Entering the second half of the season, the Detroit Lions aim to maintain their impressive 6-2 start. Apart from a few minor setbacks, the Lions have demonstrated strength across the board, thanks to excellent coaching and standout performances from their core players. However, the talk of the town centers on the immediate impact made by the 2023 rookie class.
Initially, the Lions faced criticism for selecting players in positions that many thought didn’t align with their draft value. Yet, when all was said and done and the dust settled, the Lions emerged with a remarkable haul and are already reaping the benefits as they strive for a strong playoff push.
[affiliatewidget_smgtolocal]
As we reach the midpoint of the season, it’s time to assess the performances of all the rookies thus far.
Jahmyr Gibbs
Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs celebrates his touchdown with Lions fans against the Las Vegas Raiders during the second half at Ford Field, Monday, Oct. 30, 2023.
As the season began, the tea leaves hinted at the coaches’ plans for gradually integrating Gibbs into the NFL. However, for some, it was perplexing to see that they weren’t maximizing his full potential. Even with David Montgomery leading the backfield, Gibbs managed to excel with his limited opportunities. When Montgomery suffered an injury, Gibbs was entrusted with a full workload, and he certainly showcased his skills during Monday night’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he took center stage.
If there’s one critique I have for Gibbs, it’s his pass protection. Nevertheless, I have confidence that this coaching staff is diligently working with him to improve in that aspect. With Montgomery’s return on the horizon, the Lions are poised to have a formidable two-pronged threat in the backfield, and it’s clear that Gibbs is just scratching the surface of his potential.
Grade: A-
Jack Campbell
Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell (46) celebrates a sack Atlanta Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023.
The Lions have managed to gradually introduce Campbell to the defense, even with the outstanding performances of Alex Anzalone, who is currently in the prime of his career, and the substantial progress exhibited by Derrick Barnes this season. Campbell has been utilized in various positions, ranging from the middle to the edge, showcasing his remarkable athleticism and versatility within the defense. There are days when he appears absolutely stellar, but there are also moments when his rookie limitations become evident.
One area where Campbell has room for improvement is in coverage, which has been somewhat subpar, and this aspect might detract from his overall performance. However, he has played a pivotal role in the Lions’ impressive run defense. It’s evident that we have only scratched the surface of Campbell’s potential, and there are undoubtedly more exciting developments to come.
Grade: B
Sam LaPorta
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – OCTOBER 30: Sam LaPorta #87 of the Detroit Lions scores a touchdown in the second quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Ford Field on October 30, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)
Throughout training camp, LaPorta made a lot of noise about his anticipated impact and involvement with the offense. The transition to the regular season has been nothing short of spectacular. He has proven to be everything the Lions hoped for and more, coming from his background as a former Hawkeye tight end. LaPorta has not only shattered Lions’ tight end records but has also been setting new NFL tight end records regularly.
His contributions extend beyond just the receiving game; his blocking skills have become a significant asset that has exceeded expectations and has opened up the Lions’ offense in unexpected ways. He epitomizes the all-around tight end that every team aspires to have, and at this moment, one could argue that he ranks among the Lions’ most valuable offensive assets.
Grade: A+
Brian Branch
Lions safety Brian Branch catches an interception from Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes during the second half of the Lions’ 21-20 win on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, in Kansas City, Missouri.
I acknowledge that this has been mentioned before, but I’ll pose the question again: How did Branch slip into the second round of the draft? The Lions are undoubtedly delighted about it because he has emerged as a driving force for their defense from day one. He left a mark right from the start when he intercepted Patrick Mahomes and returned it for a touchdown. While he has encountered a few injuries and minor setbacks, which are common for rookies, Branch’s raw talent shines through in his hard-hitting style and superior instincts. He seems well-positioned to establish himself as a long-term nickel corner for the Lions in the foreseeable future.
Grade: B+
Hendon Hooker
Detroit Lions quarterback Hendon Hooker passes after Rookie Minicamp Saturday, May 13, 2023.
As Hooker continues his recovery from an ACL injury, the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain. It’s highly unlikely we’ll see him on the field this season, barring a late-season comeback. Additionally, given Jared Goff’s current performance, there is absolutely no need to rush Hooker back into action.
Grade: Incomplete
Brodric Martin
Detroit Lions defensive lineman Martin Brodric talks to reporters after Rookie Minicamp Saturday, May 13, 2023.
From the outset, there was a sense that Martin’s progression throughout the season would likely yield minimal production. He has remained a healthy scratch throughout the entire season, except for the Raiders game, in which he saw only eleven snaps. The Lions have shown interest in what Martin can offer, especially considering his high draft position, and there are evident skills to develop. However, Martin’s journey to adapt to the pace of the NFL appears to be more of a marathon than a sprint.
Grade: D
Colby Sorsdal
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 24: Colby Sorsdal #75 of the Detroit Lions looks on prior to a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Ford Field on September 24, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images)
We didn’t anticipate seeing much of Sorsdal this season, but due to injuries, he has been thrust into the lineup and has fared quite well in the process. He has demonstrated versatility by playing both tackle and guard, making him a valuable chess piece for spot starts along the offensive line. Naturally, there are still some areas to refine, particularly when transitioning from William & Mary to the NFL. However, his performance thus far has exceeded expectations.
Grade: C
Antoine Green
Aug 25, 2023; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Antoine Green (80) reacts to his touchdown reception during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
One advantage Green has is his consistent presence on the roster throughout the season. However, he faces tough competition with numerous players ahead of him for targets and playing time. As a seventh-round pick, big plays weren’t the immediate expectation as they adapt to the NFL. He represents the type of big-bodied receiver the Lions aim to develop in the long run.
Unfortunately for Green, the Lions also acquired Donovan Peoples-Jones, who is essentially a mirror image of him, creating a more challenging path for Green to secure playing time.
Grade: D+