Detroit Lions: 5 offseason needs in 2019

By Jon Dove | Feb 25, 2019

DETROIT, MI - SEPTEMBER 10: Detroit Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (94) kneels during an injury timeout during a regular season game between the New York Jets and the Detroit Lions on September 10, 2018 at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MI – AUGUST 30, 2018: Tight end Luke Willson #82 of the Detroit Lions on the field prior to a preseason game against the Cleveland Browns on August 30, 2018 at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. Cleveland won 35-16. (Photo by: 2018 Nick Cammett/Diamond Images/Getty Images) /

Tight End

When the Detroit Lions drafted Eric Ebron in 2014 they thought they were finding a long-term piece to the puzzle. However, after a few frustrating seasons the Lions cut him loose only to see him have a solid 2018 season with the Indianapolis Colts.

The Lions are now back at square one with last year’s top tight ends, Luke Willson and Levine Toilolo, set to be free agents.

This year’s free agent market doesn’t feature any top-flight tight ends. The inconsistent Jared Cook is the biggest name available. If the Lions wanted to look at a younger option, Jesse James is a name to consider.

Detroit may be better served to address this need via the draft. In fact, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. recently released a mock draft with the Lions taking at tight end at pick No. 8.

Iowa’s T.J. Hockenson is widely seen as the top player at the position in the class. He is a well-rounded player who can contribute as both a blocker and pass-catcher. He’s the type of tight end worthy of a top-10 pick.

However, it’s possible that the Lions are gun-shy after their experience with Ebron. Hockenson’s teammate Noah Fant could be a fit in the second or third round.

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