Detroit Lions: 3 X-factor players for Week 7 vs. Falcons

3. T.J. Hockenson, Tight End

The second-year tight end T.J. Hockenson is quickly becoming an important if underrated cog in this Lions offense. The big man from Iowa is quickly improving in all areas of tight end play. In his rookie campaign, he showed that he was able to play an important role as a receiver and gain yardage after the catch.

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This year he has started well and is showing good signs of improvement. He displayed his receiving skills in the first three games as he totaled over 50 yards receiving in each game: and while in the last two games he has slowed down in the passing game, he has demonstrated good skills as a run blocker, offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell backed this up.

With all that being said, it is time for Hockenson to break out and announce himself. He was selected No. 8 overall in last year’s draft and going that high means he will have to have a big day at some point. This Sunday could very well be that day.

After six weeks, the Atlanta linebackers have shown no ability to cover big tight ends. Robert Tonyan had a solid outing for the Packers on the Monday night game, while Jimmy Graham was very good for the Bears against Atlanta.

While the Atlanta defense may be occupied with the bevy of Lions receivers, both on the outside and in the slot, Hockenson could find himself with room to roam, particularly if the Lions can use him more crossing routes while mixing in a little pre-snap motion for him. Get him working east to west on the field and get the big man running downhill at defensive backs.

He’ll also need to be good at blocking again to help the running backs find holes. If he does that, he could have a perfect day; it opens up even more offensive options for him and Darrell Bevell. The big man will be key if the Lions are to win.