Detroit Lions
The Lions held their first mini camp practice Monday and according to Tom Kowalski of Mlive.com, receiver Roy Williams pulled a hamstring. Injuries are never good, but according to Kowalski, it doesn’t appear to be serious. In more encouraging news for Detroit, running back Kevin Jones didn’t participate in any drills, but did run along the sidelines after having the final two screws taken out of his surgically repaired foot. The Lions are staying mum about Jones in case of a setback, but him doing any kind of running has to be a welcome site for coaches. There’s no sense making assumptions at this point, but it’s still a possibility Jones will be ready for the star of the season. One more note on the Lions, defensive tackle Cory Redding will be a no show in camp, which isn’t a surprise seeing as how he’s upset over being franchised and wants a long-term contract…from another team.
Chicago Bears
Former Northern Illinois running back Garrett Wolfe became the first 2007 draft pick to sign a contract this season after inking a four-year, $2.28 million contact. I criticized the Bears for reaching on Wolfe in the third round, but thus far he’s drawing comparisons to Falcons’ running back Warrick Dunn with his excellent vision and elusiveness, even though he’s smaller in stature. If Wolfe becomes even half of what Dunn has been on or off the field, Chicago will be more than justified for taking him in the third round.
Tampa Bay Bucs
According to the St. Petersburg Times, rookie Gaines Adams will start his career at right defensive end, which is currently occupied by Simeon Rice. The move has more to do with Adams’ playing strengths than Rice’s fate, although ’07 is shaping up to be the 33-year olds last season in Tampa. Many wonder why the Bucs don’t play Adams opposite Rice for at least a year, but there’s a good reason why they won’t. Adams was regarded as the best pure pass-rusher in the draft, but had limitations against the run while playing at Clemson. Typically, teams play their best pass rusher on the right side because that’s usually an offense’s weak side (i.e. the side the tight end doesn’t line up on). Seeing as how Adams may have issues defending the run with his slimmer frame, the right side will allow him to demonstrate his athleticism and pass-rush abilities, without having to be worried about facing double teams on a consistent basis. Either way, I’m sure the Bucs will look to bulk him up, but as of right now, Adams would probably be overmatched on the left side.
