Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford needs better protection in 2017
Training camp had barely gotten underway before the Detroit Lions offensive line was already crumbling.
The Detroit Lions have officially started training camp. Saturday, July 29 marked the day Matthew Stafford entered the facilities a new man. Not only did Stafford’s demeanor change, but he’s healthy and his nuisance of a finger seemed to be 100 percent healed.
But the real question is, how do the Lions keep Stafford healthy this season? Instantly, we would assume Taylor Decker is the answer after the amazing rookie season he had. But that’s not going to work after a shoulder injury occurred last month, which will keep him out for almost half of the season. So who’s left?
The Lions signed Greg Robinson after a trade with the Los Angeles Rams. Unfortunately, Robinson is not a huge asset, as he’s not been able to live up to his 2014 draft expectations. Not to mention, he was isted on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list on Saturday.
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Then there’s backup tackle Corey Robinson, even though he usually needs a backup with his injury history. In 2015, he was dealing with an ankle injury. In 2016, he was questionable for several games before landing himself on injured reserve for a foot injury. He did undergo foot surgery in late spring, which resulted in missed organized team activities.
Who’s left for the Lions? Cyrus Kouandjio, who they acquired after he was waived by the Buffalo Bills, and Cornelius Lucas. As if things couldn’t get any worse for the Lions, Brandon Thomas was appeared on the PUP list Saturday as well.
On a brighter note, Stafford is ready to rock. Although he’s being hush hush about his offseason conditioning, he did have some sort of private quarterback coaching. Although he didn’t reveal any names, rumors believe it is the same coach that conditioned Matt Ryan.
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Unfortunately, you’re only as good as your team! Stafford could hire 1,000 coaches to prepare him for his future, but if the Lions entire offensive line is injured or suspended, what good will Stafford’s improvement do?