Detroit Lions: Eric Decker is the missing piece in the 2017 offense
Eric Decker has exactly what the Detroit Lions need on their depth chart.
The Detroit Lions have officially started their minicamps. It has been an impressive two months between the draft, OTAs and now minicamp. The Lions defense is showing a ton of improvements and the offense is looking healthy. What would be one thing that the Lions could add that would make them a true Super Bowl contender? Adding Eric Decker to the scheme.
After the New York Jets publicly announced they would release Decker if no trade options were available, the Jets officially parted ways with their star receiver on Monday. Decker’s trade value decreased after a season ending shoulder and hip surgery, and now he is on the market for a new home.
Picture Marvin Jones on one sideline and Decker on another. Not to mention Golden Tate in the slot and Eric Ebron in the mix. That depth chart sounds too exciting to not entertain. It would also mean that rookie Kenny Golladay would have three top NFL receivers to learn and grow with.
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Decker will add a ton of versatility to the team. He excels in the slot and outside, which would take some pressure off both Jones and Tate. Decker is combative downfield as he releases himself from coverage and re-routes. This is something Jones lacks.
Although nobody wants to think about a Jones or Tate injury, it’s also a possibility. Do the Lions have an option if one of their star receivers goes down? No. Sure, Golladay looked good during OTAs, but that doesn’t mean he is NFL ready, especially to start.
When Decker parted ways with the Jets, he also left his almost $18 million contract for the next two years. That should be music to the Lions ears. If they play their cards right, they could sign one of the leagues most talented receivers without exceeding their cap space.
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Since being released, Decker has met with the Tennessee Titans and left their facility without a contract. The Baltimore Ravens are showing interest even after signing Jeremy Maclin. It’s time for the Lions to step up to the plate and secure a visit with Decker. Adding him to the 2017 depth chart would be of the best moves heading into training camp.