The Detroit Lions are experimenting with a new role for Jackson Meeks, and it could give the second-year player a better chance to stick on the roster.
Dan Campbell said Detroit is moving Meeks toward a hybrid position that blends tight end, H-back and big-slot responsibilities. The idea is to take advantage of Meeks’ size and receiving ability while testing whether he can handle the physical work required closer to the line of scrimmage.
“That’s what we want to find out. We want to find out if there’s something in there where he can be this hybrid H-back, tight end, big slot or big skill player,” Campbell said.
Lions Want to Showcase Meeks’ Strengths
Meeks entered the league as a wide receiver, but his 6-foot-2, 235-pound frame gives Detroit options that do not exist with most players at the position.
“We felt like his skill set can be showcased better in this role and at this position by asking him to do things that he does well,” Campbell said.
The move could allow Meeks to work against linebackers and safeties, contribute as a blocker and give Jared Goff another large target in the middle of the field.
It also creates a path toward a roster spot in a crowded receiving room.
Blocking Will Be the Biggest Test
The new position will require more than catching passes.
“He’s going to have to do some dirty work. There’s no way around it in training camp, with the reps and in preseason games,” Campbell said. “But there are things we’ll ask him to do to see if he can do them.”
That dirty work will likely include blocking defensive ends, linebackers and defensive backs in space.
Meeks does not need to become a traditional in-line tight end. He does need to prove he can be trusted when Detroit runs the football or asks him to protect the edge.
A Better Opportunity to Make the Roster
Campbell believes the change gives Meeks a clearer way to help the Lions.
“We felt like this gives him the best opportunity to be the type of player he can be, while also helping us see if there is something there. So, yes, absolutely.”
Versatility often decides the final few roster spots.
A player who can line up at receiver, H-back, tight end and on special teams gives the coaching staff more flexibility on game day. Meeks now has an opportunity to become that kind of piece.
Bottom Line
Jackson Meeks is no longer competing as only a traditional wide receiver.
The Lions are testing him as a hybrid offensive weapon who can catch passes, block and line up in several spots. The experiment makes sense given his size and skill set.
Now Meeks must prove he can handle the physical side of the role.
