
        <h2>The Case for a Detroit Do-Not-Draft List</h2><p>Jeff Risdon sets a different agenda on the Detroit Lions Podcast. Not the usual mock. Not a wish list. A do-not-draft list. The focus is fit, risk, and timing for the Detroit Lions in the NFL Draft. He wants to plant flags now on prospects who match Detroit’s general profile yet still should be avoided at certain prices.</p><p>His lens is simple. What have we learned from recent cycles about traits, health, and roster priorities. Where does a strong prospect still become a poor bet for Detroit’s current build.</p><h2>Drawing Lines From Past Drafts</h2><p>Risdon rewinds to the tight end class that produced LaPorta. He recalls being on the field with Russell Brown and Chris at the Senior Bowl and watching Luke Musgrave struggle. Couldn’t beat a jam. Didn’t win contested balls. Red zone reps went nowhere. He was fine as a prospect. He just was not the right Lions pick. Detroit chose differently, and he was glad they did.</p><p>Last spring brought another caution. Landon Jackson, the defensive end from Arkansas, looked the part but lacked twitch. The concern was real enough that he hoped Detroit would pass. Again, a solid player. Just not the best choice for what the Lions needed then.</p><h2>Why Jermott McCoy Gives Detroit Pause</h2><p>The headline name is cornerback Jermott McCoy from Tennessee. He sits at No. 20 on the Detroit Lions Podcast consensus big board that Chris updates daily. The tape from 2024 at Tennessee is outstanding. First round caliber traits show up. Speed. Instincts. Power. Route adjustment. That is not the problem.</p><p>The issues are availability and experience. McCoy missed the 2025 season after a January 2025 injury. He was allegedly cleared but chose not to return. He did not work out at the combine because he still was not right. A pro day looms on March 31, but there is worry he might not go there either. He has 17 college starts across two programs. That combination of recent injury and limited mileage is a pass for Detroit at premium cost.</p><p>Roster context matters. Detroit likely has its top five cornerbacks on the roster already. The room feels competitive and deep enough that a first round corner is not a need. If they add, it should be someone they trust to play right away without medical questions. Risdon admits he is more cautious on injuries than many. That tension sits against a front office that has embraced risk before.</p><h2>Wide Receiver Risk: Jordan Tyson</h2><p>Jordan Tyson from Arizona State is a different kind of red flag. On skill, he might be the best wide receiver in this class. The problem is a lengthy injury history and a style that refuses self-preservation. He is still not working out post-injury. Detroit is loaded at wide receiver. That likely keeps the position off the board until the middle of Day 3, if not later. Talent is real. The fit and timing are not.</p>

#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #nfldraft #jermodmccoy #akheemmesidor #kylelouis #calebbanks #ltoverton<p> </p><p>Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a></p>
      

<description>The Case for a Detroit Do-Not-Draft List
Jeff Risdon sets a different agenda on the Detroit Lions Podcast. Not the usual mock. Not a wish list. A do-not-draft list. The focus is fit, risk, and timing for the Detroit Lions in the NFL Draft. He wants to plant flags now on prospects who match Detroit’s general profile yet still should be avoided at certain prices.
His lens is simple. What have we learned from recent cycles about traits, health, and roster priorities. Where does a strong prospect still become a poor bet for Detroit’s current build.
Drawing Lines From Past Drafts
Risdon rewinds to the tight end class that produced LaPorta. He recalls being on the field with Russell Brown and Chris at the Senior Bowl and watching Luke Musgrave struggle. Couldn’t beat a jam. Didn’t win contested balls. Red zone reps went nowhere. He was fine as a prospect. He just was not the right Lions pick. Detroit chose differently, and he was glad they did.
Last spring brought another caution. Landon Jackson, the defensive end from Arkansas, looked the part but lacked twitch. The concern was real enough that he hoped Detroit would pass. Again, a solid player. Just not the best choice for what the Lions needed then.
Why Jermott McCoy Gives Detroit Pause
The headline name is cornerback Jermott McCoy from Tennessee. He sits at No. 20 on the Detroit Lions Podcast consensus big board that Chris updates daily. The tape from 2024 at Tennessee is outstanding. First round caliber traits show up. Speed. Instincts. Power. Route adjustment. That is not the problem.
The issues are availability and experience. McCoy missed the 2025 season after a January 2025 injury. He was allegedly cleared but chose not to return. He did not work out at the combine because he still was not right. A pro day looms on March 31, but there is worry he might not go there either. He has 17 college starts across two programs. That combination of recent injury and limited mileage is a pass for Detroit at premium cost.
Roster context matters. Detroit likely has its top five cornerbacks on the roster already. The room feels competitive and deep enough that a first round corner is not a need. If they add, it should be someone they trust to play right away without medical questions. Risdon admits he is more cautious on injuries than many. That tension sits against a front office that has embraced risk before.
Wide Receiver Risk: Jordan Tyson
Jordan Tyson from Arizona State is a different kind of red flag. On skill, he might be the best wide receiver in this class. The problem is a lengthy injury history and a style that refuses self-preservation. He is still not working out post-injury. Detroit is loaded at wide receiver. That likely keeps the position off the board until the middle of Day 3, if not later. Talent is real. The fit and timing are not.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #nfldraft #jermodmccoy #akheemmesidor #kylelouis #calebbanks #ltoverton
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The Daily DLP goes over 5 NFL Draft prospects for the Lions to avoid in 2026 due to injuries or fit, plus Prospect of the Day Travis Burke

The Case for a Detroit Do-Not-Draft List
Jeff Risdon sets a different agenda on the Detroit Lions Podcast. Not the usual mock. Not a wish list. A do-not-draft list. The focus is fit, risk, and timing for the Detroit Lions in the NFL Draft. He wants to plant flags now on prospects who match Detroit’s general profile yet still should be avoided at certain prices.
His lens is simple. What have we learned from recent cycles about traits, health, and roster priorities. Where does a strong prospect still become a poor bet for Detroit’s current build.
Drawing Lines From Past Drafts
Risdon rewinds to the tight end class that produced LaPorta. He recalls being on the field with Russell Brown and Chris at the Senior Bowl and watching Luke Musgrave struggle. Couldn’t beat a jam. Didn’t win contested balls. Red zone reps went nowhere. He was fine as a prospect. He just was not the right Lions pick. Detroit chose differently, and he was glad they did.
Last spring brought another caution. Landon Jackson, the defensive end from Arkansas, looked the part but lacked twitch. The concern was real enough that he hoped Detroit would pass. Again, a solid player. Just not the best choice for what the Lions needed then.
Why Jermott McCoy Gives Detroit Pause
The headline name is cornerback Jermott McCoy from Tennessee. He sits at No. 20 on the Detroit Lions Podcast consensus big board that Chris updates daily. The tape from 2024 at Tennessee is outstanding. First round caliber traits show up. Speed. Instincts. Power. Route adjustment. That is not the problem.
The issues are availability and experience. McCoy missed the 2025 season after a January 2025 injury. He was allegedly cleared but chose not to return. He did not work out at the combine because he still was not right. A pro day looms on March 31, but there is worry he might not go there either. He has 17 college starts across two programs. That combination of recent injury and limited mileage is a pass for Detroit at premium cost.
Roster context matters. Detroit likely has its top five cornerbacks on the roster already. The room feels competitive and deep enough that a first round corner is not a need. If they add, it should be someone they trust to play right away without medical questions. Risdon admits he is more cautious on injuries than many. That tension sits against a front office that has embraced risk before.
Wide Receiver Risk: Jordan Tyson
Jordan Tyson from Arizona State is a different kind of red flag. On skill, he might be the best wide receiver in this class. The problem is a lengthy injury history and a style that refuses self-preservation. He is still not working out post-injury. Detroit is loaded at wide receiver. That likely keeps the position off the board until the middle of Day 3, if not later. Talent is real. The fit and timing are not.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #nfldraft #jermodmccoy #akheemmesidor #kylelouis #calebbanks #ltoverton
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Daily DLP: 5 Potential Draft Targets to Avoid - Detroit Lions Podcast


        <h2>Center solved: Cade Mays and the pocket math</h2><p>The Detroit Lions moved decisively at the spot that mattered most. Center was a top need. Cade Mays arrives as the prize of this free agency window and fits what this offense asks. He is better in pass pro than as a straight mauler. That matters for Jared Goff. Immediate interior pressure is what stresses this passing game. Mays lowers that risk and stabilizes the middle.</p><p>His background adds value. In four years in Carolina, he worked under three different offensive coordinators with different blocking schemes. He played guard early, shifted responsibilities, and handled more read and react asks. He has not been asked to be aggressive while at center. Detroit can shape that. The contract tells the story too. Mays is the only multiyear signing so far. That signals starting center now and a long-term plan inside.</p><h2>Short-term bets and a long-term tell</h2><p>Elsewhere, the approach stayed disciplined. One-year deals fill immediate needs without anchoring the cap to older veterans. Avoidance of bad contracts is the point. Younger players with short-term upside get the nod over aging names signed for comfort. Expectations of a giant splash never made sense beyond center.</p><p>Nothing they did, with the exception of Mays, should tilt the draft board. The front office cleared the road for April. Flexibility matters in the NFL. Detroit can target value and avoid reaching. The Detroit Lions Podcast framed it simply: stock the depth chart now, let the draft finish the job.</p><h2>Tackle depth, placeholders, and the next move</h2><p>Larry Borom arrived to be the swing tackle and a placeholder at left tackle while Decker is still out there. The number is modest, roughly in that $5 million range, and not a commitment. He is an upgrade over Giovanni Manu and over what Dan Skipper offered last year. Skipper is coaching now, which closes that loop.</p><p>There is more depth in the pipeline. Horton has upside and is from Detroit. Juice Scruggs came in via the demo trade and profiles as another interior option. These are the kinds of layers that keep an NFL roster functional through camp and into October. One question remains open by design: is Borom better on the right or left? The Lions can let that play out while the draft provides another swing at tackle or interior help. The plan stays intact, and the board stays clean.</p>

#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #cademays #startingcenter #passpro #interiorpressure #jaredgoff #blockingschemes #readandreactasks #playedguardearly #multiyearsigning #draftboardflexibility<p> </p><p>Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a></p>
      

<description>Center solved: Cade Mays and the pocket math
The Detroit Lions moved decisively at the spot that mattered most. Center was a top need. Cade Mays arrives as the prize of this free agency window and fits what this offense asks. He is better in pass pro than as a straight mauler. That matters for Jared Goff. Immediate interior pressure is what stresses this passing game. Mays lowers that risk and stabilizes the middle.
His background adds value. In four years in Carolina, he worked under three different offensive coordinators with different blocking schemes. He played guard early, shifted responsibilities, and handled more read and react asks. He has not been asked to be aggressive while at center. Detroit can shape that. The contract tells the story too. Mays is the only multiyear signing so far. That signals starting center now and a long-term plan inside.
Short-term bets and a long-term tell
Elsewhere, the approach stayed disciplined. One-year deals fill immediate needs without anchoring the cap to older veterans. Avoidance of bad contracts is the point. Younger players with short-term upside get the nod over aging names signed for comfort. Expectations of a giant splash never made sense beyond center.
Nothing they did, with the exception of Mays, should tilt the draft board. The front office cleared the road for April. Flexibility matters in the NFL. Detroit can target value and avoid reaching. The Detroit Lions Podcast framed it simply: stock the depth chart now, let the draft finish the job.
Tackle depth, placeholders, and the next move
Larry Borom arrived to be the swing tackle and a placeholder at left tackle while Decker is still out there. The number is modest, roughly in that $5 million range, and not a commitment. He is an upgrade over Giovanni Manu and over what Dan Skipper offered last year. Skipper is coaching now, which closes that loop.
There is more depth in the pipeline. Horton has upside and is from Detroit. Juice Scruggs came in via the demo trade and profiles as another interior option. These are the kinds of layers that keep an NFL roster functional through camp and into October. One question remains open by design: is Borom better on the right or left? The Lions can let that play out while the draft provides another swing at tackle or interior help. The plan stays intact, and the board stays clean.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #cademays #startingcenter #passpro #interiorpressure #jaredgoff #blockingschemes #readandreactasks #playedguardearly #multiyearsigning #draftboardflexibility
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Detroit signs Cade Mays on a multiyear deal to steady protection for Jared Goff, adds Larry Borom as swing tackle, and preserves draft flexibility.

Center solved: Cade Mays and the pocket math
The Detroit Lions moved decisively at the spot that mattered most. Center was a top need. Cade Mays arrives as the prize of this free agency window and fits what this offense asks. He is better in pass pro than as a straight mauler. That matters for Jared Goff. Immediate interior pressure is what stresses this passing game. Mays lowers that risk and stabilizes the middle.
His background adds value. In four years in Carolina, he worked under three different offensive coordinators with different blocking schemes. He played guard early, shifted responsibilities, and handled more read and react asks. He has not been asked to be aggressive while at center. Detroit can shape that. The contract tells the story too. Mays is the only multiyear signing so far. That signals starting center now and a long-term plan inside.
Short-term bets and a long-term tell
Elsewhere, the approach stayed disciplined. One-year deals fill immediate needs without anchoring the cap to older veterans. Avoidance of bad contracts is the point. Younger players with short-term upside get the nod over aging names signed for comfort. Expectations of a giant splash never made sense beyond center.
Nothing they did, with the exception of Mays, should tilt the draft board. The front office cleared the road for April. Flexibility matters in the NFL. Detroit can target value and avoid reaching. The Detroit Lions Podcast framed it simply: stock the depth chart now, let the draft finish the job.
Tackle depth, placeholders, and the next move
Larry Borom arrived to be the swing tackle and a placeholder at left tackle while Decker is still out there. The number is modest, roughly in that $5 million range, and not a commitment. He is an upgrade over Giovanni Manu and over what Dan Skipper offered last year. Skipper is coaching now, which closes that loop.
There is more depth in the pipeline. Horton has upside and is from Detroit. Juice Scruggs came in via the demo trade and profiles as another interior option. These are the kinds of layers that keep an NFL roster functional through camp and into October. One question remains open by design: is Borom better on the right or left? The Lions can let that play out while the draft provides another swing at tackle or interior help. The plan stays intact, and the board stays clean.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #cademays #startingcenter #passpro #interiorpressure #jaredgoff #blockingschemes #readandreactasks #playedguardearly #multiyearsigning #draftboardflexibility
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Detroit Lions Mid-March Media Roundtable - Detroit Lions Podcast


        <h2>Darius Slay’s sendoff and legacy</h2><p>The Detroit Lions Podcast opened with a moment for Darius Slay. The longtime cornerback announced his retirement. He was a fantastic player and an easy person to like. He represented Detroit well. He won a Super Bowl with the Eagles. He wants to spend time with his teenage kids and be a sports dad. Hall of Fame talk will follow him. That debate is fair. At minimum, he belongs in the hall of very good. Someday his No. 23 could spark a banner discussion at Ford Field.</p><h2>Quiet depth move up front</h2><p>Detroit did not add a headline name on Thursday. The Lions brought back a familiar defensive lineman on a low cost deal. He knows the defense. He can play inside and as a five tech. He showed backfield disruption in the injury ravaged 2024 season. He did not get many snaps last year. This is continuity. It is a depth signing that should stick.</p><h2>Free agency slows, draft needs sharpen</h2><p>The calendar now favors patience. Veterans are waiting for the NFL Draft to pass. They do not want to sign and watch a team spend a first round pick on their spot. Expect little action in free agency around Allen Park until after the draft. Several pass rushers are still out there with clear warts. DJ Reader is cited as No. 2 among available free agents. Taylor Decker shows up at No. 5 on that board.</p><h2>Mock focus at 17: tackles on the board</h2><p>Detroit opted for DJ Wonnum over AJ Epenesa in that tier. Wonnum gets into the backfield, even if the finish rate is uneven. He fits the Lions profile as the No. 3 edge. The plan still points to drafting another pass rusher in the first or second round. Maybe they double up. Mock drafts stacked up this week. One projection sent Blake Miller, offensive tackle from Clemson, to Detroit at 17. That buzz is growing. Another popular option in the mocks is Caleb Lomu, the offensive tackle from Utah. Tackle sits firmly in play at No. 17.</p>

#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #dariusslayretirement #halloffamedebate #fordfieldbannertalk #familiardefensivelineman #fivetech #backfielddisruption #injuryravaged2024season #freeagencyslows #allenparkuntilafterthedraft #djreaderrankedno.2<p> </p><p>Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a></p>
      

<description>Darius Slay’s sendoff and legacy
The Detroit Lions Podcast opened with a moment for Darius Slay. The longtime cornerback announced his retirement. He was a fantastic player and an easy person to like. He represented Detroit well. He won a Super Bowl with the Eagles. He wants to spend time with his teenage kids and be a sports dad. Hall of Fame talk will follow him. That debate is fair. At minimum, he belongs in the hall of very good. Someday his No. 23 could spark a banner discussion at Ford Field.
Quiet depth move up front
Detroit did not add a headline name on Thursday. The Lions brought back a familiar defensive lineman on a low cost deal. He knows the defense. He can play inside and as a five tech. He showed backfield disruption in the injury ravaged 2024 season. He did not get many snaps last year. This is continuity. It is a depth signing that should stick.
Free agency slows, draft needs sharpen
The calendar now favors patience. Veterans are waiting for the NFL Draft to pass. They do not want to sign and watch a team spend a first round pick on their spot. Expect little action in free agency around Allen Park until after the draft. Several pass rushers are still out there with clear warts. DJ Reader is cited as No. 2 among available free agents. Taylor Decker shows up at No. 5 on that board.
Mock focus at 17: tackles on the board
Detroit opted for DJ Wonnum over AJ Epenesa in that tier. Wonnum gets into the backfield, even if the finish rate is uneven. He fits the Lions profile as the No. 3 edge. The plan still points to drafting another pass rusher in the first or second round. Maybe they double up. Mock drafts stacked up this week. One projection sent Blake Miller, offensive tackle from Clemson, to Detroit at 17. That buzz is growing. Another popular option in the mocks is Caleb Lomu, the offensive tackle from Utah. Tackle sits firmly in play at No. 17.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #dariusslayretirement #halloffamedebate #fordfieldbannertalk #familiardefensivelineman #fivetech #backfielddisruption #injuryravaged2024season #freeagencyslows #allenparkuntilafterthedraft #djreaderrankedno.2
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Detroit Lions mock draft roundup, honoring Lions legend Darius Slay upon his retirement, and prospect of the day VJ Payne

Darius Slay’s sendoff and legacy
The Detroit Lions Podcast opened with a moment for Darius Slay. The longtime cornerback announced his retirement. He was a fantastic player and an easy person to like. He represented Detroit well. He won a Super Bowl with the Eagles. He wants to spend time with his teenage kids and be a sports dad. Hall of Fame talk will follow him. That debate is fair. At minimum, he belongs in the hall of very good. Someday his No. 23 could spark a banner discussion at Ford Field.
Quiet depth move up front
Detroit did not add a headline name on Thursday. The Lions brought back a familiar defensive lineman on a low cost deal. He knows the defense. He can play inside and as a five tech. He showed backfield disruption in the injury ravaged 2024 season. He did not get many snaps last year. This is continuity. It is a depth signing that should stick.
Free agency slows, draft needs sharpen
The calendar now favors patience. Veterans are waiting for the NFL Draft to pass. They do not want to sign and watch a team spend a first round pick on their spot. Expect little action in free agency around Allen Park until after the draft. Several pass rushers are still out there with clear warts. DJ Reader is cited as No. 2 among available free agents. Taylor Decker shows up at No. 5 on that board.
Mock focus at 17: tackles on the board
Detroit opted for DJ Wonnum over AJ Epenesa in that tier. Wonnum gets into the backfield, even if the finish rate is uneven. He fits the Lions profile as the No. 3 edge. The plan still points to drafting another pass rusher in the first or second round. Maybe they double up. Mock drafts stacked up this week. One projection sent Blake Miller, offensive tackle from Clemson, to Detroit at 17. That buzz is growing. Another popular option in the mocks is Caleb Lomu, the offensive tackle from Utah. Tackle sits firmly in play at No. 17.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #dariusslayretirement #halloffamedebate #fordfieldbannertalk #familiardefensivelineman #fivetech #backfielddisruption #injuryravaged2024season #freeagencyslows #allenparkuntilafterthedraft #djreaderrankedno.2
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Daily DLP: Lions mock draft roundup, Slay retires Detroit Lions Podcast


        <p>The Detroit Lions kept stacking useful pieces. On this Detroit Lions Podcast, Jeff Risdon, Chris, and Michael Grey broke down three new additions, all on one-year deals. Edge DJ Wonnum, wide receiver Greg Dortch, and linebacker Raymond Clark arrived as targeted fits. Another signing could be coming soon.</p><h2>New arrivals and a one-year plan</h2><p>The front office is leaning into short-term, role-specific help. Each deal is a fill-in. The message is clear. Add competitive depth without blocking long-term answers. The hosts also noted movement on another potential addition, with word that another Jones could be in play. The expectation is more action today.</p><h2>Edge plan: DJ Wonnum and the Paschal template</h2><p>Wonnum checks the Lions’ NFL edge profile. Physical style. Power to speed. Edge setter. He plays the run on the way to the quarterback better than he rushes the passer. That should sound familiar. Think the role carved out for Josh Paschal. Early in his career, this type has handled c gap and b gap snaps and bumped outside as needed. The vision is obvious. Wonnum can work five tech, set sturdy edges, and finish when opportunities come. He has starting experience and some sack production. He fits as a part-time player, likely edge three or edge four, depending on how the rest of the room shakes out. The depth chart mentions tied to this move matter too. Makai Wingo’s best spot is still in question. Ahmed Hassanein’s development is a variable. Levi Anserrique Reed has played outside and can handle five tech. The piece today is about defined jobs. Wonnum gives them one.</p><h2>Slot and return game: Greg Dortch’s fit with Petzing</h2><p>Dortch brings juice to the slot and special teams. He is five-foot-seven-ish, around a buck eighty, and a proven return specialist from the Arizona Cardinals. He worked with Drew Petzing and spoke at length about that trust in his introductory Zoom. He talked about love of football again and again, and his energy jumped off the screen. Dortch has bounced around, was advised at one point to consider the CFL, then the Cardinals gave him a shot. He ran with it. He is very sure handed, with a high catch rate over recent years. In Detroit, he profiles as a quick separator and secure outlet who can flip field position in the return game.</p><h2>Linebacker depth and what comes next</h2><p>Raymond Clark adds competition at linebacker. Another one-year, role-focused piece. Special teams and sub-package snaps are in play. The Lions are not done. The hosts repeated that. Expect another signing, with indications that talks on another Jones are moving. This roster building approach matches the recent surge of part-time, short-term additions. It fits the moment. Add the right tools. Keep flexibility. Let camp sort the rest.</p>

#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #djwonnum #gregdortch #damoneclark #nflfreeagency<p> </p><p>Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a></p>
      

<description>The Detroit Lions kept stacking useful pieces. On this Detroit Lions Podcast, Jeff Risdon, Chris, and Michael Grey broke down three new additions, all on one-year deals. Edge DJ Wonnum, wide receiver Greg Dortch, and linebacker Raymond Clark arrived as targeted fits. Another signing could be coming soon.
New arrivals and a one-year plan
The front office is leaning into short-term, role-specific help. Each deal is a fill-in. The message is clear. Add competitive depth without blocking long-term answers. The hosts also noted movement on another potential addition, with word that another Jones could be in play. The expectation is more action today.
Edge plan: DJ Wonnum and the Paschal template
Wonnum checks the Lions’ NFL edge profile. Physical style. Power to speed. Edge setter. He plays the run on the way to the quarterback better than he rushes the passer. That should sound familiar. Think the role carved out for Josh Paschal. Early in his career, this type has handled c gap and b gap snaps and bumped outside as needed. The vision is obvious. Wonnum can work five tech, set sturdy edges, and finish when opportunities come. He has starting experience and some sack production. He fits as a part-time player, likely edge three or edge four, depending on how the rest of the room shakes out. The depth chart mentions tied to this move matter too. Makai Wingo’s best spot is still in question. Ahmed Hassanein’s development is a variable. Levi Anserrique Reed has played outside and can handle five tech. The piece today is about defined jobs. Wonnum gives them one.
Slot and return game: Greg Dortch’s fit with Petzing
Dortch brings juice to the slot and special teams. He is five-foot-seven-ish, around a buck eighty, and a proven return specialist from the Arizona Cardinals. He worked with Drew Petzing and spoke at length about that trust in his introductory Zoom. He talked about love of football again and again, and his energy jumped off the screen. Dortch has bounced around, was advised at one point to consider the CFL, then the Cardinals gave him a shot. He ran with it. He is very sure handed, with a high catch rate over recent years. In Detroit, he profiles as a quick separator and secure outlet who can flip field position in the return game.
Linebacker depth and what comes next
Raymond Clark adds competition at linebacker. Another one-year, role-focused piece. Special teams and sub-package snaps are in play. The Lions are not done. The hosts repeated that. Expect another signing, with indications that talks on another Jones are moving. This roster building approach matches the recent surge of part-time, short-term additions. It fits the moment. Add the right tools. Keep flexibility. Let camp sort the rest.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #djwonnum #gregdortch #damoneclark #nflfreeagency
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The Daily DLP breaks down Lions one-year FA additions DJ Wonnum, Greg Dortch, and Damone Clark, plus Pro Day news and prospect of the day Malachi Lawrence

The Detroit Lions kept stacking useful pieces. On this Detroit Lions Podcast, Jeff Risdon, Chris, and Michael Grey broke down three new additions, all on one-year deals. Edge DJ Wonnum, wide receiver Greg Dortch, and linebacker Raymond Clark arrived as targeted fits. Another signing could be coming soon.
New arrivals and a one-year plan
The front office is leaning into short-term, role-specific help. Each deal is a fill-in. The message is clear. Add competitive depth without blocking long-term answers. The hosts also noted movement on another potential addition, with word that another Jones could be in play. The expectation is more action today.
Edge plan: DJ Wonnum and the Paschal template
Wonnum checks the Lions’ NFL edge profile. Physical style. Power to speed. Edge setter. He plays the run on the way to the quarterback better than he rushes the passer. That should sound familiar. Think the role carved out for Josh Paschal. Early in his career, this type has handled c gap and b gap snaps and bumped outside as needed. The vision is obvious. Wonnum can work five tech, set sturdy edges, and finish when opportunities come. He has starting experience and some sack production. He fits as a part-time player, likely edge three or edge four, depending on how the rest of the room shakes out. The depth chart mentions tied to this move matter too. Makai Wingo’s best spot is still in question. Ahmed Hassanein’s development is a variable. Levi Anserrique Reed has played outside and can handle five tech. The piece today is about defined jobs. Wonnum gives them one.
Slot and return game: Greg Dortch’s fit with Petzing
Dortch brings juice to the slot and special teams. He is five-foot-seven-ish, around a buck eighty, and a proven return specialist from the Arizona Cardinals. He worked with Drew Petzing and spoke at length about that trust in his introductory Zoom. He talked about love of football again and again, and his energy jumped off the screen. Dortch has bounced around, was advised at one point to consider the CFL, then the Cardinals gave him a shot. He ran with it. He is very sure handed, with a high catch rate over recent years. In Detroit, he profiles as a quick separator and secure outlet who can flip field position in the return game.
Linebacker depth and what comes next
Raymond Clark adds competition at linebacker. Another one-year, role-focused piece. Special teams and sub-package snaps are in play. The Lions are not done. The hosts repeated that. Expect another signing, with indications that talks on another Jones are moving. This roster building approach matches the recent surge of part-time, short-term additions. It fits the moment. Add the right tools. Keep flexibility. Let camp sort the rest.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #djwonnum #gregdortch #damoneclark #nflfreeagency
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Daily DLP: Lions add 3 free agents Detroit Lions Podcast


        <h2>A backfield pivot reshapes Detroit’s plan</h2><p>Scott Bischoff and Russell Brown returned to the Detroit Lions Podcast after a chaotic week of 80 mile per hour winds and the first surge of NFL free agency. Their focus was Detroit’s backfield. The Lions signed Isaiah Pacheco on a one year deal after agreeing to trade David Montgomery to the Houston Texans. Early last week, outside of Cade Mays and Pacheco, the board felt quiet. That pause raised the question of a defense heavy draft with nine or ten picks. By midweek, the tone changed. Detroit looked younger, healthier, and more intentional on both sides of the ball.</p><h2>How Isaiah Pacheco fits Detroit’s run game</h2><p>Pacheco’s usage in Kansas City lived inside a unique ecosystem. The offense followed Patrick Mahomes, often playing out of shotgun with inside zone and outside zone as staples. Timing was quick. Reads could get muddy. The result was a frenetic style. At times he pressed so hard he ran into his own linemen. Vision looked limited on that tape.</p><p>Detroit projects something different. With Jared Goff under center, the back has clearer landmarks and defined intent. The hosts expect better angles, more counter, and the pin and pull concepts that Drew Petzing loves. That structure could slow Pacheco’s clock and clean up his decisions. He still brings size and a physical edge. The price is light, roughly one to one and a half million dollars, all guaranteed for one season. It is a classic change of pace add that does not block a draft pick in April.</p><h2>Montgomery’s exit and the draft signal</h2><p>Moving Montgomery and renting Pacheco for a year points to a draft add. The board from round four through round six makes sense, and the Lions hold multiple picks in that range. Names surfaced as possibilities, including Nicholas Singleton, Cochran Allen, and Jahmari Taylor. Internal options exist too. Jacob Sailors is in the room. Vaki profiles as a special teams piece more than a true back. None of that keeps Detroit from targeting a runner who complements Pacheco now and carries a larger load later.</p><h2>Clock to the 2026 NFL Draft</h2><p>As of this Wednesday, the 2026 NFL Draft sits 36 days away. Early inactivity on defense sparked talk of spending most of the capital on that side of the ball. The recent moves eased some of that urgency. The Detroit Lions can pair a tough runner with under center structure, add a mid round back, and let the board dictate the rest. In a week that started slow, the plan sharpened. The NFL hinges on fit and timing. Detroit just gave itself both in the backfield.</p>

#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #isaiahpachecooneyeardeal #davidmontgomerytotexans #jaredgoffundercenter #pinandpullconcepts #insidezoneruns #outsidezoneruns #changeofpaceback #midroundrunningbacktarget #roundfourthroughroundsix #nicholassingleton<p> </p><p>Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://megaphone.fm/adchoices">megaphone.fm/adchoices</a></p>
      

<description>A backfield pivot reshapes Detroit’s plan
Scott Bischoff and Russell Brown returned to the Detroit Lions Podcast after a chaotic week of 80 mile per hour winds and the first surge of NFL free agency. Their focus was Detroit’s backfield. The Lions signed Isaiah Pacheco on a one year deal after agreeing to trade David Montgomery to the Houston Texans. Early last week, outside of Cade Mays and Pacheco, the board felt quiet. That pause raised the question of a defense heavy draft with nine or ten picks. By midweek, the tone changed. Detroit looked younger, healthier, and more intentional on both sides of the ball.
How Isaiah Pacheco fits Detroit’s run game
Pacheco’s usage in Kansas City lived inside a unique ecosystem. The offense followed Patrick Mahomes, often playing out of shotgun with inside zone and outside zone as staples. Timing was quick. Reads could get muddy. The result was a frenetic style. At times he pressed so hard he ran into his own linemen. Vision looked limited on that tape.
Detroit projects something different. With Jared Goff under center, the back has clearer landmarks and defined intent. The hosts expect better angles, more counter, and the pin and pull concepts that Drew Petzing loves. That structure could slow Pacheco’s clock and clean up his decisions. He still brings size and a physical edge. The price is light, roughly one to one and a half million dollars, all guaranteed for one season. It is a classic change of pace add that does not block a draft pick in April.
Montgomery’s exit and the draft signal
Moving Montgomery and renting Pacheco for a year points to a draft add. The board from round four through round six makes sense, and the Lions hold multiple picks in that range. Names surfaced as possibilities, including Nicholas Singleton, Cochran Allen, and Jahmari Taylor. Internal options exist too. Jacob Sailors is in the room. Vaki profiles as a special teams piece more than a true back. None of that keeps Detroit from targeting a runner who complements Pacheco now and carries a larger load later.
Clock to the 2026 NFL Draft
As of this Wednesday, the 2026 NFL Draft sits 36 days away. Early inactivity on defense sparked talk of spending most of the capital on that side of the ball. The recent moves eased some of that urgency. The Detroit Lions can pair a tough runner with under center structure, add a mid round back, and let the board dictate the rest. In a week that started slow, the plan sharpened. The NFL hinges on fit and timing. Detroit just gave itself both in the backfield.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #isaiahpachecooneyeardeal #davidmontgomerytotexans #jaredgoffundercenter #pinandpullconcepts #insidezoneruns #outsidezoneruns #changeofpaceback #midroundrunningbacktarget #roundfourthroughroundsix #nicholassingleton
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Scott Bischoff and Russell Brown explore Isaiah Pacheco’s one year deal, the Montgomery trade, under center run fits, and a mid round back in April.

A backfield pivot reshapes Detroit’s plan
Scott Bischoff and Russell Brown returned to the Detroit Lions Podcast after a chaotic week of 80 mile per hour winds and the first surge of NFL free agency. Their focus was Detroit’s backfield. The Lions signed Isaiah Pacheco on a one year deal after agreeing to trade David Montgomery to the Houston Texans. Early last week, outside of Cade Mays and Pacheco, the board felt quiet. That pause raised the question of a defense heavy draft with nine or ten picks. By midweek, the tone changed. Detroit looked younger, healthier, and more intentional on both sides of the ball.
How Isaiah Pacheco fits Detroit’s run game
Pacheco’s usage in Kansas City lived inside a unique ecosystem. The offense followed Patrick Mahomes, often playing out of shotgun with inside zone and outside zone as staples. Timing was quick. Reads could get muddy. The result was a frenetic style. At times he pressed so hard he ran into his own linemen. Vision looked limited on that tape.
Detroit projects something different. With Jared Goff under center, the back has clearer landmarks and defined intent. The hosts expect better angles, more counter, and the pin and pull concepts that Drew Petzing loves. That structure could slow Pacheco’s clock and clean up his decisions. He still brings size and a physical edge. The price is light, roughly one to one and a half million dollars, all guaranteed for one season. It is a classic change of pace add that does not block a draft pick in April.
Montgomery’s exit and the draft signal
Moving Montgomery and renting Pacheco for a year points to a draft add. The board from round four through round six makes sense, and the Lions hold multiple picks in that range. Names surfaced as possibilities, including Nicholas Singleton, Cochran Allen, and Jahmari Taylor. Internal options exist too. Jacob Sailors is in the room. Vaki profiles as a special teams piece more than a true back. None of that keeps Detroit from targeting a runner who complements Pacheco now and carries a larger load later.
Clock to the 2026 NFL Draft
As of this Wednesday, the 2026 NFL Draft sits 36 days away. Early inactivity on defense sparked talk of spending most of the capital on that side of the ball. The recent moves eased some of that urgency. The Detroit Lions can pair a tough runner with under center structure, add a mid round back, and let the board dictate the rest. In a week that started slow, the plan sharpened. The NFL hinges on fit and timing. Detroit just gave itself both in the backfield.


#detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #isaiahpachecooneyeardeal #davidmontgomerytotexans #jaredgoffundercenter #pinandpullconcepts #insidezoneruns #outsidezoneruns #changeofpaceback #midroundrunningbacktarget #roundfourthroughroundsix #nicholassingleton
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