping to establish a new attitude on this year's team, in addition to getting his players physically prepared for the start of training camp in late July and the regular season in September.

"I think these guys are very in tune to what sort of calendar year we expect from them in terms of the entire body at work," Mariucci said. "From the 14 weeks in the off-season through the mini-camps, through being in shape before they get to training camp, the certain tempo in the way we practice and developing a certain work ethic."

Although Lions coaches seem to inevitably say "this year's" off-season workouts are the best ever, it has done little for the team's fortunes the past four years.

The Lions were 2-14 in 2001, 3-13 in 2002, 5-11 in 2003 and 6-10 last year. Although there has been improvement every year, it is at a pace that won't get them back to .500 for two more seasons and into a contender's role for another two or three years after that.

In Mariucci's third season, he is hoping that the combination of physical preparation and mental attitude will accelerate the pace of the Lions return to respectability.

"A system and a philosophy have to be ingrained and we are doing that, and we have done that," he said. "There are new faces every year to incorporate but I have been really pleased with this off-season so far this has been by far our best off-season."

DrMaddVibe

06-30-2005, 09:27 AM

Mooch has his hands full and no Walsh looking from topside to bail him out...only sad sack Millen!

He'll be outta there this season.

ALinChainz

06-30-2005, 10:17 AM

The Fords love these guys and are notoriously loyal, they won't be gone before their contracts are up. And I believe they want to resign Millen, who has done a good job with building the team through the draft.

DrMaddVibe

07-01-2005, 08:41 AM

Originally posted by ALinChainz
The Fords love these guys and are notoriously loyal, they won't be gone before their contracts are up. And I believe they want to resign Millen, who has done a good job with building the team through the draft.

????

WHAT!

The Ford's are a collection of dolts that couldn't be trusted with the "keys" to the automotive empire so they went out and bought a toy for them to get them out of their hair!

They don't care about wins and losses. They only care about attendance and concession revenue!

As far as loyalty...I could go on and on and on about how they've shafted everyone they could from players to coaches! They don't know the meaning of the word. Everyone is viewed as a gardner to them. "You're paid help...don't tell me what to do and don't talk to me!".

If they cared about their fans then they would've won something, but they don't and it clearly shows. Their draft picks are the same tried and true bullshit smoke and mirrors that Wayne Fontes was doing way back when. CB, LB, QB, RB...try picking up an entire offensive line you fucking idiots!!!

The Lions will NEVER go anywhere near the Promised Land with the likes of the Ford family at the helm...just remember you heard it here.

Warham

07-01-2005, 06:03 PM

The Lions were near the Promised Land in '91, but were run over in the NFC title game by the Redskins. I remember it well. We destroyed Dallas in the playoffs that year, 38-6. It might just well be my favorite game in Lions history. I loved the look on Jimmy Johnson's face. Of course, he went on to bigger and better things...

DrMaddVibe

07-01-2005, 10:33 PM

I was at that game!

I can STILL remember the "Welcome to the jungle baby...you're gonna DIIIIIIIIIE!" as they took Aikman off of the field!

THAT was the pinnacle of a superior defense and an offense that gelled. Fontes wasn't the dope everyone made him out to be as nobody has come close since he left.

Now, the QBs...har-dee-har-har!!! What a collection of loose bolts! Even their current "QB"!

J-O-K-E!!!

ALinChainz

07-04-2005, 12:11 AM

Originally posted by DrMaddVibe
????

WHAT!

The Ford's are a collection of dolts that couldn't be trusted with the "keys" to the automotive empire so they went out and bought a toy for them to get them out of their hair!

They don't care about wins and losses. They only care about attendance and concession revenue!

As far as loyalty...I could go on and on and on about how they've shafted everyone they could from players to coaches! They don't know the meaning of the word. Everyone is viewed as a gardner to them. "You're paid help...don't tell me what to do and don't talk to me!".

If they cared about their fans then they would've won something, but they don't and it clearly shows. Their draft picks are the same tried and true bullshit smoke and mirrors that Wayne Fontes was doing way back when. CB, LB, QB, RB...try picking up an entire offensive line you fucking idiots!!!

The Lions will NEVER go anywhere near the Promised Land with the likes of the Ford family at the helm...just remember you heard it here.

Been watching the Lions since '74.

I've probably heard it before.

But I'll try to remember.

ALinChainz

07-10-2005, 07:07 PM

Preseason tickets go on sale today

Detroit Free Press

July 10, 2005

Individual game tickets for the Lions' preseason games at Ford Field go on sale at 10 a.m. today, the team said. Approximately 3,000 tickets for each of the two games -- vs. Cleveland at 1 p.m. Aug. 20 and vs. St. Louis at 8 p.m. Aug. 29 -- will be available at the Ford Field ticket office and at TicketMaster outlets. Tickets can also be purchased by phone at 248-645-6666 via TicketMaster or on the Internet at Detroitlions.com/tickets or ticketmaster.com.

http://www.freep.com

VonHalen

07-14-2005, 06:36 PM

bary sanders was smart, leaving the game when he did

ALinChainz

07-16-2005, 11:12 AM

Lions sign draftees

Detroit Free Press
July 16, 2005

The Lions signed two sixth-round draft choices -- defensive end Bill Swancutt and linebacker Johnathan Goddard -- to three-year deals. Swancutt (6-feet-4, 265 pounds) was selected 184th overall out of Oregon State, where he started 38 consecutive games and recorded 181 tackles (140 solo), 37 sacks and 59.5 tackles for losses. Goddard (6-0, 242) was selected 206th overall out of Marshall. He started 36 games and made 65.5 stops for losses (276 yards) for the Thundering Herd.

http://www.freep.com

Warham

07-16-2005, 02:48 PM

Originally posted by VonHalen
bary sanders was smart, leaving the game when he did

Yep, and he just did a commercial with Elway, Allen, and another guy.

ALinChainz

07-19-2005, 05:49 PM

Lions | ESPN's Berman to Keynote Award Dinner
Mon, 18 Jul 2005 22:13:47 -0700

DetroitLions.com reports the 12th annual Detroit Lions Courage House Dinner will feature ESPN sportscaster Chris Berman as its special keynote speaker. The event will be held at Ford Field November 1, 2005. In addition to the presentation of the Detroit Lions Courage Award to a current Lions' player, a special award also will be presented to Roger Penske, chairman of Penske Corporation and the Super Bowl XL Host Committee. Penske will receive the Courage House Community Award for his years of service to both sports and the community.

Warham

07-19-2005, 06:23 PM

Chris Berman? Ugh!

ALinChainz

07-20-2005, 10:59 AM

Reality show stars Lions rookie

Detroit Free Press
July 20, 2005

This has to be a general manager's worst nightmare: A would-be NFL player shows up at the Senior Bowl with NINE agents in tow.

Who's your agent?

We got a sneak peak at "Super Agent," the reality show that debuts Friday night on Spike TV, and it was pretty much all talk.
But talking is pretty much all agents do, isn't it, so what kinds of competitions can the show have?

"There were a few mud-wrestling episodes," said Lions rookie Shaun Cody, the star of the show. "Just kidding."

Too bad. OK, then how about they have the would-be agents demonstrate their:

• Endurance: Who can spend the most time on a cell phone and still act like they're talking about something important?

• Speed: Who's fastest at demanding to renegotiate after agreeing to a contract?

• Agility: Who can negotiate a buyout for his client and still claim he was fired?

But it must not have bothered the Lions; they drafted Southern Cal defensive tackle Shaun Cody in the second round, anyway.
Actually, the nine were just Cody's would-be agents. Only one of them -- the winner of "Super Agent," the Spike TV reality show that debuts at 10 p.m. Friday -- would end up representing him.

Each week, the contestants compete to impress Cody with their agenting skills, and each week he boots one of them off the show until a winner was picked in time for the draft.

It's sort of like "The Apprentice" meets "Jerry Maguire." Or, "The Bachelor" meets "Arli$$."

Of course picking a potential wife on a reality show is one thing, but an agent? Is that prudent?

"He's negotiating my contract as we speak," Cody said Tuesday, adding he expects to be in camp on time, and he's thrilled to be a Lion.

Cody said producers recruited him because he was projected to be a high pick and also West Coast-based.

He said doing the show -- hosted by Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez -- was fun but hectic as he was preparing for the NFL combine and interviewing with teams.

"Plus doing a TV show on the side was pretty tough," Cody said. "Some nights it ran pretty long, 2 or 3 in the morning. That's when I was like, 'Oh, why'd I do this show?' "

In Friday's episode, Cody first meets all nine agents in one room. (It kind of put us in the mind of "Fear Factor," when a contestant is covered with cockroaches.)

Then the agents were split into groups of three to come up with three proposals of why they should represent Cody, though team-building seemed a bit lost on them.

"The other guys are a joke," Tim McIlwain of the Veritas Group said of his teammates.

"You don't make a presentation to a guy that you want to sign with two people you want to kill."

In Episode 2, the agents spend time with two of Cody's relatives, one of whom says, "They all suck. They were horrible."

Hey, reality TV isn't pretty.

•To be fair to NFL agents, the Associated Press reports one of the most powerful, Drew Rosenhaus, helped save a boy pulled unconscious from a Disney World pool by performing CPR on him. "I dropped my phone, which is pretty rare," said Rosenhaus, a lifeguard in his youth. "It was nice to be a good guy for once."

By Steve Schrader

VonHalen

07-20-2005, 04:41 PM

ook

ALinChainz

07-23-2005, 01:45 PM

Lions: Wilson signs on for three years

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com
Saturday, July 23, 2005

News

The Lions signed rookie cornerback Stanley Wilson to a three-year contract on Friday. The deal is worth roughly $1.5 million and includes a signing bonus of approximately $575,000, according to the Detroit News. As a three-year starter at Stanford, Wilson logged five interceptions.

Views

Wilson is the son of the former Bengals running back of the same name. The elder Wilson is spending his days in a correctional facility following a long history of problems with substance abuse. The younger Wilson has a good relationship with his father and has received plenty of media attention for his feel-good story.

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 01:29 AM

Another losing season isn't an option for Lions

The personnel is better and expectations are greater, so the pressure will be more intense.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Inching upward in the standings with baby steps has been an excruciating test of patience for the Lions. It has been a long march inside the boundaries of mediocrity, fueled by hope but blunted by the reality of results.

The Lions have had a string of losing records and losing streaks since their last playoff appearance, in 1999, and their last winning record, in 2000.

It ought to be different in 2005. It has to be. A fifth straight losing season would be unacceptable.

At this stage of their development, the Lions cannot consider anything less than a winning record and making the playoffs a successful season. They have taken too many baby steps in the last four years -- from a 2-14 record in 2001 to 3-13, 5-11 and 6-10.

It is time to take a big jump. The Lions have assembled enough good players to contend for the NFC North title, but they must prove their value on the field. From the moment they begin their first training-camp practice Friday morning, they will feel pressure on a number of fronts.

Steve Mariucci is aware of higher expectations and increased pressure to win in his third season as coach. The Lions ought to thrive on it, he said.

"That's why we do this," Mariucci said recently.

"You've got to love it. That is what you strive for.

"You strive for high expectations. Everything you do is to build a team that is capable of winning games and expected to win games and feels like they could or should.

"That's why we practice, train, draft and acquire players. We are getting to a point where we are assembling a good group of guys."

No player will be under the spotlight more than quarterback Joey Harrington.

He has started 44 games in three seasons since the Lions drafted him in the first round in 2002. He also has taken his lumps, from media and fans, and Mariucci has not been vocal very often in supporting him. For the first time, there is real pressure from within.

The Lions signed Jeff Garcia -- a three-time Pro Bowl player who was with Mariucci in San Francisco -- to be the backup quarterback. Garcia's presence has prompted speculation that Mariucci will not be reluctant to replace Harrington if he has a slump.

Garcia certainly offers a better alternative than Mike McMahon, who has signed with Philadelphia. McMahon was the backup the last three years.

Harrington showed improvement in 2004, with 19 touchdown passes against 12 interceptions. His receivers dropped more than 50 passes, which hurt his statistics and short-circuited the offense.

Quarterback isn't the only position on the Lions' roster that will be under scrutiny. Other areas to watch include the following:

• Receivers: A young, talented core, largely untested in the pros.

Roy Williams caught 54 passes and scored eight touchdowns as a rookie in 2004, despite playing most of the season on an injured left ankle. A twice-broken right collarbone cost Charles Rogers 15 games in 2004 and 11 in '03.

The Lions took Mike Williams of Southern California in the first round. He's a big, powerful athlete with great hands, but he did not play a game in 2004 because of an NCAA suspension related to challenging the NFL's underclass draft. A lot is being asked, and expected, of players with so little pro experience.

The best hands on the team might belong to Kevin Johnson, a free agent signed in April.

Although some see the influx of talent -- including tight end Marcus Pollard -- as putting more pressure on Harrington, he views it as an asset. And he should.

• Offensive line: Rick DeMulling, a starter in Indianapolis, is the new left guard. Right tackle is the unproven spot. Kelly Butler, who did not appear in a game as a rookie in '04, is the top candidate to start.

• Running back: It should be no problem for Kevin Jones to improve on his rookie performance of 1,133 yards. He started slowly, in part because of an ankle injury. There is strong depth at tailback and fullback, with Artose Pinner, Shawn Bryson, Cory Schlesinger and Jamel White.

• Linebackers: Boss Bailey's return from a knee injury that caused him to miss all of last season adds depth but creates potential for position changes.

Bailey was the Lions' best linebacker as the strong-side starter. Rookie Teddy Lehman took Bailey's spot last year. Lehman could be headed to the middle, to compete with Earl Holmes, or the weak side, where James Davis started.

• Defensive line: Second-round pick Shaun Cody could help an established unit as an inside pass-rusher. The condition of starting tackle Dan Wilkinson is a question. He is going into his 12th season. After his first trip to the Pro Bowl last season, Shaun Rogers is finally playing to the potential the Lions had envisioned.

• Secondary: Only one starter from last year is absolutely solid -- right cornerback Dré Bly, who has made the Pro Bowl in both seasons as a Lion. Kenoy Kennedy is the new strong safety, and Terrence Holt will get first shot at free safety.

Fernando Bryant struggled at left cornerback because of injuries last year. R.W. McQuarters, a free agent from Chicago with experience at cornerback and safety, will push for a job. The Lions gave up 29 touchdown passes in 2004. Only five teams allowed more.

• Offensive coordinator Ted Tollner: He is an important addition to Mariucci's staff. His background indicates a greater propensity than Mariucci to throw the ball downfield.

The Lions won't scrap the West Coast offense. It remains their basic design. But the limits will be expanded, and it will be interesting to see how quickly it develops.

Super Bowl XL will be played at Ford Field on Feb. 5. With all its glamour and hype, the Super Bowl is the biggest jewel in North American sports and entertainment.

It is a magnet for attention, and the Lions cannot be the NFL's castoffs this season with the championship game in their town.

It adds another bit of pressure on the Lions

Detroit News Story (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0507/24/C01-257482.htm)

DrMaddVibe

07-24-2005, 04:08 PM

^^^LOL!!!^^^

Every year its the same canned response. "Clean slate", "We have to do it", "It's our year", "We've got the missing piece".

Harrington blows and is yet another Lions bust at the QB position. The coaching du jour is pathetic and its apparent that they're taking marching orders from the front office.

It's been the same way forever with Detroit. Some people learn and move on and some want to hold out for perpetual hope! At least there's Hockey in Detroit this year!

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 04:28 PM

What has Harrington had by way of pplayers around him since he's got to Detroit?

What kind of receivers, running game, or offensive line?

He hasn't had any kind of depth or quality until this year.

Might want to gets some facts straight before just making ignorant assumptions based on opinion.

Could he suck this year? Sure he could. But he hasn't had what a QB needs to even come close before.

DrMaddVibe

07-24-2005, 04:44 PM

It's got nothing to do with who's around him.

He sucks. PERIOD! Another top pick wasted while the rest of the league moves on.

Nice try.

Hope springs eternal...even for fools!

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 05:04 PM

Nice how you back all that up with some facts.

Don't waste my time if you don't have a clue, of course it has everything to do with it.

No receivers, no running game or line and Marty Moerninwheg?

Look at the roster from the time he got here, and the coaching staff.

Gimme a break.

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 05:05 PM

David Carr was taken #1, 2 spots before Harrington.

Who's stats are better?

Have the Texans moved on?

Look at Harrington's numbers in each of his first 3 seasons, improved every year and 19 TD with 12 INT last season, and a final 3 game stretch where he had what, 2 300 yard games?

Drew Brees sucked until year 4 also, then he went to the Pro Bowl.

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 05:08 PM

Besides, the thread is for Lion fans.

You don't like them, stay out of the thread.

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 09:42 PM

Lions | Kaleita Looks to Land a Roster Spot
Sun, 24 Jul 2005 11:22:42 -0700

Mark Urban, of the Record-Eagle, reports Detroit Lions rookie OL Tom Kaleita is looking to land a roster spot with the Lions. He'll be reporting to training camp Thursday, July 27, to join his teammates. He comes into the Lions' training camp with a go-for-broke attitude in an attempt to make the 53-man roster. The undrafted rookie free agent thinks he's with the right team for his quest. None of Detroit's six draft picks from the NFL draft were offensive linemen. Two rookie linemen have already been cut from the squad. "I have a good shot - I think a better shot than I would have anywhere else," Kaleita said. "It's a matter of performance and how bad I want it." The Lions are expected to open training camp with 90 players, so Kaleita knows the challenge he faces. "The biggest thing is the longer I'm there, the better opportunity I have to make it in the NFL," he said, "even if I do get cut with the Lions. Physically, Kaleita said he's ready for training camp to start. "I can't wait to put on the pads," he said. "That'll be the first test."

http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl

Warham

07-24-2005, 11:30 PM

Law continues rehab, still seeking new team
Len Pasquarelli

In what could be a significant step toward his planned return to the
NFL, free agent cornerback Ty Law will work out on Monday for Detroit Lions management officials and coaches, his second visit with the team this offseason.

The four-time Pro Bowl performer, released by the New England Patriots in February, has been rehabilitating his surgically-repaired left foot in Miami. The injury limited the 10-year veteran to just seven appearances in 2004 and he finished the season on the injured reserve list.

The session in Detroit will be at least the second recent workout for Law, who had a June 22 workout in Jacksonville for Jaguars officials.

It is not known how extensive the audition will be. But if the Lions are serious about the possibility of pursuing Law, they likely will want to see him make hard cuts as they try to determine exactly where he stands in his recovery. Law has said in recent weeks that he is close to being 100 percent recovered from the injury.

Last week, Lisa Kearns of the Miami-based SportFit Rehab and Training, the physical therapist and exercise physiologist who has been working with Law for months now, told ESPN.com that she felt the star cornerback was very close to being able to audition for any interested suitors. Kearns said she was confident Law would play in the NFL in 2005 and would perform at a high level.

"He's just about there [in his recovery]," said Kearns. "He's able to make hard cuts now and we've just got to turn that up some. But I think he looks just great."

That sentiment was echoed by another Kearns client, former Cleveland quarterback Tim Couch, who recently threw to Law during one of his own rehabilitation sessions.

"I don't want to place a percentage on where I feel like he is," said Couch. "That wouldn't be fair to him. But I know that he looked good and he moved well. [It's] just my opinion, but I think he'll be a big-time player again."

About a half-dozen franchises, with varying degrees of interest and potential commitment financially, have continued to monitor Law's rehabilitation. Agent Carl Poston told The Boston Globe that he has received contract proposals from some clubs, and characterized the offers as varying between "hamburger and filet mignon." Law has reiterated several times during his recovery that he will not sign a minimum salary contract.

The Lions have not been mentioned lately as one of the teams still chasing Law. But if the veteran cornerback performs well in his workout, Detroit could become serious about him. The Lions have one Pro Bowl-caliber cornerback in Dre Bly and their other starter, Fernando Bryant is viewed as a solid defender, but one coming off a subpar season that was affected by injuries.

Detroit signed veteran free agent cornerback R.W. McQuarters two months ago, after he was released by the Chicago Bears, and invested a third-round draft choice on former Stanford corner Stanley Wilson.

Law, 31, has 36 career interceptions and 122 passes defensed in 141 games, all with New England, which selected the former University of Michigan star in the first round of the 1995 draft.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?id=2115678

ALinChainz

07-24-2005, 11:49 PM

He is looking for more money than the Lions can afford ... I don't know how they would pull it off ... maybe they can.

He needs to be 100% health wise for sure.

Matt White

07-24-2005, 11:52 PM

Another interesting LIONS season..........

I'll say 9-7, maybe 8-8.

ALinChainz

07-25-2005, 02:01 PM

Lions plan to meet with Law today

BY CURT SYLVESTER, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER
July 25, 2005

With training camp only three days away, the Lions apparently are interested in making a pitch for four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Ty Law.

Lions vice president Bill Keenist confirmed Sunday evening that Law is scheduled to visit the team's headquarters in Allen Park today for a physical and a workout.

Law, 31, is recovering from a broken foot and subsequent surgery that cost him most of the 2004 NFL season. He was released by the New England Patriots, with whom he played 10 seasons, for salary cap reasons last spring.

Lions president Matt Millen met with Law in early May -- shortly after Law had begun running as part of his recovery program -- and maintained the Lions were still interested after they signed cornerback R. W. McQuarters on June 10.

Law, a former University of Michigan defensive back, reportedly turned down a four-year, $26-million offer from the Patriots a year ago and still has his sights set on a more lucrative deal. The Lions are one of eight teams believed to be interested in Law.

Lions veterans are scheduled to report for training camp Thursday with the first two-a-day workouts set for Friday.

Warham

07-25-2005, 04:34 PM

If he's healthy, the Lions would have a good secondary...finally.

ALinChainz

07-25-2005, 06:22 PM

Lions | Law Completes Workout
Mon, 25 Jul 2005 12:27:29 -0700

The Associated Press reports free agent CB Ty Law (Patriots) worked out for the Detroit Lions Monday morning, July 25. He also took a physical and met with Lions' head coach Steve Mariucci and president Matt Millen, team spokesman Bill Keenist said. "He looks great," one of Law's agents, Kevin Poston, said while watching Law work out for the Lions.

Lions | Orlovsky Signing Official
Mon, 25 Jul 2005 13:05:00 -0700

Updating previous reports, DetroitLions.com reports the Detroit Lions have officially signed rookie QB Dan Orlovsky. He was the team's fifth-round draft pick in the April NFL draft.

Lions | Wilson Signing Official
Mon, 25 Jul 2005 12:59:06 -0700

Updating previous reports, DetroitLions.com reports the Detroit Lions have officially signed rookie CB Stanley Wilson. He was the team's third-round draft pick in the April NFL draft.

http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl

ALinChainz

07-25-2005, 06:43 PM

Detroit Lions

Key veteran additions: OLG Rick DeMulling; QB Jeff Garcia; WR Kevin Johnson; SS Kenoy Kennedy; OL Kyle Kosier; DB R.W. McQuarters; TE Marcus Pollard.

Key veteran departures: TE Stephen Alexander; WR Az-Zahir Hakim; S Brock Marion; ORT Stockar McDougle; QB Mike McMahon; WR Reggie Swinton; S Brian Walker.

Most significant change: Signing the veteran Garcia was a not-so-subtle hint to starting QB Joey Harrington that his margin for error has been greatly reduced. Garcia, a three-time Pro Bowler in a similar system with San Francisco, will threaten if Harrington stumbles out of the gate.

Reasons for optimism: On paper, the Lions have quite an impressive array of talent on both sides of the ball. RB Kevin Jones led the NFL in rushing over the final eight games of his rookie season and is a great asset, as is the trio of first-round picks at wideout and TE Pollard, to Harrington's development. The defense, solid if unspectacular with DT Shaun Rogers as its anchor, gets SLB Boss Bailey back from injury and added Kennedy and McQuarters.

Causes for concern: The Lions lack a dangerous pass-rush threat to pressure opposing quarterbacks such as Brett Favre and Daunte Culpepper. The secondary could have three new starters, including both safeties, Terrence Holt and Kennedy. Other than Bailey, the Lions don't know what the LB corps will look like in Week 1. MLB Earl Holmes and WLB James Davis must win their jobs in training camp with second-year LBs Teddy Lehman and Alex Lewis fighting for more time.

Battle to watch: Competition should be fierce at defensive end opposite unheralded James Hall. Cory Redding took the majority of the snaps at the end in 2004, but rookie Bill Swancutt and veteran Kalimba Edwards are better athletes with more natural pass-rush skills. Rookie second-round pick Shaun Cody might slide to end at times, but the Lions prefer to use the agile big man in tandem with Rogers.

Don't be surprised if … Harrington establishes himself as the clear-cut starter early in camp. He's expected to see extended action in preseason contests, and the Lions want to see Harrington's "A" game starting with the exhibition opener at the Jets on Aug. 12.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp05/news/story?id=2115813&num=3

DrMaddVibe

07-25-2005, 08:03 PM

"the Lions want to see Harrington's "A" game"

They've been paying for it and all they get is a C+ at best!

Har-dee-har-Harrington!

DrMaddVibe

07-25-2005, 08:04 PM

Kircus ordered to pay fines for driving drunk
Detroit Free Press
July 23, 2005

Lions wide receiver David Kircus was ordered to pay $850 in fines and court costs for driving drunk. Hudsonville District Judge Kenneth D. Post also sentenced Kircus to one day of jail, with credit for one day served at the time of his arrest. The former star at Grand Valley State pleaded guilty July 6 to a misdemeanor count of operating under the influence of alcohol.

Former Lions safety Julius Curry has been ordered by a Warren judge to stand trial on accusations of bilking a woman out of $50,000 in a real estate transaction. Curry, 26, who was with the Green Bay Packers last season, has pleaded innocent to obtaining money under false pretenses over $20,000. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison.

ALinChainz

07-25-2005, 09:29 PM

If you don't like the Lions, stay out of the thread.

Warham

07-25-2005, 10:50 PM

It looks like Detroit is serious about signing Law.

ALinChainz

07-29-2005, 02:05 PM

STATE OF THE LIONS: Mariucci sees winning signs

July 29, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Steve Mariucci paused, tapped on the table and considered the questions. What is he really eager to see? What is he really eager to have answered?

"I guess I'm just eager to see how fast this team can come," he said Thursday before the first team meeting of training camp. "I think it's going to be a lot of fun to watch, to see how fast this team can play some real good football."

For Lions fans, things have moved excruciatingly slowly since Matt Millen took over as team president in 2001. The Lions went 2-14 in 2001 and 3-13 in '02 with coach Marty Mornhinweg, then 5-11 in '03 and 6-10 in '04.

But it's 2005 now, and Mariucci said he wouldn't talk to his players about anything but "this team and this team only."

The Lions take the field for the first time this morning with more talent and depth than they've had in years. They have the potential to make a jump.

With the Super Bowl at Ford Field this season, it might be fun to dream about making it that far for the first time, about becoming the first team to have home-field advantage. Heck, just two years ago, after 1-15 and 7-9 seasons, Carolina went 11-5 and made the Super Bowl.

Although this is the time of year for wild optimism, Mariucci wouldn't bite on that. He pointed out how the Detroit newspapers had been running countdowns to the Super Bowl and said his players didn't need to be reminded about it.

"They know," he said. "They know the days left to training camp's a big zero. That's what they're focused on."

Mariucci wouldn't set any specific bar. But making the playoffs for the first time since 1999 is a realistic goal.

"You know I don't make any predictions, I don't give you any numbers," he said. "But ... the foundation has really been put into place. We've been working for several years to put a lot of pieces of this puzzle together, and boy, we're right ... we're getting there, and it's going to be fun."

To be sure, the Lions have issues.

Every move quarterback Joey Harrington makes will be scrutinized, and veteran backup Jeff Garcia, who had success with Mariucci in San Francisco, provides an option.

Every time receiver Charles Rogers and linebacker Boss Bailey so much as brush anything, people will wince, at least for a while. Rogers missed most of the last two seasons with a broken collarbone; Bailey missed last season with an injured knee. Mariucci said Rogers would not wear a red jersey protecting him from contact, but Bailey would start camp limited to one session a day.

The Lions have uncertainty at offensive right tackle. Mariucci said 2004 sixth-round draft pick Kelly Butler would be given every opportunity to win the job over free-agent signee Kyle Kosier, who started 29 games for San Francisco in the past three seasons.

But a lot of the Lions' problems are relatively pleasant. At wide receiver, defensive line, linebacker and in the secondary, they have more good players than spots available.

And in Mariucci's words, the players have "that look in their eye." He lauded their work ethic. He even praised right guard Damien Woody, who came into camp overweight last year. Mariucci said Woody was in much better shape now.

"During the off-season program, when I know a lot of their friends were out golfing down South or wherever, they were here going like crazy, and it's for a reason," Mariucci said. "They want to be the team that makes a lot of noise here for Detroit, and I like that and I really feel that."

ALinChainz

07-29-2005, 02:13 PM

Lions sign second-round pick Cody to four-year deal

Friday, July 29, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

About 15 minutes into the Lions’ first practice of training camp this morning, second-round pick Shaun Cody ran into the field and joined his fellow defensive lineman.

He had just signed a four-year contract, leaving first-round pick Mike Williams and Pro Bowl kick returner Eddie Drummond as the only absentees.

Coach Steve Mariucci said the Lions might bring in another receiver for Saturday morning’s practice, because without Williams and Drummond they had only eight receivers.

The Lions worked out in shirts and shorts in pleasant, sunny weather. They planned to put on shoulder pads this afternoon and don full pads for the first time Saturday morning.

Mariucci was pleased with the condition of his players – from right guard Damien Woody to cornerback Dre’ Bly.

“We look like we’re in pretty darn good shape,” Mariucci said. “These guys look like they’re in the top shape of their careers, and I like that.”

ALinChainz

07-29-2005, 02:15 PM

LIONS NOTEBOOK: Drummond headed for holdout

July 29, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

When the Lions held their first team meeting of training camp at 5 p.m. Thursday, Eddie Drummond, Mike Williams and Shaun Cody were absent.

The Lions hoped to get Cody signed Thursday night so he could be on the field for the first practice this morning. They were working on a deal for Williams and didn't think he would miss much. And they were disappointed Drummond ended up holding out on the advice of his agent.

Cody, a defensive tackle the Lions took in the second round, was in the Detroit area so he would be ready to report as soon as a deal was done. Coach Steve Mariucci said the sides were "very close." Agent Harold Lewis said they would be talking into the night.

Williams, a wide receiver the Lions took in the first round, was at home in Tampa. But his agents were at Lions headquarters in Allen Park to meet with executive vice president Tom Lewand.

"I know they've been working like crazy ... and I know they're making progress," Mariucci said. "It's just a matter of getting it completed. I think it'll happen here soon. He might miss a day. I don't know."

Drummond, a Pro Bowl kick returner, was in the Detroit area and wanted to get situated, but his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told him not to report, according to Mariucci.

A one-year tender worth more than $1.4 million has been on the table, but Drummond wants a multiyear deal. The sides have discussed one, and the Lions are willing to keep talking if Drummond signs the tender, but they don't seem in a hurry to lock him up long-term because of his injury history.

"Eddie's been here working like crazy and doing great, and I know he wants to be here," Mariucci said. "It's a matter of Drew Rosenhaus agreeing with something. It doesn't make any sense for him not to be here. ...

"Really, I just shake my head on some of these. Why an agent would ask a client to hold out sometimes baffles me."

Asked if he and Drummond would consider signing the tender and keep discussing a multiyear deal, Rosenhaus said, "That is a consideration, but right now our preference is ... well, we'll consider all options. We continue to talk to the team and hopefully get this resolved as soon as possible."

Asked about Mariucci's comments, Rosenhaus said: "All I can say is, I don't have any comment with respect to that."

Wide receiver Roy Williams also missed the team meeting. He had to take care of some personal issues and was flying to Detroit on Thursday night, Mariucci said.

ALinChainz

07-29-2005, 02:17 PM

Drummond is a kick returner.

A damn good one mind you, but a kick returner. He doesn't play any WR for the Lions. And has some injury history also.

And at the tender offer of $1.4 million, you'd think he'd be in camp. Not many at that position make that coin.

Rosenhaus is ridiculous.

Warham

07-29-2005, 04:48 PM

The Lions always had good luck finding guys to return kicks: Mel Gray, Desmond Howard, Eddie Drummond...They'll find someone else if he bails.

ALinChainz

07-30-2005, 02:18 PM

Training camp opens: Joey vs. Jeff -- Day 1

July 30, 2005

First impressions during the Lions' first day of training camp:

•The competition at quarterback was ... not so hot. After a decent morning, Joey Harrington and Jeff Garcia both made some bad throws. But hey, first day.

•Joey and Jeff seem to be getting along all right. As they warmed up, tossing balls back and forth, Jeff was talking and Joey was laughing.

•The play of the day was a catch by wide receiver Scottie Vines that drew some oohs. Vines left practice shortly afterward with a sprained thumb but is expected to be back this morning.

•The loudest player of the day was Donte' Curry. After exploding through the middle at one point, the linebacker shouted, "Somebody block me!"

•Shaun Rogers and Damien Woody are still big guys, no doubt. But they looked a little less big -- a good sign for a team that needs both at their best.

By Nicholas J. Cotsonika

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions-box130e_20050730.htm

ALinChainz

07-30-2005, 02:21 PM

LIONS' BIGGEST LOSER?: Woody's fitness a weight removed

July 30, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

This is the Lions' off-season conditioning program: running, lifting and sweating four days a week for 14 weeks.

This is the reward for those who make all 56 sessions and make the team: a reserved parking spot at team headquarters.

And this, in the words of coach Steve Mariucci, is a "huge problem."

"Right now we have more guys that get these parking spaces than we have parking spaces," Mariucci said. "It's a good problem to have. I'm proud of our off-season."

More than once -- before the first team meeting Thursday, after the first team meeting Thursday, after the first practice Friday -- Mariucci has mentioned how fit his players are. He said this was the best off-season conditioning program he had been around.

Dre' Bly, Kevin Jones, Shaun Rogers, Roy Williams, Damien Woody ... they're all in great shape.

"That's what you hope for, that's what you dream about, that your best players are the hardest-working guys on your team," Mariucci said. "When your best players are like that, then it rubs off on everybody."

Woody has made more strides than anyone else.

Last year, after leaving the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots as a free agent, Woody reported to Lions camp at 355 pounds -- at least.

True, a knee problem set him back.

"But to me," he said, "there's no excuse for what happened last year. I'm a professional, and as a professional, it's not my job to make excuses. It's my job to get it done. I'm getting paid a lot of money to do my job. Last year I looked at it as I let the whole team down."

Woody's weight hurt him in the wallet because the team kept fining him, and it hurt the Lions on the field because they kept running to the right. Woody, a right guard, didn't have the mobility or stamina to go the other way often enough.

"A lot of it had to do with the excess baggage I had on," Woody said.

In the off-season, Woody didn't just get together with the coaches. He got together with dietitians. He got a personal chef for the first time.

She comes to his house and prepares breakfast, lunch and dinner just about every day.

"Everything is organic, and the portions are where they're supposed to be," Woody said. "Sometimes when people get the idea of organic food, it's not the most appealing in their minds, but she did a great job. The food is great, and it's working and it's going to continue to keep working throughout the season."

Woody drank a lot of water and stayed active, and he has lost 38 pounds. He reported to camp at 335. His goal is to get down to 320 by the regular-season opener Sept. 11 against Green Bay.

"It's all about commitment, man," said Woody, 27, a seventh-year veteran. "I told the guys last year, man, that's not the way I wanted to come in. This year I made a promise to everybody that you're not going to worry about me not being in shape. ...

"That was my mission coming into this season. I'm not going to let myself down, and I'm not going to let my teammates down, because you can't be a leader if you're talking one thing and you're not doing it."

The Lions plan to have Woody go to the left much more often this season.

"Why?" Mariucci said. "Because we feel he can, and he's in good enough shape to do that."

Woody won't get a reserved parking spot for this. He missed a week of the off-season program to spend time with his family.

But that's OK. He pointed to his Lincoln Navigator -- parked on the side near the field Friday morning -- and said, "I made my own space." Asked where he would park if he made it to 320, he joked, "Right smack in the middle of the field."

And there's more than one way to get a reserved parking spot. Players who make the Pro Bowl for the Lions get reserved spots, too -- and theirs are marked by nice nameplates, not just numbers painted on the curb.

Woody made the Pro Bowl in 2002. Despite his weight, he was an alternate last year.

"I feel I should be the best guard in the league," he said. "I truly believe that."

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions30e_20050730.htm

ALinChainz

07-30-2005, 02:25 PM

LIONS NOTEBOOK: Cody rushes to sign, turns eyes to pass rush

July 30, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

A little after 9 a.m. Friday -- about 15 or 20 minutes after the Lions began their first practice of training camp -- Shaun Cody ran onto the field, pulled on his helmet and joined his fellow defensive linemen.

The second-round draft pick had just signed a four-year contract and couldn't wait to play.

"I was moving," Cody said. "I wanted to get out to practice. I miss football."

Although Cody was reported absent Thursday, he really wasn't. He went to the team meetings and slept at the team hotel. He hadn't signed yet, but the sides were close.

He got up early Friday morning, went to Lions headquarters and prepared for practice, unsure of what would happen. He didn't take the field with his teammates right away, and he had some butterflies.

"For a while there," he said, "I was sitting by myself."

But then the deal got done, and Cody signed -- in his jersey and cleats.

"I didn't know how many signatures I had to do," he said. "There was a lot of signing there."

Before Cody knew it, he had gone from the locker room to the front office to the middle of the action.

"I was in there thinking, 'This my first NFL training camp play right here. Here it is,' " he said. "It was finally good to put on the pads and be done with 40s and jumping and bench-pressing. It was finally good to play football."

Cody, a tackle, is looking forward to playing alongside Shaun Rogers. With Rogers drawing double-teams, he should see some single blockers.

"I want to be a contributor this year," Cody said. "I think I can definitely bring some pass rush."

HOLDOUT UPDATE: Mitch Frankel and Tony Fleming, the agents for first-round pick Mike Williams, were back home in southern California after visiting Lions headquarters Thursday.

"We're both negotiating in very good faith," Fleming said late Friday afternoon. "We just haven't been able to come to a deal yet."

Fleming said they had just spoken again with Lions executive vice president Tom Lewand and were preparing to submit another proposal.

"We're just going back and forth," Fleming said. "It's kind of a weird year. The market is kind of unfolding slowly. We're just working on it."

Williams, a wide receiver, remained home in Tampa.

"He's just waiting," Fleming said. "He's ready to go. Mike is very adamant about it. He wanted to be in camp on time. So we're just trying to get it done for him as soon as possible."

There was no movement on kick returner Eddie Drummond, Lions senior vice president Bill Keenist said. Drummond has a one-year offer worth more than $1.4 million on the table, but he wants a multiyear deal.

LIONS AND TIGER: Michigan State men's basketball coach Tom Izzo played golf Wednesday with Tiger Woods in the Buick Open pro-am. Woods told Izzo he can bench-press 300 pounds. Izzo told Lions coach Steve Mariucci.

And Mariucci told the Lions.

"I knew he was a weightlifter, but I didn't realize he was quite that strong," Mariucci said. "His conditioning and his routine is really exceptional, and I'm sure that's one of the reasons why he's so great."

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lionsider30e_20050730.htm

ALinChainz

07-30-2005, 02:46 PM

Saturday, July 30, 2005

Harrington has successful mentor in Garcia

Associated Press

ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- As he prepares for his fourth NFL season, Lions quarterback Joey Harrington is likely to turn to a new cohort for some professional guidance.

When Detroit signed Jeff Garcia in the offseason, it gave Harrington a teammate that has seen success as a professional signal caller. So far, it appears the relationship is developing nicely.

"I look at Jeff Garcia and I see success," Harrington said after Friday's first training camp practice. "He's been where I want to be. He's been to Pro Bowls and the playoffs and that's what I want.

"Whether he's pushing me for a job or pushing me to get better, he's still pushing me to get better."

Harrington improved in almost every statistical category last season and threw more touchdowns (19) than interceptions (12) for the first time in his career, but the team still encountered offensive droughts and finished 6-10 after a 4-2 start.

In three of the team's last six games, Harrington didn't throw a touchdown pass.

Thanks to the emergence of tailback Kevin Jones and a receiving corps that now features Charles Rogers, Roy Williams, Mike Williams, Marcus Pollard and Kevin Johnson, the Lions could have one of the more potent offensive units in the NFC. As it was last season, the pressure is on Harrington to get them the ball.

Given that arsenal, Harrington said he's excited about the pressure to perform but added that a bit of luck wouldn't hurt.

"I've learned that a lot of times it's a matter of a team catching a few breaks," he said. "Once that happens, you begin to think you can't make a mistake and you can't lose. That rush of confidence can help a team and that's something we really could use."

Enter Garcia, who made three trips to the Pro Bowl from 2000 to 2002 while playing in Mariucci's West Coast offense at San Francisco.

In 2000, his breakout season, Garcia threw for a franchise-record 4,278 yards and finished second in the NFL in touchdown passes (31). He took the 49ers to the playoffs the next two seasons.

After losing records as a starter in 2003 at San Francisco and last season in Cleveland, he's coming to Detroit less as a savior than as a mentor to Harrington. Garcia said he's got no problem with that.

"I believe that my job is to push him to be better than he ever has been in the past," Garcia said. "He shouldn't feel threatened by my presence here. He should be excited about that. He should feel this is going to help push him and help motivate him."

That's exactly what head coach Steve Mariucci wants to hear.

"(Garcia) had other options besides the Detroit Lions," he said. "He chose this one for a lot of reasons understanding what the pecking order was. We've explained it to him very honestly and he gets it."

Notes

WR Scottie Vines left the afternoon practice with a sprained thumb but was expected back Saturday morning. ...

Mariucci said the team will sign another receiver if return specialist Eddie Drummond and/or WR Mike Williams, the team's only camp absentees, remained unsigned -- both were at the end of Friday's second practice session. ...

The Lions practiced Friday with eight receivers. ...

LB Boss Bailey, who missed all of last season with a knee injury, was held out of the afternoon practice. Mariucci said he'll participate in only one practice during two-a-day sessions. ...

OT Tom Kaleita and CB Brandon Payne were cut before the start of Friday's first practice. Both were rookie free agents.

http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0507/30/sport-264261.htm

ALinChainz

07-30-2005, 02:52 PM

Saturday, July 30, 2005

Pressure to win intensifies for Harrington

By Jerry Green / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Joey Harrington took the first snap, then Jeff Garcia took the next one.

It is Joey's job to keep or to lose. That job that creates controversy every summer when the pro football teams start training camp. That job for which there sometimes is too much praise and for which there most often is too much blame.

Starting quarterback for the Lions!

There are no excuses anymore, no alibis; no longer can there be any rationalization that he is too new, too young, too inexperienced to send Roman candles shooting over the sidelines. Those Roman candles -- the ancient wish of William Clay Ford, the clubowner in his 42nd season of proprietorship.

It is Joey's fourth season. He is a seasoned veteran. He has been drilled and groomed for this one job - and now for this season.

Joey is not expected to be Peyton Manning.

But he is expected to excel.

Or else!

Or else, Jeff Garcia is standing by, at the sidelines, an established pro quarterback with winning credentials and a winner's reputation.

Training camp is annually the same with the oozing optimism, the faith that this will become the breakthrough season, that there are better rookies and higher-grade additions signed out of free agency.

"Every time we get to training camp, we expect to win the NFC North," said Harrington, the incumbent, after Friday's first practice session.

"That is the goal of this football team. You're better than the Bears, you're better than the Packers, you're better than the Vikings - and you're in the playoffs. Once you get in the playoffs, then you make your run. That's what the coach preaches to us."

But this year, there is a marked difference.

For the first time, Harrington has a bona fide quarterback nudging him. Jeff Garcia is not the helter-skelter Mike McMahon, the departed wannabe.

Garcia has won with the 49ers. He has playoff starts and three Pro Bowl performances in his resume. His coach in San Francisco was Steve Mariucci.

Nothing strange. No coincidence, in that regard.

The Lions entered their training camp for the 2005 season with all the dangerous elements for a true quarterback controversy - the dreaded, divisive two-quarterback system.

Any sluggish Sunday and Mariucci could be tempted to yank Harrington in favor of Garcia, his old reliable vagabond quarterback from the winning years in San Francisco.

Garcia has said all the proper things, that the job belongs to Joey, that he is with the Lions now to help.

"I do trust Jeff very much," Harrington said after the first camp practice. "He's a great guy, I do trust him. He's very well intentioned.

"But at the same time, whether he's pushing me to get a job or he's pushing me to make the team better, he's still pushing me. And it's my job to respond to that, and up to this point I feel like I've done a good job, and I love having that competition out there . . .

"I see Jeff and I see winning football teams. That's what he has done in his career, and that's where I want to be. He's still been where I want to be."

No excuses for Joey now. The truism of the ancient quarterback mystique is that a young quarterback needs four years, or longer, to learn his trade, to develop his craft, to become accomplished. Most need those years of seasoning, anyway. A superbly skilled Peyton Manning can be an exception, a young Tom Brady can win when surrounded by excellent teammates and an exceptional coach.

But most quarterbacks do not thrive in the NFL until they have reached their fourth season. And even then they can never quite quiet the madding crowds who dwell in the grandstands and proclaim their vast knowledge by booing a Bobby Layne and yelling: "We want Rote." Or, "We want McMahon."

Or, "We want Garcia."

Quarterback is the pressure position. Harrington has played in that quarterback pressure for three losing seasons. Seasons in which he was not blessed with a three-pronged receiver corps, seasons in which he was left vulnerable by flaws in blocking protection. The protection, supposedly, should be better in 2005. Harrington never before has had the potentially devastating receiving group of Roy Williams, the repaired - again - Charles Rogers, and the super rookie, Mike Williams.

I said: potentially.

And he never before has had the shadow of an experienced, winning, longtime No. 1 quarterback as his understudy.

Harrington says the pressure should not be any different for him. But this 2005 camp has just started, and he does not know yet how intense that pressure can become.

"That's why I play quarterback, because I love that pressure and because I love people looking at me in the huddle and I love people looking at me and expecting me to do things on the field," Harrington said Friday.

"That's part of my nature. That's why I enjoy this game. There's no more pressure in my mind this year than last year. The preparation hasn't changed. I'm expected to win football games . . .

"I'm tired of losing games on the last drive, I'm tired of being close. We've made baby steps. It's time to win football games. I'm tired of losing."

Certainly he is expected to win football games. Certainly he is tired of losing. The whole town is tired of the Lions' losing.

The job is Joey's to keep or to lose. No excuses now.

Where have you gone Scott Mitchell?

http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0507/30/sport-264273.htm

ALinChainz

07-30-2005, 09:26 PM

Training Camp Postcard: Lions

Peter King, SI.com

Where's Peter?

At the Detroit Lions' training facility in Allen Park, Mich., halfway between the Detroit airport and downtown Detroit, in an industrial park maybe two miles off I-94. The Lions aren't set up to have fans at their camp, which is a big minus as far as I'm concerned. How do you get fans fired up about your team if you don't let them into your practices during camp? The team will have a public practice at Ford Field next Saturday. But it's eerie to be fan-less for the one practice on this day at 8:45 a.m.

Five Things I Think

1. I think Joey Harrington (and keep in my mind I saw him for two hours, not two weeks) looked very good and much more accurate than his reputation this morning. I'd like to see him against a live rush, because what has plagued him in the yearning-for-accuracy Lions' offense is not being accurate enough. Everyone here praises Harrington's work ethic and dedication and teamness, but we won't know if he really gets it in year four until we see how he fares under a heavy rush. Can he be a 63 percent passer? That's the question everyone has, including coach Steve Mariucci.

2. I think Eddie Drummond, the talented kick returner, is making a rather serious error in judgment. He's unsigned. The Lions have a one-year, $1.4-million offer on the table to him. Should a guy who's exclusively a returner and gunner on special teams expect to make more than 2 percent of a team's salary cap? I think not.

3. I think the third quarterback, fifth-round pick Dan Orlovsky from UConn, needs to be more impressive than the occasional flutter-baller I saw this morning. But barring something odd, he'll break camp as the Lions' inactive quarterback every week, behind Jeff Garcia.

4. I think the Lions, for the first time since Matt Millen took over as GM, have a very healthy linebacker corps. Earl Holmes played better in the middle than anyone expected last year, and, as a rookie, Teddy Lehman played more snaps than any Lion defender. With the speedy Boss Bailey back from a right knee injury and 2003 third-round pick James Davis, pressing for playing time in the Lions' 4-3 defense, depth at linebacker is no longer a concern.

5. I think the 680 pounds of knifing defensive tackle -- Shaun Rogers and Dan Wilkinson -- gives the Lions the best 1-2 punch at DT in the NFL. Both are healthy, and in a division with three opposing coaches who love to run, it gives the Lions a great edge on first down.

Factoid

Size matters. Of the 23 players numbered between 60 and 79 on the Lions roster -- some numbers are given out twice, one to a defensive player and one to an offensive guy -- 18 of them weigh more than 300 pounds.

Fantasy Geek Note

Do not forget Kevin Johnson, drafters. He has an interesting role for a team that has drafted wideouts in the top 10 of the last three drafts. Not saying he should be a high pick, or picked anywhere north of the last round. But here's how the Lions will start things on Sept. 11 against Green Bay, barring weird happenings in camp. Roy Williams -- who looks terrific, by the way, athletic and with great hands -- and Charles Rogers likely will start at the two receiver spots, with Johnson the third and Mike Williams the fourth. That's how it looks now.

But if you watched practice this morning, you saw how comfortable Harrington and Garcia looked throwing to him. Johnson may have been a disappointment in Cleveland, but he's a trusted guy here. Number? Maybe 45 catches with six touchdowns. And the way Rogers and Roy Williams have gotten hurt, Johnson would be a good guy to have in the stable in case the Lions have to make him a full-timer in November.

Camp Confidential

Three NFC North teams (Chicago, Green Bay, Detroit) down, one (Minnesota) to go.

It's funny. I was lukewarm on the Packers, the three-time defending division winner, and more impressed with both the Lions and Bears.

But as I think about a little more, I think: One teams got Brett Favre. The other teams have Joey Harrington and Rex Grossman.

And that makes it all the harder to decipher this division. The Bears and Lions are certainly improved, and the Packers, to me, are a little bit worse. Maybe a lot worse. But the quarterback means so much. Do we really know all that much about Grossman, who has started six NFL games? And do we know too much about Harrington, who has started 32 in a row, to think he can turn it around and play great?

We know Favre. We see he's in better shape than last year, when he still had one of his best years though battered mentally and physically. And the problem with making any judgment about a quarterback during training camp is that very often the guy is playing against air. He's not getting hit, and he knows he can get away with more than he will when the real games begin. So I'm not going to sit here and say Harrington's finally going to play like the third pick in the draft should. Because I have my doubts. And frankly, I just don't know.

"You're better, obviously," I tell Mariucci at lunch. "But you're not exactly in a division with the Devil Rays anymore."

"I know it," he says. "Top to bottom the division's gotten really strong. Minnesota so improved, and Chicago's healthy, and Green Bay wins it every year and still has Brett. It's going to be up for grabs more this year than in a while. I think it'll be up for grabs still in December. Probably January.

Last Sunday of the regular season: Jan. 1.

ALinChainz

07-31-2005, 11:20 AM

http://www.kffl.com

Lions | Bly Returning Punts
Sun, 31 Jul 2005 01:41:18 -0700

Mike O'Hara, of the Detroit News, reports with Detroit Lions WR Eddie Drummond not at training camp, CB Dre' Bly has been returning punts.

Lions | McQuarters Returning Punts
Sun, 31 Jul 2005 01:37:47 -0700

Mike O'Hara, of the Detroit News, reports with Detroit Lions WR Eddie Drummond not at training camp, CB R.W. McQuarters has been returning punts.

Lions | Law Becoming a Remote Possibility
Sun, 31 Jul 2005 01:35:35 -0700

Mike O'Hara, of the Detroit News, reports as time passes, the chances of the Detroit Lions signing free agent CB Ty Law (Patriots) get more and more remote. The Lions would have to restructure other contracts to create enough room under their salary cap to accommodate Law's demands.

Lions | Tell Drummond to Sign Tender or Stay Home
Sun, 31 Jul 2005 01:31:42 -0700

Mike O'Hara, of the Detroit News, reports the Detroit Lions have drawn a line in the sand in their negotiations with WR Eddie Drummond. There had been talks with Drummond about a long-term contract, but that no longer is an option, said Tom Lewand, chief operating officer of the Lions. "He can come in and sign the one-year tender or he can sit on his couch," Lewand said.

ALinChainz

07-31-2005, 01:20 PM

Sunday, July 31, 2005

Jones in running for banner season

Second-year Lion is more comfortable and looks to eclipse his solid debut as rookie.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Kevin Jones knew his place his rookie season, even before he started accumulating yards in triple digits.

The Lions were at Texas Stadium for their seventh game of last season, and Jones had just caught a touchdown pass. It was a simple play -- a 1-yard toss from Joey Harrington off a play-action fake.

Jones, a running back his entire career, had never caught a touchdown pass before that game. He spiked the ball on a star in the Cowboys' end zone.

It was more a reflection of the loyalties Jones developed while growing up in a suburb of Philadelphia than an act of showmanship.

"Growing up, I was an Eagles fan and hated Dallas," Jones said between practices at Lions training camp. "I always said, if I didn't play for Dallas, that's what I would do.

"I remembered it when I got to the city. I remembered how much I didn't like Dallas growing up."

Jones' spike went largely unnoticed. In terms of end-zone theatrics, it didn't rank high.

In 2000, 49ers receiver Terrell Owens angered the Cowboys by twice spiking a ball at midfield on the Cowboys' star. Jones never thought of making such a statement.

"Nah, I was a rookie," he said. "I wasn't going to take things that far."

Jones should get more chances to celebrate this season, maybe even in Dallas. The Lions return to Texas Stadium on Nov. 20.

Fantastic finish

Don't expect much that Jones does this season to go unnoticed. His performance in the second half of the 2004 season has made him a known commodity -- by defenses, fans, teammates and coaches.

Jones rushed for 1,133 yards in 2004, was fifth in the NFC and led all rookies. His performance was more impressive than his statistics would indicate.

The first half of the season, he played like a rookie who was feeling his way. He also was slowed by an ankle injury suffered in the second game of the season.

Jones missed most of the exhibition season because of a hamstring injury, but he started the regular-season opener against Chicago.

"I was a little bit nervous last year," he said. "I was excited. I still had my confidence, but it was something new. I got my feet wet. Now I'm ready to go out here and just win. I feel comfortable now. Everything is almost easy."

Jones regained his health the second half of the season and was the NFL's most prolific rusher, gaining 906 yards. He had four 100-yard rushing games, with a high of 196 in a victory over Arizona.

He ran with the speed he showed at Virginia Tech and displayed more power than the Lions had expected. At 225 pounds, he had the strength to break tackles.

"That was the one surprise to me, his ability to run with strength and power," running-backs coach Tom Rathman said. "He wanted to bounce outside and create that way. Towards the end of the season, he was running through tackles, arm tackles. He developed into that."

Established runner

Before Jones' arrival as a first-round draft pick, the Lions' running game was the dregs of the NFL. Between 1999 and 2003, the team ranked 28th or lower in rushing yards four times and was last in 2003. The turnaround to No. 19 last year doesn't seem like much, but Jones' fast finish gives the Lions a legitimate running game.

"He was one of the better running backs in the league late in the season," Rathman said. "It's huge for your team. You've got a guy who already has established himself in the league as being a prolific guy. Players understand that, and I think they respect that. Knowing that we've got that type of talent in the backfield, that says a lot for your team.

"Really. You define a tough-nosed, hard-nosed team by its running game. That's what we like to establish."

Jones regards his rookie season as a beginning, not a finished product.

"I don't even look at last year as a big thing for me," he said. "This year, I want to do bigger and greater things. I want to win more games. I expect more out of myself."

So do the offensive linemen, who enjoy having a back who can gain yards on his own.

As much as they know they have to keep pass rushers off the quarterback, linemen like blocking for the run.

"It's football," tackle Jeff Backus said. "People talk about it every year. It takes pressure off the quarterback. It gives you options in the offense. I don't know any different -- I come from Michigan."

http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0507/31/C01-265082.htm

ALinChainz

07-31-2005, 01:29 PM

Lions: Notebook

Rogers makes no bones about return

Receiver participates in full-contract drills, isn't concerned with reinjuring shoulder.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Charles Rogers got up and ran for the end zone when he heard the shouts of "Get up! Get up!" after he made a sliding, rolling catch Saturday morning.

It was a natural reaction by Rogers. He didn't think about his right collarbone, which he broke during his first two seasons with the Lions.

The Lions had their first training-camp practice in full pads Saturday, and Rogers showed no tendency to shy away from contact. On one play, he lined up to his right and slid to catch a pass from Joey Harrington. The ball was thrown low to beat the coverage, and Rogers did not hesitate to go for it.

He was scrambling to his feet even before he heard teammates and coaches yell, "Get up!"

"I hadn't been touched," Rogers said. "I wasn't down yet. I have to get those six points."

When he got back to the huddle, Rogers tapped hands with Harrington. It was a little sign among players -- a welcome back.

Rogers suffered a broken right collarbone on the third play of the Lions' opening-game victory last season in Chicago. He lined up right and dived for a pass over the middle. His collarbone snapped as he landed on the turf.

In 2003, Rogers' rookie season ended during practice after the fifth game.

He insists he won't worry about the possibility of another injury. He was cleared for full contact when camp opened and is wearing regular shoulder pads, without extra protection.

"I'm not going to come out here and be too padded up where I can't use my ability and be able to stretch out and make the big plays. I come out here fearless," he said.

Contract talks

The Lions are taking a hard line in negotiations with return specialist Eddie Drummond. They will not discuss anything except the one-year, $1.4 million tender that he has refused to sign.

Drummond and rookie wide receiver Mike Williams, the Lions' first-round draft pick, are without contracts.

There had been talks with Drummond about a long-term contract, but that no longer is an option, said Tom Lewand, chief operating officer of the Lions.

"He can come in and sign the one-year tender or he can sit on his couch," Lewand said.

• Three signings of first-round picks since the Lions opened camp should have some impact on Williams, drafted 10th overall. The deals were for running back Carnell Williams (drafted fifth by Tampa Bay), offensive tackle Jamaal Brown (13th by New Orleans) and safety Thomas Davis (14th by Carolina).

"We're trying to work as expeditiously as possible to get Mike done," Lewand said. "We've had a lot of discussion."

• As time passes, the possibility of the Lions' signing free-agent cornerback Ty Law (Michigan) looks remote. They would have to restructure other contracts to create enough room under their salary-cap to accommodate Law's demands.

The best guess is that Law will end up with the Jets.

Extra points

Wide receiver Scottie Vines was back at practice Saturday after leaving Friday's workout early because of a strained right thumb.

... With Drummond out of camp, R.W. McQuarters and Dré Bly are the primary return men in training-camp drills.

... To add depth at receiver, the Lions signed Grant Mattos. He was on Denver's practice squad last season.

http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0507/31/C12-264902.htm

ALinChainz

08-01-2005, 01:19 PM

It's NFC North title or bust for the Lions

August 1, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

There's hope, there's optimism and then there's something else.

Confidence.

As quarterback Joey Harrington, coach Steve Mariucci and vice chairman Bill Ford Jr. spoke Sunday at Lions training camp, they showed a lot of it.

"There's no reason in my mind why we shouldn't win the division," Harrington said. "I don't think anybody should be scared to say that.

"I'm tired of losing football games. There's no beating around the bush on that one. I hate losing, and I'm not going to take it anymore."

Mariucci had been vague about what he thought the Lions could or should accomplish this season. But when asked about Harrington's comments, he left no doubt the NFC North title was in his sights.

"In the recent past here, I don't know if people felt that they were confident enough to make that a realistic expectation," Mariucci said. "I think we are getting to a point where we make that as our goal and every intention.

"Everything we talk about is about beating the Packers, the Bears and the Vikings. Obviously there are other teams in the league, but if you can dominate and be on top of your division you are always in the playoff hunt. It's time for us to win that thing."

Ford liked what he saw as he surveyed the field during the morning practice.

"There's more talent on the team now," Ford said. "It's night and day versus what it was three years ago. I expect us to have a good year."

Asked what he considered good, Ford said: "Playoffs, and then from there anything can happen."

Yes, Ford allows himself to daydream about the Lions' playing in the Super Bowl at Ford Field.

"Of course I do," Ford said. "Absolutely. Ford Field in many ways to me was my dream. People told me not to do it. I got lots of advice that it would never work and that a stadium in the city was not going to ever be practical. And yet we went ahead and did it.

"To have the Super Bowl there, I'm going to love every minute of it, and of course, the one thing that would put it over the top would be to have the team in it."

The Lions won only 16 games the past four seasons. Only Houston won as few in that span -- and the expansion Texans have played only three seasons.

But the Lions' roster has changed dramatically.

Ford said you couldn't help but think about the 1991 team -- the only Lions to win a playoff game since the '57 team won the NFL championship.

"I like the fact that we have depth at virtually every position," Ford said. "I like the fact that our best players typically are ascending players, they're not descending players. And I like the fact that even our backups are guys coming into their prime, as opposed to prior years when we had guys who were on their last year. And I think that all of that really should make us a much better team."

Every team is positive at training camp every year, but ...

"This is different," Ford said. "There's some battles for positions. Ultimately you're going to see good football players on the street. That's a luxury we have not had in at least the last three years."

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions1e_20050801.htm

ALinChainz

08-01-2005, 01:21 PM

LIONS NOTEBOOK: Ford Jr. endorses Millen for extension as president

August 1, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

It appears Matt Millen isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

"I certainly expect Matt to be here," Lions vice chairman Bill Ford Jr. said Sunday.

Millen is in the fifth year of a five-year contract as team president, and the Lions have won only 16 games on his watch. The only team that won as few games from 2001 to '04 is Houston, and the expansion Texans began play in '02.

But the trend is upward -- 2-14, 3-13, 5-11, 6-10 -- and the roster has been revamped. The Lions expect much more this season.

It sounds like Millen will reach an agreement on an extension with owner and chairman William Clay Ford.

"Matt has always worked here with kind of a handshake with my dad, and that's the way it'll get done this time," Ford Jr. said.

Asked if it would be a year-by-year thing with Millen, Ford Jr. said: "I think a lot of it will depend on what Matt wants to do.

"Look, I think he's done a very good job. Obviously -- he was the first to admit -- he had a very steep learning curve early. But if you believe like I do that this is a roster filled with talent, I mean, Matt's the guy that did it.

"I know there are Matt Millen detractors out there, and obviously the record, nobody's happy with it. But I think from this point forward I like our chances and I like our team, and I attribute that to Matt."

Millen declined to comment much on the matter.

"That's not the focus," he said, gesturing toward the team on the field. "The focus is to get that thing done. You know that. ...

"I'm not worried about it. That will take care of itself."

WILLIAMS CLOSE: Millen said the Lions "hit it pretty hard" Sunday afternoon with the agents for first-round pick Mike Williams. "Things are moving around pretty good," Millen said. "We'll see where they go."

One of Williams' agents, Tony Fleming, said the sides were close to a deal.

"We're progressing pretty rapidly," Fleming said. "We hope to have him there really, really soon."

Fleming said Williams was in Tampa but was waiting for the call to fly to Detroit.

NOTEBOOK: Right guard Damien Woody suffered a strained shoulder Sunday morning when his arm got caught back during one-on-one pass protection. He didn't practice in the afternoon. "We put him in ice, but we don't think it's serious," coach Steve Mariucci said. "We think he'll need a little treatment and rest and he'll be back in." ...

Fullback Will Matthews, a rookie free agent from Texas, made the hit of the day. "He had a collision on a linebacker that was heard around the building," Mariucci said. "He got some hoots and hollers from the team. That's how fullbacks earn their stripes. ... He is showing us that he has a chance to make the team." ...

Former Lion Lomas Brown is in camp as a scouting intern. He's evaluating the offensive and defensive linemen. "I'm so shocked at how much goes into scouting," he said. "I never knew this." Brown said he wanted to see how a team worked from top to bottom. His ultimate goal is to own a football team at some level.

http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lionsnotes1e_20050801.htm

ALinChainz

08-01-2005, 01:35 PM

Lions sign first-round pick WR Mike Williams

August 1, 2005

ALLEN PARK, Michigan (Ticker) - Joey Harrington will get a chance to throw to another talented receiver in training camp.

The Detroit Lions signed Mike Williams, the 10th overall pick in the 2005 draft, to a five-year contract on Monday.

Financial terms were not disclosed, but the Detroit Free Press is reporting that the deal is worth more than $13 million with $10 million of it guaranteed.

ADVERTISEMENT

The Lions have drafted a receiver in the first round each of the last three years - Charles Rogers in 2003, Roy Williams in 2004 and Mike Williams - in an attempt to provide Harrington, a first-round pick in 2002, with playmakers.

The 6-5, 229-pound Mike Williams caught 176 passes for 2,579 yards and 30 touchdowns in just two years at Southern California. He declared for the NFL draft after the 2003 season, but a court ruling prohibited from entering the draft and then he was denied reinstatement at USC.

Williams did not play last season, but that did not prevent him from becoming the third receiver selected in the draft behind Michigan's Braylon Edwards and South Carolina's Troy Williamson.

Williams caught 95 passes for 1,314 yards and 16 touchdowns as a sophomore after catching 81 passes for 1,265 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman.

The biggest knock against Williams is his speed. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.59 seconds at the scouting combine, but his size makes him a perfect fit in Lions coach Steve Mariucci's West Coast offense.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=lionsmwilliams&prov=st&type=lgns

ALinChainz

08-04-2005, 11:14 AM

LIONS NOTEBOOK: Back in pads, rookie Williams ends 'vacation'

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

August 4, 2005

After his first real football practice in 19 months, Mike Williams felt comfortable enough to crack a joke.

"If you're an accountant or you're a lawyer and you leave it alone for a year," the Lions wide receiver said, "it doesn't mean you don't know numbers and you don't know how to lie to people."

He laughed.

"My mom's going to kill me," he added, "because she's a lawyer."

Williams' last game was Jan. 1, 2004, when he played for Southern California against Michigan in the Rose Bowl. After an unsuccessful attempt to enter the NFL draft as a sophomore, he was ineligible to return to the Trojans and sat out the 2004 season.

He worked out on his own. He worked out periodically with NFL receiving great Cris Carter. But he said he didn't even own a helmet.

The minicamps he attended after the Lions drafted him 10th overall? They don't count. He wore a helmet, but no pads.

The first time Williams put on pads since the Rose Bowl was Tuesday, when receivers coach Fred Graves put him through an hour-and-a-half catch-up session. Williams had missed the first four days of camp while his contract was being completed. The rest of the team had only meetings Tuesday.

"We had to give him a feel for it," Graves said. "We ran through some individual routes, did some agility drills, then we ran through a script of plays. He did a good job."

The first time Williams put on pads and played against other people since the Rose Bowl was Wednesday morning.

He dropped a pass and heard about it.

"I had to listen to Dre' Bly and those guys, like, 'It's not vacation anymore!' " Williams said. "It's an adjustment, man."

But after a while, he felt all right.

"It's kind of weird at first when you put them on and you're hitting people and people are hitting you," Williams said. "But then it's kind of like riding a bike, so you don't really worry about it that much."

FORD TALKS: Owner William Clay Ford addressed the Lions at morning practice. Receiver Roy Williams said Ford told them they were the best team he'd had and to "get it done."

Afterward, Ford, 80, shook hands with quarterback Joey Harrington, gave him a couple of paternal pats and spoke to him for a bit.

"For an older guy, he's got some fire to him, you can tell," Harrington said. "He really wants to win. It was just a little pep talk."

WISE, THEY ARE: On the second day of camp, rookie quarterback Dan Orlovsky walked into the meeting room. He had a number of seats from which to choose, and where did he plop down? In the empty seat between starter Harrington and backup Jeff Garcia.

Harrington recounted the conversation that ensued:

"What are you doing?" they said.

"You guys are my Yoda," Orlovsky said.

Harrington and Garcia promptly elbowed him.

"He's in a perfect position where he can relax and take things in," Harrington said. "He has a chance to learn in a non-pressure situation."

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=knight-_WWW_lionsnotes4e_2005080&prov=knight&type=lgns

ALinChainz

08-04-2005, 03:57 PM

SITTING PRETTY: Despite 16-48 mark, Millen gets 5 more years

August 4, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Since Matt Millen became team president, the Lions have compiled the worst record in the NFL -- 16-48. Only Houston has won as few games since 2001, and the expansion Texans didn't start playing until 2002.

But owner William Clay Ford wasn't looking at it that way when he locked up Millen through 2010.

"I'm looking at it as now going forward," Ford said Wednesday morning as he sat next to Millen in a grounds-crew cart at training camp. "The past is over with. There's no point looking back on it."

Millen is in the fifth year of his original five-year contract. Ford could have waited to see what would happen this season before signing Millen to a five-year extension. But Ford said the deal was done "a month or so" ago.

"I think we've built a good team, all due to Matt's direction," Ford said.

No one denies Millen's won-loss record is dismal. Millen, who had no front-office experience before he was hired, has said he didn't know what he didn't know at first. But the Lions have been improving -- 2-14, 3-13, 5-11, 6-10 -- and much more is expected in the future.

The Lions have more talent and depth than they've had in years, and quarterback Joey Harrington has said there is no reason why they shouldn't make the playoffs for the first time since 1999.

"We want to see it come together and do what we started to do in the first place," Millen said. "You don't want to stop right in the middle of it."

Millen took over a 9-7 team that missed the playoffs by a field goal. Whatever his intention, he burned it down to build it back up again. He made mistakes; he made shrewd moves.

The organization has changed dramatically. Millen hired coach Marty Mornhinweg, only to fire him and replace him with Steve Mariucci in 2003. Only three players remain from the roster Millen inherited: defensive end Jared DeVries, kicker Jason Hanson and fullback Cory Schlesinger.

Current players acquired in the draft include Harrington, Boss Bailey, Kevin Jones, Charles Rogers, Shaun Rogers, Mike Williams and Roy Williams. To be sure, the Lions' poor records have given them good draft position. But Millen has been crafty. In 2004, he made a couple of trades to nab both Roy Williams and Jones in the first round.

Current players brought in via free agency include Dre' Bly, Fernando Bryant, Rick DeMulling, Jeff Garcia, Kenoy Kennedy, R.W. McQuarters, Marcus Pollard, Dan Wilkinson and Damien Woody.

Ford has a history of sticking with his football hires, from former general manager Russ Thomas to former coach Wayne Fontes, and Millen fits right in.

"We want continuity in here," Ford said. "I think Matt has built a great foundation for us to move forward, and I can't think of anybody better to see it through than Matt."

Millen said when he was hired that he never thought about staying more than five years.

"But you know what?" Millen said. "We're here. We've got a lot of stuff invested in it -- a lot of time, a lot of effort, a lot of people, a lot of lives -- and we're going to see it through."

Millen said he felt "a lot more comfortable" in the role of team president, "no question about it." But he didn't say he was satisfied.

"You feel satisfied after you get a Super Bowl ring on your finger," said Millen, who won three rings as a linebacker, one each with the Raiders, 49ers and Redskins. "That lasts till after the ring ceremony, and then you start feeling uncomfortable again. And that's something we've got to do."

The Freep (http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions4e_20050804.htm)

ALinChainz

08-05-2005, 02:18 PM

Orlovsky won't be thrown to Lions

Unlike past rookie quarterbacks in Detroit, he will have a chance to learn pro game slowly.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Joey Harrington and Jeff Garcia were in the front row before the start of an evening meeting early in training camp when rookie quarterback Dan Orlovsky approached and found an open seat between them.

The two experienced quarterbacks pretended to squeeze Orlovsky out of his seat.

"We kind of looked at him," Harrington said. "We've got this big auditorium, 60 empty seats. We looked at him and said, 'What are you doing?'

"And he said, 'You guys are my Yoda.'"

In the Star Wars films, Yoda has otherworldly abilities -- lifting enormous weights, sensing the future and inspiring thousands of comrades.

In Lions camp, Harrington and Garcia -- masters of the West Coast offense -- will help lead the way for Orlovsky to learn to play quarterback in the NFL.

It will be a slow process for Orlovsky. He won't have the trial by fire and rush to perform, which Harrington experienced in his rookie season. When Harrington was drafted in the first round in 2002, there was no doubt that he would start as a rookie.

The only question was when, and Harrington replaced Mike McMahon in the third game.

There is no pretense of bringing Orlovsky along to compete for a starting job. The pecking order is set. Harrington is the starter. Garcia is the backup, with a chance to move up because of injury or inefficiency. Orlovsky is the understudy.

"He's in a perfect position where he can relax and take things in," Harrington said. "He has a chance to learn some things in a non-pressure situation."

It is a different situation for Orlovsky, who was drafted in the fifth round after a fine career at Connecticut. And it's new for most rookie quarterbacks in Detroit. There has been a rush to anoint new quarterbacks as franchise saviors.

Chuck Long (1986), Andre Ware (1991) and Harrington were first-round picks who were projected as quarterbacks of the future.

Rodney Peete arrived in 1989 as a sixth-round pick, but as the Heisman Trophy runner-up to fellow rookie Barry Sanders, he was accompanied by high hopes. He became the starter in his rookie season.

Charlie Batch, a second-round pick out of Eastern Michigan in 1998, replaced Scott Mitchell as the starter in the third game of his rookie season. Even McMahon, a fifth-round pick in 2001, created a buzz because his mobility made him a starting contender in the West Coast offense.

Orlovsky's focus or desire in practice isn't diminished because he is locked in as a third-stringer.

"I've just approached it to have my mind in a manner that I am the starter -- I'm competing for the starting job -- just so I don't lose that mentality," he said. "For the past eight years, I've been the starter. It's a different role to be in.

"I've tried to sit back and learn. I'm not getting a lot of physical reps. So what I try to do, after practice when we have some time off, I come out and get my physical reps in. My biggest thing is to try to keep my sharpness up."

Orlovsky, who is 6-foot-5 and 230 pounds, has a live arm and good mobility. In four years at Connecticut, he threw 84 touchdown passes against one interception. He was the MVP in Connecticut's victory over Toledo in the 2004 Motor City Bowl at Ford Field.

Orlovsky is leaning on Garcia and Harrington and the different paths they took to the NFL.

After an outstanding career at San Jose State, Garcia played five seasons for Calgary of the Canadian League before signing with San Francisco in 1999. He became the 49ers' full-time starter in 1999 and made the Pro Bowl three straight years from 2000-02.

Garcia has overcome physical limitations to have a productive career. He has made no secret that he is not satisfied with being a backup, even though he has accepted the role in Detroit.

"It's amazing how smart and intelligent he is and what a professional he is," Orlovsky said. "I'm really fortunate to learn from a guy like that."

Harrington was drafted to play quickly, and he has taken his share of criticism from fans and media.

Orlovsky and Harrington have the same agent, David Dunn, and they spent time together in California this year.

"Joey's in a situation where he was a young quarterback, and he's come in and had some struggles -- like 99 percent of players and 100 percent of quarterbacks do when they come in," Orlovsky said. "It's something I can learn from."

"The thing I admire from Joey, he just continues to go and go and go, no matter what people say. That's a tribute to his character."

The Detroit News (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0508/05/D01-270681.htm)

ALinChainz

08-05-2005, 02:24 PM

Mistake on his career numbers at UCONN.

I know he had to throw more than 1 interception with his 84 TD passes.

ALinChainz

08-05-2005, 02:29 PM

Lions: Notebook

Drummond's next return is to camp

Specialist ends holdout and signs a one-year tender instead of the longer deal he wanted.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- Lions return specialist Eddie Drummond has ended his boycott and reported to training camp.

Drummond, who had been absent since camp opened a week ago because of a contract dispute, reported after Thursday's afternoon practice and signed his one-year tender.

"I expect him to be on the practice field Friday morning," coach Steve Mariucci said.

Drummond left the team's headquarters facility and was not available for comment.

He had his best season as a Lion in 2004 with four returns for touchdowns -- two punts and two kickoffs. But he suffered a broken right shoulder blade in a loss to the Colts on Thanksgiving Day and missed the rest of the season.

Drummond became a restricted free agent in March, and the Lions gave him a one-year tender worth $1.4 million.

He was seeking a long-term contract and never signed the tender, which meant he was without a contract and, under NFL rules, not required to report to camp.

In talks with Drew Rosenhaus, Drummond's agent, Lions management held firm that it would not negotiate a long-term contract before Drummond reported.

The Lions have all of their players under contract and in camp.

Blitz drills

The Lions worked extensively on the blitz in Thursday's morning practice. At this stage of camp, there is a two-sided benefit because the practices are not scripted to benefit either side.

The defense works to stop the offense, and vice versa. In the regular season, when the focus is solely on the upcoming opponent, the units service each other by simulating the opponent's offense and defense.

The offense ran 10 blitzes from the base formation and 10 from the nickel.

"What happens is, some plays the offense will win, some the defense will win," Mariucci said. "It's not choreographed. We're bringing it. You understand when you're through what the stress spots are on your offense -- what you can pick up, what you can't, what you need to throw hot.

"This has become a blitz-happy league, so you've got to work against it a lot. Everybody does it."

Faster tempo

It isn't a coincidence that the practice tempo is faster and more competitive than in previous camps. There is more depth and talent at the skill positions on offense and defense, and the level of competition is noticeably higher in the passing game.

"We're healthier," Mariucci said. "We don't have three guys with red jerseys on, limping around. We're contending for the ball, both sides of the ball. We have more depth, on both sides of the ball. It's good, healthy competition."

Injury update

Two players -- defensive end James Hall (groin) and running back Jamel White (hamstring) -- were kept out of drills Saturday because of injuries. The injuries are minor, Mariucci said.

Public practice

Saturday afternoon's workout at Ford Field will be mostly a show for the fans, but there will be some value for the players, too.

Rookies and new free agents will get their first look at the stadium, and Mariucci will put the team through drills. There will not be a full-fledged scrimmage.

Players and coaches will be available for autographs at positions throughout the stadium. Gates open at 1 p.m. and practice begins at 2.

The Detroit News (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0508/05/D06-270461.htm)

ALinChainz

08-06-2005, 10:06 PM

LINEBACKERS: With Bailey back, group versatile, deep

BY CHRIS SILVA, FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

August 6, 2005

This season the Lions' linebackers are healthy, more seasoned and, most important, interchangeable.

Veterans Earl Holmes and James Davis return to anchor the corps. Boss Bailey has recovered from a knee injury that cost him the 2004 season, and the durable Teddy Lehman and versatile Alex Lewis both have a season under them.

They might be the deepest unit on the team, but either way they're expected to help resurrect a defense that ranked 22nd in the NFL last season.

And coach Steve Mariucci speaks with a sense of pride when mentioning how the linebackers are cross-trained, capable of playing all three positions, a priceless luxury.

But there's just one problem.

The Lions potentially have five linebackers who could start, but only three starting jobs.

For the coaches, that's a dilemma they like to have.

"We've got to sort through that in training camp," Mariucci said. "We've got some decisions to make as to how to play those linebackers and we have some decisions to make as to who is going to make the team. There's some depth there where it's not cut-and-dry. There's some versatility with those guys."

Holmes, the probable starter in the middle, said, "You've got to make it hard for the coaches to make that decision, the three they're going to go with, and even with the fourth. If anybody goes down or somebody gets nicked and bumped, we'll never miss a beat, never miss a step. We've got another guy as if we've got a starter, so that's a good problem. That's a great problem to have."

Last year the Lions had problems of a different kind. Bailey, a second-round draft pick in 2003, missed the season after his right knee was injured in training camp. That forced the Lions to bump Davis up the depth chart and also start the rookie Lehman, who played the most snaps of anyone on the team. And it forced the defensive line to shoulder most of the pass-rushing responsibilities.

The Lions' linebackers recorded 6 1/2 sacks, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries last season on a defense that ranked 15th against the run and 20th against the pass. The Lions ranked 19th in turnover differential.

That needs to change. The Lions are confident it will.

Bailey probably will start at strong-side linebacker, with Lehman sharing time there. Holmes returns in the middle after leading the Lions in tackles in each of his two seasons with them. The weak-side job remains open, though the experienced Davis appears to have an edge on Lewis, who does well in covering receivers deep.

But the players insist that's all secondary. That's where the versatility comes in. Lehman played the strong side last season in place of Bailey and has practiced extensively in the middle. Bailey can also play the weak side, and Davis and Lewis can play the strong side.

"The thing is, a lot of people don't understand is there's so many ways you can rotate and mix that thing up," Bailey said. "For us, as linebackers, it really doesn't matter who starts because everyone's going to play."

And that's exactly what linebackers coach Johnny Holland wants to do -- find playing time for everyone. Holland said the linebackers are looking stronger when attacking the line of scrimmage and sharper in downfield coverage, assets that should help when it comes to NFC North play against quarterbacks like Green Bay's Brett Favre and Minnesota's Daunte Culpepper.

"When you're playing veteran quarterbacks, you have to be smart," Holland said. "Guys like Culpepper can scramble and move around, so you have to know exactly where you fit in your coverage and rushing responsibility. We want to improve the knowledge of our game and have an overall understanding of our defense."

The Freep (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=knight-_WWW_lions6e_20050806&prov=knight&type=lgns)

ALinChainz

08-08-2005, 04:12 PM

Secondary talent pool runs deep for Lions

Playing time could be difficult to get

August 8, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

R.W. McQuarters couldn't help but laugh. He had been asked where he fit on the Lions' depth chart.

"I expect to be at the top," McQuarters said, smiling. "Right now, I'm at the bottom. I'm probably under the depth chart. They had to fill my name in on the depth chart. But it's all good."

It's crowded in the secondary as the Lions prepare for Friday night's exhibition opener against the New York Jets. Cornerback might be the deepest position on the team, according to coach Steve Mariucci, and safety isn't exactly shallow.

Imagine if the Lions somehow sign free agent Ty Law, who worked out at team headquarters in Allen Park a couple of weeks ago. Team president Matt Millen has said he would love to have Law. But no offer has been made, and Law is reportedly leaning toward the Jets.

Wide receiver Kevin Johnson called the secondary "outstanding."

"I think it is going to be a challenge for offenses to put wide receivers out there, knowing that we have two good cover corners, as well as good hitters in the back," Johnson said. "They can take wide receivers out of the game."

Twelve days into training camp, the starters seem set: Dre' Bly and Fernando Bryant on the corners, Terrence Holt at free safety, Kenoy Kennedy at strong safety.

Bly has made the Pro Bowl the past two years. Bryant was hobbled by an ankle injury last season, but he's healthy now. Quarterback Joey Harrington said it was almost a wash when choosing whether to attack Bly or Bryant in practice.

"Normally you look over and see Dre' squatting and ready to pounce, and you think, 'OK, I'll go to the other side,' " Harrington said. "And then Fernando's sitting over there with the same look on his face."

Holt, in his third season, is getting his first real chance to start and will be watched closely. Kennedy, who signed as a free agent after five seasons in Denver, brings a reputation for heavy hitting.

"You know he's going to strike fear in an opponent coming across the middle," Bryant said. "It's an added dimension."

McQuarters might not be on the top of the depth chart right now, but he knew he wouldn't be when he signed as a free agent.

"Wherever the opportunity presents itself," he said, "then I'll just go capitalize on it."

The coaches know McQuarters well -- defensive coordinator Dick Jauron was his head coach in Chicago, Mariucci was his head coach in San Francisco -- and should have plenty of ways to fit him in. McQuarters has been lining up as a cornerback in camp, but with the Bears last season, he finished as a free safety.

"He is a smart enough guy to play several different spots," Mariucci said. "Not a lot of guys in this league have played cornerback, safety and nickel. Those are different skills and different physical requirements, and he has a chance to do all of those."

The real battles are for the other backup spots: Chris Cash, Andre' Goodman, Keith Smith and Stanley Wilson at cornerback; Kentrell Curry, Vernon Fox and Bracy Walker at safety. Special teams value will be an important consideration.

"We've got really healthy competition," Mariucci said. "We're going to have to make some decisions on this team."

By no means is the secondary a dominant unit at this point.

"We're still jelling," Bryant said.

But like the team as a whole, it has a lot of potential.

"With all the talent back there," Johnson said, "the sky's the limit."

NOTEBOOK: Wide receiver Charles Rogers is in his third NFL season, but he's really not. He played only five games as a rookie and virtually none in his second season before suffering breaks in his right collarbone. "Normally, a third-year guy will have had more playing time under his belt," Mariucci said. "He has some catching up to do. He's certainly capable. He played well when he was a rookie, and we've missed him ever since. He's right on target right now." ...

The Lions didn't practice Sunday. They will practice twice today.

The Freep (http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions8e_20050808.htm)

ALinChainz

08-08-2005, 04:18 PM

Monday, August 8, 2005

McQuarters helped bring change

Versatile defender was part of a Bears team whose victory led to the arrival of Millen in 2001.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

ALLEN PARK -- For symbolic reasons, the football helmet R.W. McQuarters wears in the Lions' training camp could be a hard hat on a construction site.

Five years ago, McQuarters was part of a Chicago Bears wrecking crew in a season-ending victory over the Lions. The outcome led to the dismantling of the Lions' front office and the start of the most extreme makeover in the history of owner William Clay Ford's franchise.

In a game played on Christmas Eve of 2000 at the Silverdome, the Bears shattered the Lions' playoff hopes with a 23-20 victory. McQuarters contributed a 61-yard interception return for a touchdown in Chicago's fourth-quarter rally.

Two weeks later, a disgusted and disillusioned Ford hired Matt Millen as president, and a massive rebuilding project began.

This season, McQuarters is a building block in what should be the finishing work on that project. He signed with the Lions as a free agent in June -- an accomplished defensive back with the experience and versatility to play cornerback, nickel back and safety developed in seven pro seasons. He also returns kicks and punts.

"What a great addition to this team," coach Steve Mariucci said as the Lions ended the first week of training camp. "He's a pro. I had him in San Francisco as a young guy, 20 years old. He's matured and grown into a pro.

"He does exactly what you ask him to do."

McQuarters moved on with his career after that watershed -- for the Lions -- game in Detroit in 2000. He played four more seasons in Chicago and never considered his part in helping to rewrite the Lions' future.

"I didn't know anything about Detroit," McQuarters said between training-camp practices. "It's one of these situations, being a CEO (Ford), you say, 'What can we do to correct this problem?'

"You change the staff and change whatever you feel like you need to change in order to better your organization. Obviously, that's what they did."

McQuarters enjoys his work and has fun playing the game.

Asked what the initials R.W. stand for, he replied: "Running Wild."

"No, it's Robert William," he added quickly. "I got that my rookie year in San Francisco. Somebody called me Running Wild."

In that 2000 game, the Lions had what amounted to a walkover for a playoff spot. They had a 9-6 record, fresh off an inspiring 10-7 victory over the Jets the previous week at the Meadowlands. The Bears had a 4-11 record.

The Lions built a 10-0 lead in the first nine minutes, then stumbled and collapsed.

They lost quarterback Charlie Batch to a rib injury. Batch's replacement, Stoney Case, had two huge misplays in the fourth quarter. One was McQuarters' touchdown return that gave Chicago a 20-17 lead with 6:31 left in the game.

Case lost a fumble at the Bears' 45-yard line with 39 seconds left. With two seconds left, Paul Edinger kicked a 54-yard field goal to give the Bears a 23-20 victory. The front office and coaching staff soon came tumbling down.

McQuarters isn't concerned with history. The Lions have retooled their secondary this season, and he is an important addition.

Cornerbacks Dre' Bly and Fernando Bryant are the only opening-day starters from '04 who are still starting.

Free agent Kenoy Kennedy of Denver was signed to add some authority at strong safety. Bracy Walker returns as a backup and special-teams standout. Free safety Brock Marion was released. The job belongs -- for now -- to third-year safety Terrence Holt.

There is depth at cornerback behind Bly, Bryant and McQuarters, with 2002 draft picks Andre Goodman and Chris Cash, Keith Smith, a third-round pick last season and rookie Stanley Wilson, a third-round pick.

"We've got really healthy competition at the corners," Mariucci said. "Maybe the deepest position of our team is our corner spot."

McQuarters has seen both sides of change in his career. He was San Francisco's first-round pick in 1998 but was released in 2000. Chicago released him after five seasons in a salary-cap related move.

McQuarters has played 99 games, with 57 starts.

Detroit News (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0508/08/D01-272945.htm)

ALinChainz

08-12-2005, 03:14 PM

Lions take first step toward the season

Players will escape the monotony of camp, but not the scrutiny of coaches, in opener.

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

Winning isn't everything during the NFL's exhibition season.

In fact, it probably doesn't mean anything.

Still, there is something worthwhile about tonight's exhibition between the Lions and Jets at the Meadowlands.

It is the first real chance for both teams to gauge their development since the end of last season.

Take the Lions, who have a wellspring of optimism thanks to the addition of free agents and draft picks, the potential for a more capable offense and the maturation of young players.

The Jets, meanwhile, have fine-tuned their roster from a year ago, when they made the playoffs at 10-6 and advanced to an AFC divisional playoff. They were eliminated by Pittsburgh in overtime.

Regardless of records or aspirations, there is a sense of anticipation among the Lions for a game to break the routine of training camp. The outcome might not be significant, but it is important for players to do well for however long they are in the game.

Whether it is experienced players getting ready for the regular season, or borderline prospects trying to win roster spots, quality of performance is more important than quantity of plays.

"You do have to play them enough to get their rhythm together and get their communication put together properly for the opener," coach Steve Mariucci said. "Then you have to play the other guys enough to evaluate them properly.

"This part of the evaluation is huge. All the other practice, it counts, too. When you're playing under the lights, that really counts."

Lions quarterback Joey Harrington summed up his objective for tonight in one word.

"Consistency," he said. "In one quarter, we're not going to go out there and put up 30 points. We're not going to throw up tons of huge numbers on offense, but we can have a good quarter.

"We're not going to look at the end of the game and say we had 300 yards passing and 150 rushing because we're not going to be on the field enough. We're just looking for some consistency to kind of kick off the season."

Ted Tollner, the new coordinator, has added his imprint to Mariucci's West Coast offense.

The Lions won't run a new scheme, but Tollner's background in the NFL is with offenses that stressed throwing downfield more than the Lions have done in the last four years.

"It's exactly the same offense I've had since the second I stepped in the door here," Harrington said. "There's nothing different about the terminology, about the play-calling. It's the same playbook.

"I think Ted has brought an emphasis -- given us a little freedom to take some shots down the field."

Harrington has had dozens of practices during offseason mini-camps and training camp with a group of receivers that was overhauled from last year.

Charles Rogers is back from a broken collarbone. Mike Williams was drafted in the first round. Kevin Johnson and tight end Marcus Pollard were signed as free agents.

"I'm going to be interested to see how people respond," Harrington said.

"We've had some great things happen in practice, and we've have some pretty average things happen in practice that makes you think we need to be out here (in practice) a little longer.

"I'm anxious to see how we'll respond in an actual game."

Detroit News (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0508/12/D01-278656.htm)

ALinChainz

08-12-2005, 03:21 PM

Friday, August 12, 2005

Story lines to watch in tonight's exhibition

By Mike O'Hara / The Detroit News

Quarterbacks

Even if there isn't true competition for the starting quarterback job, it will be interesting to evaluate and compare how Joey Harrington and Jeff Garcia perform against the Jets tonight in the Meadowlands.

Both probably will play about a quarter. Rookie Dan Orlovsky will finish.

"I would like to be very efficient," Harrington said. "I'd like to put a good drive together in the first quarter."

Coach Steve Mariucci wants Garcia to play with the starters at some point during the exhibition season. Tonight is a good time for that.

Passing game

In automobile terms, there has been a model changeover and redesign since the end of last season.

The personnel overhaul is extensive. Among the receivers, Roy Williams is the only returning starter who finished the 2004 season. Charles Rogers is back from a broken collarbone, Mike Williams was drafted in the first round, and receiver Kevin Johnson and tight end Marcus Pollard were signed as free agents.

Coordinator Ted Tollner is responsible for redesigning the offense. But don't count on the Lions' showing much.

"If you want to really understand what Ted Tollner is all about," Garcia said, "he worked with San Diego when Dan Fouts was there.

"He brings a wide-open passing game. I think he opens things up a little bit more. I think he tries to spread the field a little bit more."

Offensive line

There are two new starters -- left guard Rick DeMulling, a free agent from Indianapolis, and right tackle Kelly Butler, who was inactive for all 16 games as a rookie last season. Butler was given the job during the offseason. Now he has to start keeping it.

Defensive backs

Kenoy Kennedy is the new starter at strong safety. He brings a hitter's reputation. Terrence Holt, in his third season, gets the first shot at free safety.

Competition for roster spots is intense among the backup cornerbacks.

Injured players

Tonight's game has extra meaning for Rogers and strong-side linebacker Boss Bailey.

Rogers was in for three plays in 2004. Bailey didn't play at all because of knee surgery in training camp.

Both are healthy and need to play in a game.

Mike Williams

Williams is a special case. He missed the 2004 college season because of an NCAA suspension related to his attempt to enter that year's NFL draft. His last game was the Rose Bowl against Michigan on Jan. 1, 2004.

He will be be the No. 4 receiver, but he could get the most playing time of the top four.

"I can't wait to see him play," Mariucci said.

Lions vs Jets (http://www.detnews.com/2005/lions/0508/12/D01-278659.htm)

ALinChainz

08-12-2005, 03:35 PM

On paper: Offensive juggernaut! On field: Who knows?

August 12, 2005

BY NICHOLAS J. COTSONIKA
FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

The Lions face a huge challenge on offense: living up to the hype.

Their own hype.

"We've got so much firepower, man, it's ridiculous," wide receiver Roy Williams said early in training camp. "It's like weapons of mass destruction. ... This is like a Pro Bowl team, almost."

There's no question the Lions are impressive on paper. They have seven players who were drafted in the first round in the past six years, including four top-10 picks, plus two players who started on Indianapolis' awesome offense last season. That's a lot of talent.

The question is whether the Lions will be impressive on the field, whether their talent will translate into touchdowns. They also have a lot of inexperience and a lot of issues to overcome. This week, as they prepared for tonight's exhibition opener at the New York Jets, Williams said: "I think we still need a lot of work. ... We've got a long way to go."

"Right now we've got a lot of potential, but potential don't mean anything if you don't win," tight end Marcus Pollard said. "We've got a lot of guys that can play, a lot of guys that can make plays. We've just got to go out and do it."

The Lions ranked 24th in total offense (293.3 yards a game) and scoring offense (18.5 points a game) last season. What has changed? Why the optimism?

•Wide receiver: With the 10th pick in the draft the Lions took Mike Williams, a touchdown machine at Southern California who should be a big target on third down and in the red zone. Charles Rogers, the second pick in 2003, recovered from his second broken collarbone in two years; Roy Williams, the seventh pick in '04, recovered from an ankle injury that hampered him last season. The Lions also signed veteran Kevin Johnson.

•Line: The Lions signed left guard Rick DeMulling, who started for the Colts last season, and inserted right tackle Kelly Butler, a hard worker with size, strength and a mean streak. Right guard Damien Woody, New England's first-round pick in 1999, was fined for being overweight last season, but he came into camp in shape with his sights set on returning to the Pro Bowl. Left tackle Jeff Backus, a first-rounder in 2001, returns with center Dominic Raiola.

•Tight end: The Lions signed Pollard, another former Colts starter, who should catch a lot of the check-down passes in the West Coast offense.

•Running back: Kevin Jones, a first-round pick in 2004, showed up for his second season looking even better than he did at the end of his rookie season -- and he rushed for 906 yards in his last eight games.

•Quarterback: Joey Harrington, the third pick in 2002, has a strong supporting cast for the first time -- and is being pushed. The Lions signed Jeff Garcia, who went to two playoffs and three Pro Bowls in San Francisco when Lions coach Steve Mariucci was leading the 49ers.

•Coordinator: The Lions hired Ted Tollner, who will call the plays from the press box and wants to throw the ball downfield more often.

"He is very aggressive," Johnson said. "He is going for your throat. He has a very controlled pass, but he can also go for the kill."

The hope is that Jones will keep defenses guessing and put the Lions in more advantageous passing situations, allowing Harrington and the wide receivers to go for it more often. Tollner hasn't changed the playbook or the terminology. The Lions are going to keep the ball-control, shallow-pass, run-after-catch elements of the West Coast offense. But Tollner said he wanted to increase the percentage of plays in which the ball was caught beyond 15 or 20 yards.

"That's one of our goals," Tollner said. "We want to make more plays that are 20 yards plus. Well, you've got to work on it, you've got to have it in your scheme, and more importantly you've got to call it when game day comes."

The worries?

•Inexperience: Mike Williams hasn't played a football game in 19 months, because he tried to enter the NFL draft after his sophomore season, was ineligible to return to USC and sat out last season. Rogers has played only six NFL games because of injury. Butler hasn't played an NFL snap, because he was buried on the depth chart as a rookie last season.

•Issues: Can everyone stay healthy, Rogers in particular? Harrington carries the burden of his 14-30 record as a starter, getting booed even at a public practice in his home stadium, and must perform to avoid being replaced.

"What we need out of our quarterback is, you've got to be a consistent playmaker," Tollner said. "He's capable of it, we expect him to do it, and we need it for us to be good."

Tollner cautioned against reading too much into tonight's game, and he acknowledged the offense would need time to come together. Practices have been going as expected at this stage: Overall, the defense has been ahead of the offense. On offense, the linemen, tight ends and running backs have been ahead of the receivers and quarterbacks. The passing game is usually the last thing to click.

But Tollner didn't preach patience.

"The jury's out on how the season unfolds, but we're excited about where we think we're going to be," Tollner said. "We want to get there fast. We don't want to wait and say, 'You need to grow up.' We want it to happen now."

NOTEBOOK: It takes two to improve the passing game. Harrington has to be more accurate; his receivers have to drop fewer balls. "If there's a shallow crosser coming through, you can't throw it behind him," Tollner said. "You've got to hit him. You've got to hit him consistently. Now, on the same token, we're going to tell our wideouts, 'If that ball's not perfect every time, you've got to catch that. You're a big-time player, too. So give us a bigger area of catching. Don't give us a little narrow target.' Big-time players give us a big target, and big-time quarterbacks put it within it." ...

Mariucci said he couldn't wait to see Mike Williams face the Jets. "He just had pads on the first time a few days ago, and now he's really going to get tackled," Mariucci said. "I'm sure after the first hit he'll get up and go, 'Yeah, that felt good.' " Mariucci said he would just throw Williams in there. "It's like throwing your little 4-year-old kid on the bike," Mariucci said. " 'Go crash a couple times and then you'll learn how to do this.' "

The Freep (http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions12e_20050812.htm)

Sarge's Little Helper

08-12-2005, 03:36 PM

ALinChainz

08-13-2005, 12:21 AM

Harrington looked pretty impressive tonight going 9-9 for 100 yards.

The Lions lost 10-3 to the Jets.

Rookie QB Dan Orvolsky couldn't connect with fellow rookie Mike Williams on a fade pattern on the game's last play (poorly thrown).

ALinChainz

08-13-2005, 12:26 AM

And Garcia looked like dogshit.

Not good at all.

I thought the rookie 3rd stringer looked way better.

ALinChainz

08-13-2005, 12:28 AM

Lions | Schlesinger Out Six-Eight Weeks
Fri, 12 Aug 2005 20:49:13 -0700

Updating a previous report, the Associated Press reports Detroit Lions FB Cory Schlesinger (leg) is expected to miss six-eight weeks with a broken bone in his leg. "That's a tough one on us, but he'll be back early in the season," head coach Steve Mariucci said.

http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl

ALinChainz

08-13-2005, 12:29 AM

Lions | Harrington Perfect
Fri, 12 Aug 2005 19:54:10 -0700

Mike O'Hara, of the Detroit News, reports Detroit Lions QB Joey Harrington was a perfect 9 for 9 passing during the team's 10-3 loss to the New York Jets, Friday, August 12. He played two series and accumulated 100 yards of passing. Harrington was sharp and decisive as he spread the ball to his receivers. "It's good to get off on the right foot like that," Harrington said in a television interview. "It's always a little nerve-racking coming out for the first game of the season, but we moved the ball pretty well. We still made some mistakes on offense, but those are things to be expected in the first preseason game."

http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl

ALinChainz

08-13-2005, 02:00 PM

Joey vs. Jeff: Round 1 to the youngster

Detroit Free Press
August 13, 2005

•Wow, Joey looked good, didn't he? Maybe the Lions should bring in Terry Bradshaw to talk to him every week.

•But zero TDs? Same ol' Lions.

•Harrington played about a quarter and a half, Garcia about a quarter and rookie Dan Orlovsky the rest. The quarterbacks'

numbers:

CMP/ATT YDS TD INT
Harrington 9/9 100 0 0
Garcia 7/11 52 0 1
Orlovsky 8/17 87 0 1

•If Joey keeps this up in the regular season, he'd be on pace for a 576-for-576, 6,400-yard season. If he does that, it's possible Lions fans won't boo him.

•Joey hit six different receivers, with Roy Williams (three catches) his favorite target.

•As for the offense as a whole: We saw some four-receiver sets. But the Lions didn't go crazy throwing downfield.

•Joey didn't hit Mike Williams, but the rookie caught a pair of 14-yard passes in the fourth.

POJO_Risin

08-13-2005, 02:18 PM

That's because Garcia IS Dogshit...

it's funny...people are looking at him as though he has been playing well...

well...

WHEN WAS the last time he played very well?...

POJO_Risin

08-13-2005, 02:24 PM

He's a poor man's Kurt Warner...

living on the past...and now...the pretty fucking distant past...

ALinChainz

08-13-2005, 04:58 PM

A lot of people in Michigan down on Harrington and his less than stellar 77.something Qb rating last year and what a great pick-up Garcia was.

Jeff's was just a shade over 76 last season.

But his arrival may have done what the Lions had hoped, put a fire under Joey's ass.

Warham

08-13-2005, 05:58 PM

Not bad last night, AL.

POJO_Risin

08-13-2005, 06:27 PM

I have no problem with optimism...Harrington did look good...

but going 9-9 has to be tempered with the fact that there wasn't a TD scored...and it's damn early in the preseason...

again...we will see...

if Harrington doesn't pan out this year...it's going to be painful going .500 knowing it could be a boatload more...

ALinChainz

08-15-2005, 02:47 PM

Originally posted by POJO_Risin
I have no problem with optimism...Harrington did look good...

but going 9-9 has to be tempered with the fact that there wasn't a TD scored...and it's damn early in the preseason...

again...we will see...

if Harrington doesn't pan out this year...it's going to be painful going .500 knowing it could be a boatload more...

You're right. The team isn't printing up playoff tickets yet for sure. They went to the run game once he got them down there and took a sack.

No TD sucked.

ALinChainz

08-15-2005, 02:48 PM

Lions: Fullback by committee

by Fanball Staff - Fanball.com
Monday, August 15, 2005

News

With Cory Schlesinger out with a broken leg for the next six to eight weeks, the Lions will make do at fullback with a committee. Shawn Bryson will be used at the position a little more, as well as Paul Smith and rookie Will Matthews—or "headache" as he has been known since his days at Texas. "Back in college, I hit some people hard sometimes and they would get headaches," Matthews told the Detroit Free Press. "So they kind of started that."

Views

Smith and Matthews are the blockers and Bryson will be more of the pass-catching fullback option, though none of the three are even close to being fantasy material. Between the three of them, however, they should enable Kevin Jones' lofty fantasy value.

ALinChainz

08-20-2005, 10:18 PM

Lions, boo birds and ducks – oh my

By Dan Wetzel, Yahoo! Sports

August 20, 2005

DETROIT – So far in two weeks of preseason football, Joey Harrington is 14-for-15 for 146 yards. He has no touchdowns but also no interceptions and, get this, no boos.

Or at least, no boos since he was hooted by ornery Detroit Lions fans at an open practice – "we're talking about practice" – a couple of weeks back.

Oh, and it gets even better for the incumbent Harrington and the possible Detroit Lions quarterback controversy. Even though offseason veteran signee Jeff Garcia has shown a knack for moving the offense, he keeps floating up deep ducks that get picked off.

One of Garcia's two picks Saturday in the Lions' 21-13 preseason loss to the Cleveland Browns here at Ford Field was so bad that Garcia got booed.

Harrington isn't the kind of guy to gloat, but you wouldn't blame him for enjoying it. It is Garcia, after all, that a lot of Lions fans favor if only because he isn't Joey Harrington.

But if you can assert anything after two preseason games featuring vanilla play calling, it is that Harrington's hold on the starting position is only getting stronger. He hasn't played much – he again was pulled after the first quarter Saturday – or gotten the Lions into the end zone, but he certainly is having fun hitting that fleet of fleet Detroit receivers.

"I feel good," said Harrington, who is about to start his fourth season. "I feel pretty good right now. The guys have a better understanding of what we are trying to do. It seems like guys are in the right spot, which makes my job easier."

Whether Lions fans hate Harrington, or just want to put him on notice that after three lackluster seasons (and now having a bunch of big-play talent at his disposal) it is time to deliver, is open to debate. But there is a disconnect between QB and crowd.

This is a franchise that has won a meager one playoff game since 1957. The fan base isn't starved; it's emaciated.

Much was made when the Lions took Harrington out of Oregon with the third pick in the 2002 draft. He is a big, good-looking kid who was supposed to bring charisma, leadership and a cannon arm to the position.

Instead he has delivered more interceptions (50) than touchdowns (48), and the Lions are a dreadful 14-30 when he starts. His career QB rating is 67.2.

To make matters worse his West Coast cool, low-key, non-demonstrative leadership style and off-field hobbies that include playing the piano haven't exactly connected him with this blue-collar town.

That's how Harrington wound up getting booed during a practice earlier this month; it was Detroit's way of saying he is on the clock.

But rather than pout, the eternal optimist just smiled through it. He may wind up with the last laugh.

Harrington backers (and there are some in town) are quick to accurately point out that the talent around Joey has been more NFL Europe than NFC North. Bad receivers, bad running backs, bad blockers, Harrington has seen it all.

You don't stink like the Lions because of one guy.

But that's no longer the case now that president Matt Millen and coach Steve Mariucci spent the last few drafts loading up on skill players. Harrington has a young receiving corps with limitless potential – Charles Rogers, Roy Williams and Mike Williams – all top-10 draft picks. He has a second-year running back, Kevin Jones, who went for 1,113 yards as a rookie and is only getting better.

So last year's 6-10 record had better get better – which is why when Garcia was signed in the offseason, the pressure was turned up on Harrington.

Deliver or sit.

Harrington looks on the verge of delivering.

"I think we took a step forward," he said. "We did some good things."

Mariucci agreed and cited both the growth of Harrington and the emerging supporting cast around him. Again, it's early, but 14-for-15 is 14-for-15.

"He's making pretty good decisions," Mariucci said. "And we're doing some things to allow him to take some chances a little because he can handle it now. And his guys are not all a bunch of rookies. They can handle it, too."

As for Garcia, he looks no less volatile than the guy who the Browns released a year ago. At 35 he still can move well (he had 36 rushing yards Saturday), but his propensity to attempt daring throws has snuffed out a budding QB controversy.

He certainly hasn't done anything thus far that will get the talk shows amped up about a change in the depth chart.

With an offense as intriguing as any other in the NFL, though, all that can change here with an interception or three. Harrington always has had the ability to look good. In the past he just hasn't delivered on that promise.

So far this preseason, though, no boos.

Dan Wetzel is Yahoo! Sports' national columnist. Send him a question or comment for potential use in a future column or webcast.