Detroit Lions: Reunion with Gosder Cherilus in the works?

The Detroit Lions need consistency when it comes to their offensive line, specifically at right tackle. For the last few years due to injuries at the position, they haven’t been able to have an anchor to hold that part of their offensive line down for a while now.

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Last year’s starter in LaAdrian Waddle had off season knee surgery as there is no guarantee he’ll be ready come Week 1 against the San Diego Chargers. After Waddle, the Lions don’t have many quality options that can step right in and get the job done Is a possible reunion with former 2008 first-round draft pick Gosder Cherilus possibly in the works?

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It’s no secret that once Cherilus was released by the Indianapolis Colts, the Lions would be interested to see if he can finally be a reliable option on their offensive line like he use to be back during his time on the team. At the current moment as per Josh Katzenstein of the Detroit News, he’s already visited the Buffalo Bills and is set to visit with the Lions this week.

After he visits with the team that originally drafted him, he will decide between both teams which makes the most sense to play with heading into the future. It truly makes sense to have the Lions bring him back since he’s easily an upgrade over Waddle, Cornelius Lucas and Corey Robinson.

The Lions need to make sure they bolster their offensive line if they plan to continue making a push in the NFC North. In a tough division featuring the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers, they need to make sure Matthew Stafford is upright when going up against their respective defenses.

While Cherilus also had off season knee surgery, he’s been rehabbing well and is healthy as per his agent. He started every game in 2012 and 2013 before missing three games last season due to being placed on season-ending injury reserve. He should easily be able to pick up where he left off without being bothered anymore by his knee issues.

Nov 24, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Indianapolis Colts offensive tackle

Gosder Cherilus

(78) against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals defeated the Colts 40-11. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Considering that the Lions had to deploy three different starters at right tackle the past two years, it makes sense to bring Cherilus in to solidify the position once and for all. The Colts released Cherilus due to wanting him to restructure his contract to be more salary cap friendly for the team. When he refused, he was cut by the team. The Lions have about $2.7 million left to play with when it comes to their salary cap as it might not be enough for Cherilus but perhaps a respectable deal could make sense for both sides.

With his proven veteran experience of playing seven years in the NFL, Cherilus can be exactly what the Lions need to not have to worry about right tackle as much heading into the upcoming season as they did in past years. He’d be familiar with their offensive system already and can play at a high level again.

Overall, a reunion with Cherilus could definitely be in the works if all goes well with his Lions’ visit this week. He could be acquired for the right amount of money and length since he’d be coming back to his old stomping grounds. One thing is for sure, the Lions could absolutely use his skill-set and have him work wonders for their pass protection.

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