Teez Tabor came into the Detroit Lions organization as a second-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Thus far, he has not been a contributing factor to Detroit’s on-field product.
Per NFL’s stat tracker, Tabor has 17 total tackles through 15 games played (3 started). His lack of speed in man-to-man coverage has seemingly made him a liability at his position. Pro Football Focus has him ranked dead last on the defensive side of the ball for the Lions. Through all of this, Detroit’s coaching staff continues to have faith in Tabor’s development.
Justin Rogers of The Detroit News quoted head coach Matt Patricia and defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni praising the cornerback. Patricia took time to remind reports that Detroit’s defense still needs time to grow into their new scheme. Patricia said of Tabor, “He’s progressing, kind of like the rest of the group back there.” Expanding his statement regarding the team, Patricia stated, “We’re just at the start of this thing and we’ve got a nice stretch in front of us where we’ve got to make some improvements as we go forward, collectively, as a team and as a unit and as a back end.”
“He’s progressing, kind of like the rest of the group back there.” – Matt Patricia
Patricia’s right hand man, defensive coordinator Paul Pasqualoni, painted a bright picture of Tabor’s preparation and work ethic. “He prepares extremely well. He understands the process of getting ready to play an NFL game. We’re excited about his development. He’s working. He’s working to get better like everyone else. We’re very happy we have him.”
“He understands the process of getting ready to play an NFL game. We’re excited about his development.” – Paul Pasqualoni
Lions fans might see more of Tabor on the special teams and defensive side of the ball in coming weeks. This week, Detroit placed All-Pro punt returner, CB Jamal Agnew, on the reserve-injured list due to a left knee injury. It’s not too far-fetched to consider Tabor rotating in more frequently on defense and filling in as a spot punt returner.
Nation, what is your take on Teez Tabor’s career thus far? Where do you see him being best utilized for Detroit?
