Marvin Jones was expected to give the Detroit Lions a boost on offense, but thus far he is exceeding expectations. He may end up being the Lions top receiver going into the 2016 season.
During the 2016 offseason, the Detroit Lions were dealt a massive blow. Calvin Johnson, the best receiver in their franchise’s history, decided to retire after nine seasons in the league. After dealing with injuries late in his career and beginning to decline a bit, Johnson called it quits and left the Lions with a hole at the receiver position.
Related Story: Detroit Lions: The Bests…and the Worst in 2016
Although the team had Golden Tate, they did not have a viable counterpart for him and Tate was not a proven No. 1 receiver either. They needed to find an answer and they may have in Marvin Jones.
Jones was signed over as a free agent from the Cincinnati Bengals early in the team’s offseason. It was one general manager Bob Quinn’s first big signings as the man in charge, and Jones commanded a hefty contract. His deal was a five year pact that would pay him $40 million with $20 million guaranteed.
Aug 18, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws the ball during the first quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
It was a big gamble to take on a player who had never been more than second fiddle to A.J. Green, but so far it is looking like it is worth it.
According to MLive’s Kyle Meinke, Jones has been Matthew Stafford’s favorite target throughout camp. Developing a strong rapport with Stafford will greatly help Jones and the team’s offense. He has not just been one of the most impressive players in training camp either. His work has translated over to the playing field as well.
In limited action over his first two preseason games, Jones has caught five of his six targets and has turned them into 81 yards. His route running has been crisp and he has been a threat whenever he has been on the field. By comparison, Tate has only logged three catches for 41 yards and has looked more comfortable in the No. 2 receiver role that he occupied last year.
Jones also looks more suited to be a top option than Tate. Jones is a full two inches taller than Tate and should end up being more threatening in the red zone. He has a 10 touchdown season to his credit, and his speed and athleticism can be a major weapon for the Lions.
more NFL Spin Zone: Cowboys To Watch Preseason Week 2
Jones looks ready to make the leap in his new home. After four years in Cincinnati, he is finally ready to be the top option for a team. It looks like he should get a chance to do that to start the 2016 season.