Final OTA notes from the Detroit Lions: Young players aim to leave an impact
The Detroit Lions showcased their young players during the final OTA session of the offseason on Tuesday. Initially scheduled for an open practice on Monday, the session was postponed due to a violation of offseason rules, shifting it to Tuesday.
Only young players participated in the final practice week, allowing them to receive more focused coaching. The practice was brief, leading to fewer observations.
- Attendance
The final OTAs are often attended by rookies seeking extra practice, alongside some older players looking for additional reps. The attendees included:
– **QB Hendon Hooker**
– **RB Sione Vaki**
– **WR Jalon Calhoun**
– **WR Isaiah Williams**
– **WR Kaden Davis**
– TE Parker Hesse
– TE Sean McKeon
– OT Giovanni Manu
– OT Colby Sorsdal
– OT Connor Galvin
– G/C Bryan Hudson
– G/C Duke Clemens
– C Kingsley Eguakun
– G Matt Farniok
– EDGE James Houston
– EDGE Mitchell Agude
– EDGE Nate Lynn
– EDGE Mathieu Betts
– EDGE Isaac Ukwu
– DT Chris Smith
– DT Mekhi Wingo
– DT Brodric Martin
– LB Ben Niemann
– **LB DaRon Gilbert**
– **CB Terrion Arnold**
– **CB Ennis Rakestraw**
– **DB Morice Norris**
– **S Brandon Joseph**
– **S Loren Strickland**
– **S Chelen Garnes**
– S Kerby Joseph
– K Michael Badgley
– **K James Turner**
– P Jack Fox
– LS Scott Daly
– **LS Hogan Hatten**
Notable players included James Houston, Kerby Joseph (who participated in team work for the first time this offseason), and newly signed linebacker Ben Niemann.
Heavy Special Teams Day
With Monday’s practice forfeited, the Lions combined offense/defense and special teams drills on Tuesday. Special teams work is crucial for young players aiming to secure roster spots. Kaden Davis showed potential as a punt returner, despite the likely return of Kalif Raymond in 2024. Coach Antwaan Randle El praised Davis for quickly adapting to the offense and making plays on the field.
Sione Vaki Impresses
Sione Vaki, the sole running back present, stood out in short team sessions. He executed a wheel route against linebacker DaRon Gilbert for a significant gain during 7-on-7s, and a crossing route beating linebacker Ben Niemann for about 10 yards during 11-on-11s. Vaki has been impressive throughout the spring, and with improvements in timing and pass protection, he could earn a small role on offense.
Hendon Hooker’s Performance
Hendon Hooker, the only quarterback at practice, had a decent day. He displayed excellent touch on a wheel route to Vaki and a fastball to tight end Sean McKeon on a 20-yard post route. However, he faced challenges in processing plays, taking two sacks during the 11-on-11s.
Rookie Mistake
Rookie tackle Giovanni Manu made a critical error during a simulated 11-on-11 drive, causing a false start on a fourth-and-1 play. Despite the mistake, offensive line coach Hank Fraley was impressed with Manu’s progress and coachability this spring.