Franchise Building 101: Part 3 of 5 Mayhew and Free Agency

Mayhew Free Agency

After putting together a great coaching staff Mayhew turned his attention the Detroit Lions’ depleted roster. There are three ways to improve a NFL roster: Free Agency, Trades, and the Draft. This article will focus on free agency.

In Year 1 the Lions were coming off a 0-16 season. Mayhew knew no free agents of worth would come to the Detroit Lions and that the only way to acquire free agents would be to grossly over pay. Mayhew then focused on the draft for major talent used FA for short term fixes. Mayhew adopted an approach similar to flinging mud on the wall and hoping something would stick (in free agency).

On offense, he signed Maurice Morris who was a decent backup RB as well as a solid locker room presence. Bryant Johnson was a WR who the Lions were hoping would finally cash in on his potential…they were wrong. Also added was Will Heller who is a good depth TE with great blocking skills and is solid on ST. Dylan Gandy who is a versatile OL backup, but not much else was another signing.

On defense, Turk McBride and Jason Hunter gave steady production. Larry Foote and Grady Jackson were one year rentals that made the run defense slightly better. Phillip Buchanon was a solid one-year starting CB.

In Year Two the Detroit Lions were coming off a 2-14 season. The Lions were ready to take the next step. Their rookie class showed promise and with that promise came increased expectations. Mayhew stated less Free Agents but more quality players would be his focus.

On offense Nate Burleson became his “eraser” for Calvin Johnson. Burleson would erase the advantage defenses gained by doubling and sometimes tripling Calvin Johnson.

On defense Kyle Vanden Bosch was signed for his ability on the field, but more for his locker room leadership. KVB would lead these young Lions and show them how to be a successful professional. Bobby Carpenter and Ashley Palmer were signed for LB depth and ST ability. Carpenter showed potential as a future starting OLB.

In Year 3, playoffs are in the Lions grasp and with that an increased ability to sign FA’s. With great word of mouth and the coaching staff showing the ability to resurrect careers…Detroit has become a desireable destination. Who could have foreseen this when Mayhew took over?

Offensive FA’s so far have included Rashard Davis and Maurice Stovall who will increase WR depth and ST ability. While RB Mike Bell and Jerome Harrison try to fill the void left by Mikel Leshoure’s season ending injury.

Eric Wright, Justin Durant, Harry Coleman, and Stephen Tulloch have erased defensive holes in the back seven. Coleman will push Spievy to be Robin to Delmas’ Batman. Eric Wright is looking to fulfill his potential at CB. Durant is hoping to finally stay healthy and fulfill his immense potential at linebacker. Tulloch is an elite MLB and will transform the front seven from good to great (and is also familiar with the head coach to boot).

With all of these players, Mayhew has shown the ability sign FA without breaking the bank. This is important since most of a team’s salary should go to retaining draft picks. Mayhew’s method is to draft talent and use FA to fill holes. MissionAccomplished.

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