Over the next several months, we’ll see the Detroit Lions ironing out their roster on a regular basis. Whether it be cutting offensive lineman or confirming a seventh round pick wide receiver to their 53-man roster. Whatever the case may be, the Lions roster has a lot of potential. After looking over the roster these last few days, here are three players that could be surprising contributors for the 2023 season.
WR Kalif Raymond
Believe it or not but Kalif Raymond was ranked 3rd on the team for receptions last season. With 47 receptions for 616 yards, Raymond has put together back-to-back seasons of solid production. With wide receiver Jameson Williams suspended for the first six weeks of the season, the Lions could lean on Raymond as the teams 2nd or 3rd receiver.
When watching Raymond, you can see that he can be used in a variety of ways. He can run vertically down the field and has shown that he can track the football or run past the opposition. Meanwhile, he’s effective in the short and intermediate areas of the field. With the experience that Raymond has in this Lions offense, it wouldn’t be surprising if he gets the nod over players such as Antoine Green, Trinity Benson and other receivers trying to make the roster. There’s potential for Raymond to flirt with 50 receptions for a third consecutive season for the Lions.
TE Sam LaPorta
This one might not be as surprising, but Sam LaPorta could be incredibly productive as a rookie for the Lions. He has the ability to run after-the-catch on a consistent basis and can create separation at ease with his route running ability. LaPorta is a fluid athlete that should easily get the nod as the starting tight end in this offense. I could see him ending up with 50 receptions for over 500 yards this season.
OL Colby Sorsdal
As we’ve seen from the Lions in the past, they like to bring on an additional offensive lineman as a tight end to block. With some uncertainty surrounding Halapoulivaati Vaitai at right guard, we could easily see scenarios where Graham Glasgow or Colby Sorsdal play there. Meanwhile, we could also see Sorsdal used as a tight end or a swing tackle.
When watching Sorsdal, you’ll see that he can play too high or lean too far forward but he’s athletic with good lateral quickness to reach block and pull. There’s potential for Sorsdal to play more than expected as a rookie. While that could be bad due to potential injuries or it’s being hopeful that he catches on quickly as the coaching staff carves out a role for him up front.
