The Detroit Lions are currently enjoying a well-earned bye week after clinching the top NFC seed with their victory over the Vikings in Week 18. This break provides them with extra time to recover and prepare for the divisional round of the playoffs.
Meanwhile, across the league, teams that have had disappointing seasons are already making changes for the future. Several organizations have begun parting ways with their coaches and general managers as they focus on what lies ahead in the offseason.
One such team is the Las Vegas Raiders, who recently parted ways with head coach Antonio Pierce. On Thursday, they also announced the dismissal of GM Tom Telesco after just one season in charge.
Reports have surfaced that Tom Brady now holds more influence within the Raiders’ decision-making process. With a new general manager and head coach at the helm, the Raiders are likely entering a rebuilding phase. This shift presents an opportunity for teams like the Lions, who are in a position to contend.
The Raiders are expected to be more open to trading their top talent for draft capital. Star defensive end Maxx Crosby will certainly be a prime target, but the Raiders have several other players who could catch the Lions’ attention.
One of those players is tight end Michael Mayer, a former Notre Dame standout. After a solid rookie campaign, Mayer’s role diminished in his second season as Brock Bowers emerged as a top target. Given the situation, Mayer is likely available on the trade market.
While the Lions don’t urgently need a tight end, an upgrade to their TE2 position could be beneficial. Sam LaPorta plays nearly every snap and has been reliable, but Dan Campbell and Ben Johnson like to utilize multiple tight-end sets with LaPorta, Brock Wright, and occasionally Shane Zylstra. Adding a player with higher upside like Mayer could further elevate the Lions’ offense.
Wright wrapped up the season with 13 catches, 100 yards, and two touchdowns in 17 games, earning a 51.5 PFF grade and ranking 65th among all tight ends. Upgrading this position with someone like Mayer—another Fighting Irish product—could be a smart move for Detroit as they look to bolster their roster for a playoff run.
More news……
Kerby Joseph Faces More Setbacks to Kick Off the New Year, Joined by Two Fellow Lions
The NFL appears to be targeting Kerby Joseph in 2025. First, coaches, players, and executives denied him a spot in the Pro Bowl, costing him millions of dollars. Now, the league is imposing another fine for his actions against the 49ers last Monday.
To be fair, Joseph’s move seemed foolish in the moment. While it was a correct decision in terms of protecting his teammate, it ended up giving the 49ers a first down near the goal line, providing them with a chance to score. As a result, he was fined $7,505.
In contrast, Jauan Jennings received a higher fine of $11,817 for his actions. Sadly, Terrion Arnold was also fined $11,817, despite being justified in his actions, according to most people.
Additionally, the league penalized Brian Branch with his seventh fine of the season after an incident following a tackle on Jennings late in the game. His fine of $10,128 brings his total to $70,896. Fortunately, he has a way to recover that amount.
