Unfortunately, it is looking more and more like the 2020 season will not end up the way the Detroit Lions had hoped it would as they are currently 3-5 and on the outside looking in when it comes to the NFL Playoffs.
That of course means it’s never too early to start looking towards 2021 and what the Lions roster could look like.
Let’s start with 5 current starters who will not be back in 2021.
Marvin Jones Jr.
http://gty.im/589710910
I have been saying since last season that Marvin Jones Jr.’s days as a Lions receiver are limited and now that he is in the final year of his current contract, that has never been more true. Chances are that Jones Jr. will demand a solid contract, as it may be his last in the NFL, and the Lions will not be willing to pay up. That being said, if he is willing to sign a 1-year deal, he could be an option as the Lions are going to need wide receivers in the worst way in 2021.
Kenny Golladay
http://gty.im/1172255370
Prior to the start of the 2020 season, everybody and their brother was reporting that it was just a matter of time before Kenny Golladay signed a contract extension with the Lions. Personally, I have always doubted that a deal will get done because of the amount of money Golladay will demand. Paying big money for a wide receiver, in my opinion, is a big mistake and I really think Bob Quinn allows Golladay to walk when the season ends.
Everson Griffen
http://gty.im/1285156816
This one is simple. If Griffen is willing to sign a 1-year deal with the Lions for the 2021 season, the Lions should bite. If not? Well, it will like we never met.
Duron Harmon
http://gty.im/1282578469
Duron Harmon was brought to the Detroit Lions to make plays and other than a couple of interceptions, he has failed to make the impact we hoped for. Is Harmon awful? No. Is he good enough to get a multi-year deal with the Lions? Nope.
Matt Prater
http://gty.im/1278834581
I hate that I am saying this but Matt Prater has 8 games remaining with the Detroit Lions. Prater is getting up there in age and though he still has a strong leg, his accuracy in 2020 has been awful. Unless Prater can turn things around in the second half of the season, the Lions will be looking for a new kicker for 2021.
