Detroit Lions RB Competition

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Heading into the 2015-2016 season, the Detroit Lions have a crowded backfield. In today’s NFL, that’s not a bad thing. Many teams are moving to the running back by committee model. In this model, teams can not only keep fresh legs on the field at all times, but they also believe they can prolong the length of an NFL running back’s career. Many of these backs today begin to decline by age 27 or 28 when athletes in other sports would be just hitting their prime. Let’s take a look at who is expected to be splitting the carries for the Lions this season.

Joique Bell 5’11” 229 lbs

Bell shared the carries last season with Reggie Bush who is now with the 49ers but for the most part was the lead back. Bell was given 223 carries to Bush’s 76. Both managed a pedestrian 3.9 yards per carry but Bell managed 8 total touchdowns (7 rushing, 1 receiving). Bell showed great flashes and even proved to be a threat receiving the ball out of the backfield compiling 34 receptions for 322 yards. Bell figures to get a good share of the carries, especially between the tackles but there is a rookie right behind him in the pecking order.

Ameer Abdullah 5’9″ 205 lbs

Ameer Abdullah, detroit lions

Ameer Abdullah

The Lions selected Abdullah with the 54th overall pick in the 2015 draft. Abdullah had a decorated career at Nebraska rushing for over 1,600 yards in both his junior and senior season while also eclipsing 1,000 yards as a sophomore. For his career at Nebraska, Abdullah ran for 4,588 yards and 39 touchdowns. A threat in the passing game as well, Abdullah caught 73 passes for 690 yards and another 7 touchdowns. As a 2nd round pick, Abdullah will certainly be given his opportunities.

Theo Riddick 5’9″ 200 lbs

Riddick was selected in the 6th round with the 199th pick in the 2013 draft out of Notre Dame. He has not been much of a threat on the ground garnering 29 carries for 76 yards and 1 touchdown in his first 2 seasons in the league. He has however found a niche as a 3rd down back being a safety valve in the passing game for Matthew Stafford. In limited time in 2014, Riddick caught 34 passes for 316 yards and 4 touchdowns. Riddick will certainly find ways to get on the field this season because of his ability to make plays.

Another name to look out for is rookie fullback Michael Burton. Burton was selected in the 5th round (168th pick) in the 2015 draft out of Rutgers. After playing his senior season at 232 pounds, Burton weighed in at 242 in his pre-draft measurables and showed up to camp at 250. Burton has added the needed muscle to play fullback in the NFL. Primarily a lead blocker, Burton to manage to showcase some offensive skill in a poor Rutgers offense during he tenure. He managed 47 receptions for 401 yards and 3 touchdowns through the air and had 22 rushes for 116 yards on the ground. With an offense that allows him to do more, Burton could be a hidden option for the Lions.

NFL Preseason: Is it Worth a Players While?

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In recent years the NFL has discussed various different changes for the preseason. Do we get rid of it all together? Shorten it? In 2008, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell attempted to change the preseason’s format from 4 to 2 games but add 2 additional regular season games. It ultimately was rejected and the NFL continues to stand with 4 preseason games. Year after year, we see many great players in this league lost for the season or a portion of the season due to a preseason game. Here’s a few important players to their team who were recently injured in a preseason game that will affect their regular season.

Jordy Nelson – WR Green Bay Packers

Jordy Nelson injured during a preseason game against the Steelers

Jordy Nelson injured during a preseason game against the Steelers

Nelson has been one of the best wide receivers in the league since bursting on the season in 2011. He has been Aaron Rodgers favorite target in recent years accumulating over 2,800 yards and 21 touchdowns over the last 2 seasons. Nelson tore his ACL during the August 23rd preseason matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Nelson will now miss the entire 2015 season.

Maurkice Pouncey – C Pittsburgh Steelers

Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey suffered a broken ankle in the same preseason game that Jordy Nelson was lost for the season and will require surgery. Pouncey may not be lost for the season. He was placed on the short term IR. Under league rules, Pouncey can not practice for six regular season weeks and can not appear in a game for eight weeks. Pouncey is a Pro Bowl center that has anchored the Steeler offensive line since joining the league in 2010.

Brandon Gibson – WR New England Patriots

After spending sometime with the Miami Dolphins, Gibson signed on with the Patriots and had been playing great football this preseason. That progress was derailed when he tore his ACL in a preseason game against the New Orleans Saints. To replace Gibson, the Patriots have signed WR Reggie Wayne.

New Look 49ers

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With training camp just around the corner, it’s almost time for the NFL again. When the San Francisco 49ers report for training camp, there will be a lot of new faces, starting with the head coach. Jim Harbaugh left the team amid reports he was going to be fired and took the University of Michigan head coaching vacancy. Enter Jim Tomsula, former 49ers defensive line coach, now 49ers head coach. The team as a whole looks different as well.

Will Selva - Patrick Willis

Patrick Willis

On offense, longtime running back Frank Gore almost signed with the Philadelphia Eagles but eventually signed with the Indianapolis Colts. Wide receiver Michael Crabtree signed with the Raiders and guard Mike Iupati signed with the Arizona Cardinals. The 49ers did bring in wide receiver Torrey Smith from the Baltimore Ravens to play opposite of Anquan Boldin. Wide receiver Stevie Johnson lasted just 1 season with the team and signed with the San Diego Chargers following his release from San Francisco. With Gore’s departure, the 49ers signed Reggie Bush to help handle the load in the backfield with Carlos Hyde.

The defense took an even larger hit. All-Pro linebacker Patrick Willis shockingly retired at the age of 30. You can’t speak to how big of a loss Willis is to a team. Regarded as one of the best linebackers in the game, you can’t just replace him with anyone. The 49ers also lost All-Pro defensive end Justin Smith. A phenomenal player, Smith retiring wasn’t as big of a shock being that he was turning 36 by the start of the 2015 season. Smith compiled 87 career sacks but provided a tremendous amount of run stuffing efforts that don’t make the stat book. Another player that retired was linebacker Chris Borland. Borland was just 24 years old and shocked not only the organization but the league with his announcement. They have added Darnell Dockett on the line but he is coming off an ACL tear from last August and is 33 years old.

There will be many new faces in the 49ers locker room this season. It’ll be interesting to see if the 49ers can keep up in the ultra competitive NFC West. They have a great dynamic duo now in Boldin and Smith that should provide Kaepernick with deep ball and short over the middle opportunities. Having Reggie Bush available out of the backfield on 3rd downs should provide a great safety net for Kaepernick when he’s in trouble.

Tim Tebow is Back

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Tim Tebow last suited up in the NFL for the New England Patriots in 2013 during the preseason but ultimately did not make the roster. Since that time, he has done some broadcasting work for the SEC Network while working out in hopes of making an NFL comeback. It seems that time has come. Tim Tebow is signing with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Tebow will join a crowded depth chart at quarterback with Sam Bradford, Mark Sanchez, Matt Barkley, and GJ Kinne currently on the roster. While he’s no lock to make the team, it is a great opportunity for Tebow who had not been receiving much attention from NFL teams.

Will Selva - Tim TebowTebow figures to fit the Eagles quite well. It’s no secret head coach Chip Kelly likes to keep the offense moving and with that you need a mobile quarterback. While Tebow has not proven to be an excellent passer, he has proven to use his legs well. With that said, it does not look like he’s in competition for the starting role but more as a backup. They may be inclined to use him in certain packages that allow him to run the option because he runs well for a quarterback.

Simply put, for Tebow to get back to where he was in 2011 in Denver he’ll need a string of injuries and he’ll have to play well in the preseason to show he belongs in the NFL. He did not prove much during the preseason with the Patriots and that led to no one picking him up once cut. It’ll be interesting to see how Tebow Mania effects Philadelphia.

AFC East Loading Up

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Since the NFL’s 2015 free agency begun, no division has been more active than the AFC East. Between the New England Patriots, New York Jets, Buffalo Bills, and Miami Dolphins they’ve all been incredibly active trying to propel their team to the top of the division. Let’s take a look at all the moves that have taken place so far.

Will Selva - Brandon Marshall

Brandon Marshall was traded to the Jets for a 5th round draft pick

New York Jets:

CB Darrelle Revis
CB Antonio Cromartie
CB Buster Skrine
S Marcus Gilchrist
QB Ryan Fitzpatrick (traded for)
RB Bilal Powell (resigned)
LB David Harris (resigned)
WR Brandon Marshall (traded for)
G James Carpenter
G Willie Colon (resigned)
DL Stephen Bowen
OL Corey Hilliard
DL Kevin Vickerson

New England Patriots:

DL Jabaal Sheard
LB Jonathan Freeny
WR Brandon Gibson
DL Alan Branch (resigned)
TE Scott Chandler
S Devin McCourty (resigned)
LB Chris White (resigned)

Buffalo Bills:

WR Percy Harvin
DE Jarius Wynn (resigned)
QB Tyrod Taylor
WR Marcus Easley (resigned)
FB Jerome Felton
LB Keith Rivers
QB Matt Cassel (traded for)
RB Lesean McCoy (traded for)
TE Charles Clay

Will Selva - Suh

Suh lands a mega deal with the Dolphins

Miami Dolphins:

WR Kenny Stills (traded for)
DT Ndamukong Suh
TE Jordan Cameron
CB Brice McCain

This Weeks Notable NFL Cuts

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2/23/2015

Indianapolis Colts: Released DT Ricky Jean Francois

Francois, the 28 year old former 7th round pick out of LSU has been released. While never dominant, he has proven to be a contributor to both the 49ers and Colts. He may find himself work this off-season.

Arizona Cardinals: Released WR/KR Ted Ginn Jr.

Ginn Jr. has not been known much as a WR so the Cardinals let the 29 year old go in hopes of finding a new and younger kick returner. Ginn should be able to find work as a returner and number 4 WR elsewhere.

2/24/2015

New York Giants: Released DE Mathias Kiwanuka

Kiwanuka, drafted in the 1st round of the 2006 draft, has been released. The 31 year old DE/OLB has compiled 38.5 sacks during his time with the Giants. He may be looking to join a team as a reserve/pass rush specialist.

2/25/2015

New York Giants: Released RB Peyton Hillis

The Giants have not had the best of luck with running backs of late and this looks like the end of the line for Peyton Hillis in New York. Hillis, who once dawned the cover of the ever so popular Madden video game, has not had the career that he thought he would have. This could be it for his career.

Green Bay Packers: Released LB AJ Hawk

This isn’t the first time, but the Packers have released AJ Hawk. Hawk was cut and immediately re-signed back in 2011 so that the final year worth $10 million did not become guaranteed. Hawk has not been known to be a 3 down linebacker and at his advanced age, he may be looking to become a key reserve.

Detroit Lions: Released RB Reggie Bush

The Lions released the 29 year old running back after signing him to a 4 year deal in 2013. Bush ran for 1,000 yards in his first season but ran for just 297 yards this season. Bush is an asset out of the backfield catching passes and should catch on with a team relatively soon.

Baltimore Ravens: Released WR/KR Jacoby Jones

The Ravens released former Dancing With The Stars contestant Jacoby Jones. Jones has primarily been a number 3 WR with the Ravens but has proven to be a great kick returner. He should catch on with another team this year.

2/26/2015

San Diego Chargers: Released LB Jarret Johnson

The Chargers terminated the contract of LB Jarret Johnson and this comes as no surprise. The 33 year old announced his intent to retire earlier in the week. Johnson spent 9 years with the Baltimore Ravens and the last 3 years with the Chargers.

Last Weeks Notable NFL Transactions

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2/17/2015

Buffalo Bills: Released LB Keith Rivers
The former 2008 1st round pick was released following a season that saw him play in 12 games with just 16 total tackles. He has certainly underwhelmed but should catch on with his fourth NFL team.

Carolina Panthers: Released S Thomas DeCoud
DeCoud signed a 2 year deal with Carolina in 2014 but won’t see the second year on that deal. After being inserted as a starting safety for the Panthers, his lack of playmaking had him benched in December. He finished with 50 total tackles and 1 interception. At age 29, he should have a little bit left in the tank to offer another team, perhaps as a reserve.

Kansas City Chiefs: Released WRs Donnie Avery and A.J. Jenkins
The Chiefs completed the 2014 season without completing a touchdown pass to any WR. While some of that has to do with the conservative approach Alex Smith plays with at the QB position, it’s also a testament to the skill level the WRs had. The Chiefs ultimately let former 1st round pick Jenkins, who has been labeled as a bust and Donnie Avery, who has shown some flashes throughout his career go.

2/18/2015

Indianapolis Colts: Released LB Shaun Phillips
After a great 9 year career with the San Diego Chargers that saw him record 69.5 sacks, Shaun Phillips has had trouble finding consistent work. He spent 2013 with the Denver Broncos, 11 games in 2014 with the Tennessee Titans and 5 games with the Colts. Phillips, known as a edge rusher failed to record a sack in limited time with the Colts and was released. Unfortunately, this could be the end of the road for 33 year old Phillips.

Minnesota Vikings: Claimed TE Brandon Bostick on waivers from Green Bay
Many now know Brandon Bostick as the guy who botched the onside kick allowing the Seattle Seahawks to advance to the Super Bowl. Bostick was eventually cut by the Packers but has now found a new home with the divisional opponent Minnesota Vikings.

2/20/2015

Green Bay Packers: Released LB Brad Jones
Brad Jones, a 2009 seventh round pick with the Packers defied odds lasting 6 seasons and even at times starting for the Green Bay Packers. At age 28, Jones figures to have a few years left in him. He should be able to catch on with another team as a key reserve.

Broncos-Chargers Thoughts

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It’s been suggested that this incarnation of the Chargers is a team of destiny. I think that might be a reach, but I am becoming more of a believer in the mystical power that has become the “Bolo Mojo.” Their demeanor exudes a carefree mentality that’s been noticeably present during this 5 game magic carpet ride.

It’s reason enough for Broncos fans to be a tad leery on Sunday. Never mind the fact that the Chargers went to Denver last month and won only adds to the angst felt in the Mile High City. The Broncos defense has clearly showed that it has problems stopping the run, but they may get a boost from the news that Chargers running back Ryan Mathews could miss Sunday’s contest with a bum ankle.

will selva football field

Will Selva gives his thoughts on the Broncos and the Chargers.

Phillip Rivers, who’s the highest rated QB in NFL history (96.0) not to have advanced to the Super Bowl, has not made any back-breaking mistakes during their winning streak. Still, the Broncos can counteract with a prolific offense that can strike quickly and often, putting more pressure on the Chargers corners. Peyton Manning will also be armed with his full compliment of weapons, namely Wes Welker, who’s recovered fully from his concussion.

However, Manning must now do what he hasn’t done before in the playoffs in two tries: Beat the Bolts. The other stat that haunts Manning at this time of the year is this: He’s had the most one and dones than any quarterback in NFL history. It’s hard to pick against him, but the Chargers are ripe for the upset. What can you say? They’ve got that Bolo Mojo workin’ right now.

The Raiders A Tranquil Beacon Of Stability?

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The Redskins have successfully made the Raiders, yes the Raiders, the tranquil beacons of stability in the NFL. Think about that for a second. Washington is now a powder keg with head coach Mike Shanahan holding the matches, ready to light the fuse. In perhaps his final combustible decision, Shanahan has shut down his franchise quarterback Robert Griffin III for the rest of the season.

His reasoning is that RG3 has been sacked 24 times in five games and wanted him healthy for the off season. That may very well be true, but that reasoning sounds awfully flimsy. If he was really concerned about his health, then why did he have Griffin playing in the snow last Sunday against the Chiefs? Lions running back Reggie Bush got hurt just in WARM-UPS prior to the snow bowl with the Eagles. Why didn’t he shut him down then? Makes no sense.

I spoke with former GM Charlie Casserly when the news came down and he said the sack total is a bit of a misnomer if you watch game tape of Washington and KC. RG3 is running out of bounds and not necessarily absorbing vicious blows time after time. The other point Casserly made to me is that Griffin’s mechanics are now off. He’s not throwing the football like he did prior to his knee injury and that needs to be corrected. Shanahan claims that he spoke with owner Dan Snyder last week to discuss the future of the young signal caller, but it’s painfully clear, this is a power play by the head coach.

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Will Selva discusses the Raider’s current performance in the NFL.

Shanahan did not like the fact that RG3 had a cozy relationship with Snyder if reports are to be believed. It’s as if Shanahan is daring Snyder to fire him over this move. Besides, Shanahan wants to get paid the remaining 7 million of his contract. For Kirk Cousins, this is now a 3 game audition. The Redskins are rooting hard that he does well, while the Rams want him to badly flame out. Remember, the Rams hold the Redskins top pick from the mammoth RG3 trade.  Cousins could significantly increase his trade value with solid play over the final 3 regular season games.

Meanwhile, Snyder has stayed above the fray and not said a word through all of this. Good move too, he doesn’t want to be hit from all the stray debris that’s about to be strewn all over Redskins Park.