We're already well aware here in the Motor City that the Detroit Lions don't exactly receive much praise from the national media.
A mere two players made the cut on ESPN's latest edition of their Top 100 Players in the National Football League heading into the 2020 campaign. And it's not really a surprise as to who they are.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Kenny Golladay were the only two Lions, clocking in at No. 52 and No. 76, respectively.
The long-time lions quarterback was playing at an MVP level last season before a lingering back injury forced him to miss the remainder of the 2019 campaign. As writer Michael Rothstein puts it, another year in offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell's offense is setting him up for “a big year”:
“Darrell Bevell’s offense, which allows Stafford to use his arm strength for downfield throws, and Stafford’s better decision-making, honed from his years with Jim Caldwell, set the veteran QB up perfectly for a big year.”
Meanwhile, Golladay led the NFL in TD receptions last season, and the stage is set for the 4th year receiver to come into his own this year:
“Thirty-four percent of Golladay’s receptions gained 20-plus yards in 2019, the best rate among 71 players who recorded 50-plus catches.”
Lions fans, is this an accurate listing, or do you believe that ESPN should have included more players from Detroit on their list?
– – Quotes via ESPN Staff Link – –
