News

Tim Twentyman:
The beat writers had a sit down with Lions GM Martin Mayhew last week so there's a lot to talk about.
11:57

Comment From Caleb
It's clear we need a new corner or two. Who are we looking at?
11:57

Comment From Kyle G
Should the Lions draft a linebacker or a DB in the first round of the draft?
11:57

Comment From Cynthia
Any hope for keeping most of our players?
12:00

Tim Twentyman:
I think there will be a new corner or two competing for a job in the summer, Caleb. That could be via the draft or free agency. I don't see a big name guy like Grimes being signed. I think the Lions like Houston and Wright and have a lot of confidence in them when they're healthy.
12:00

Comment From D Man
Tim: Mario Williams and Cliff Avril are free agents. Who would you rather have?
12:00

Comment From Ray
The more I look at things, is it really possible to resign Avril, Tulloch, and and any other FA's, with Matt, CJ, and Suh eating up 50% of our 2012 cap?! Just doesn't seem possible.
12:01

Tim Twentyman:
I think the Lions should draft the best possible player at a position of need, Kyle. I'd throw S and OL in the mix, too.
12:02

Tim Twentyman:
The Lions will keep most of their players, Cynthia. Avril, Tulloch, Wright are only big free agents
12:03

Comment From D Man
Tim: Who is the weak link in the linebacking corp? Seems to be Levy. What do you think?
12:03

Tim Twentyman:
Seeing how Williams was transitioned to linebacker in the 3-4, I think I like Avril, D Man. Williams is great and can still play DE, but I think Cliff is really coming into his own.
12:03

Comment From Bryan
The defensive backs needs a bit of depth...What are the Lions looking at? Getting free agents of known players or taking their luck at drafting a quality DB.. Or a combo of the two?
12:04

Tim Twentyman:
There are a lot of factors that can go into that, Ray. CJ could sign an extension and lower his cap number. Other guys could restructure their deals like Vanden Bosch and Stafford did last year. There is room but it's going to be tight.
12:05

Comment From Kelly
What is the progress on Mickel LaShoures recovery?
12:05

Comment From D Man
Tim: who is your early prediction to be a cap casualty player? Logan, Burleson, Scheffler?
12:05

Tim Twentyman:
I think right now it's Levy. But if you're calling him a weak link I think you're in good position at linebacker. He had an up-and-down year but I still think he's solid. He's only in his third year.
12:06

Tim Twentyman:
I think a combo of both, Bryan. That's been Mayhew's style since taking over. There always seems to be a good mix of young and veteran talent at each position.
12:07

Tim Twentyman:
Mikel is right on schedule, Kelly. He wouldn't be able to practice tomorrow, but Mayhew said he should be ready by offseason workouts in a few months
12:08

Comment From Greg
I think the Lions should use Logan like the Saints use sprolls ,He would be great on draws,sceens,and slants.ect.....what do you think?
12:08

Comment From Kevin Nabors
What r the chances the lions target an o lineman through fa, like Carl Nicks from NO?
12:08

Tim Twentyman:
That's tough D Man, you could throw Hanson in there too. It could be Avril if he's asking for a Charles Johnson type deal ($72 million).
12:08

Comment From Warren
The talk is we're going to fortify our OL... are there any particular prospects. Also do you think the Admin will hold true to this in the Draft?
12:09

Tim Twentyman:
That's what they have Jahvid Best for, Greg. They really think he can be that Sproles type player when Leshoure is healthy and taking some of the load.
12:09

Comment From Kenny
Giants were robbed on a fumble play what rules changes do you see being implemented where teams don't have to burn challenges maybe a system like the NHL has where near everything is being monitored? Mock drafts come out at 5:00 pm today on NFL Network do you have a mock draft Tim? Really love your stuff and is there anyway they can get rid of Mike Valenti on the Lions report? He is horrible!
12:10

Comment From Guest
Do you think the Lions will look at Vontaze Burfict OLB ASU???even with the wild side
12:10

Comment From Antwane
I hear the Lions may not have a ton of money after having to deal with Calvin Johnson new contract and Stafford. If the Lions had to trade Johnson what do u think will be their asking price?
12:11

Tim Twentyman:
Mayhew said the O-Line needs to get younger. It currently has three starters over 30. Lions not sure what they have in Fox because of injuries and other young players are projects beside Hilliard. I think the Lions get younger up there via the draft or free agency
12:12

Comment From InsertCleverLionsName
I was watching the Patriots game, and they were using their TE Hernandez in certain running situations. With us not using the FB position, any chance the Lions could adopt something like this?
12:13

Tim Twentyman:
NFL.com just released some mock draft, Kenny. I do see a few rule changes. I could see replay being expanded to include potential scoring plays. Be nice to Mike.
12:13

Comment From Greg
What do you think the problem with all the mis tackles this year? Is it coaching or the players or both ?
12:13

Comment From Bward
Whats the chances welet cliff go in FA? is he worth charles johnson money? or should we draft/willie"big fishing" Young/ LoJack it?
12:14

Tim Twentyman:
I think everyone is in play at this point, Guest. The Lions are in the process of evaluating all these players and formulating grades. We still have combine and workouts so there's a long ways to go yet.
12:14

Comment From Mitch Germaine
During our draft do feel its more important to beef up our O line or get new CB's ?
12:14

Comment From D Man
Tim: How does the team feel about Spivey? Seems like he got beaten like an NHL backup goalie on a regular basis the last 8 games. Do they think he has the goods?
12:15

Tim Twentyman:
I don't think there's any way the Lions trade Calvin, Antwane. They'll get a deal done and if they don't he's signed through next year and then the franchise tag is available. He's not going anywhere.
12:17

Tim Twentyman:
They did a little of that in training camp with Will Heller. They quickly became a passing team because of injuries, though. It's in the arsenal but seldom used.
12:18

Tim Twentyman:
I think the miss tackles were only an issue late in the season. I asked Levy about it after the Saints game and he really didn't have an answer. Just sloppy undisciplined play. The coaches put guys in the right spot, it's up to them to make the play.
12:20

Tim Twentyman:
I think you have to ask yourself if you can get Cliff's production (11 sacks, 6 forced fumbles) from other guys like Young and LoJack and anyone else they might bring in. If you think you can, then Cliff is expendable. I thought the Johnson deal was a bad deal and I doubt the Lions would pay that much. They'll offer him a good log-term deal but it won't break the bank.
12:20

Comment From Dave
besides resigning some key players what do you think the main goal as far as additions will be in free agency
12:20

Comment From LionFanInEugene
I've read a couple of early reports that we are going after Lamichael James. I'm not putting any stock into this, but I'd love to see him in a Lions uni. Have you heard anything to this effect?
12:21

Comment From Dennis
what will the role be for kevin smith with the return of best?
12:21

Comment From Bobby
Who are some top FA DB'S?
12:22

Tim Twentyman:
If two guys were rated the same I'd chose O-line. The game is won upfront and protecting the team's best asset (Stafford) and helping to bolster the league's 29th ranked rushing attack would be nice. I don't think our CB's are as bad as other people think.
12:23

Tim Twentyman:
Spievey was dealing with a knee injury the last half of the season but I think he was up and down even when healthy. This is only the second year playing safety so it's tough to tell how good he could be. I think if there's a faster option with some better cover skills the Lions jump all over it.
12:24

Comment From Becca
I just want to know when you guys are going to start selling Pettigrew jerseys? He is only one of the best tight ends in the NFL.
12:24

Tim Twentyman:
I think the key additions will be upfront on O-line, Dave. They need to get younger and more talented there.
12:24

Comment From Mark
Why do the Lions always seem to be scared of grabbing a Corner in the draft? Only way this team is going to get to the next level...I feel....is to get the oppositions top receiver locked down.
12:25

Tim Twentyman:
I have not heard anything on the LaMichael James front. If Best comes back healthy then you essentially have the same player. I'd take my chances on Best and try to find guys that can help in more pressing areas.
12:26

Tim Twentyman:
Don;t forget the return of Leshoure, too, Dennis. I think if Smith is asked back it would be for depth and the third running back spot.
12:27

Comment From Warren
I'm sorry to do this but... TRADE JOHNSON!??!?! Anyways my question is should Logan get the chop... who doyou think would take over Special teams returns?
12:27

Comment From Jack
Do you think the Lions will add a new WR during the draft or free agency to help to double coverage away from Calvin?
12:27

Tim Twentyman:
Top free agent DB's are Brent Grimes, Corteland Finnegan, Carlos Rogers and Brandon Carr to name a few
12:27

Comment From Matthew
What about our RB's1? They have all been hurt! How are we going to get healthyer the F.A. or the Draft?
12:28

Tim Twentyman:
The NFL is switching from Reebok to Nike next season so the Lions should have a bigger selection next year, Becca.
12:29

Comment From Chris N
Chances we get rid of gunther cunninham? We have good players on D but we gave up record numbers to a backup QB
12:29

Comment From Mike
why didnt we fire cunningham we had a pretty bad defense and we really blitzed to pressure the qb and make the db's jobs easier in my mind we need to find a better all around DC and we'd be set
12:29

Comment From John
Do you think Gunther Cunningham's career with the Lions will be ending soon?
12:29

Tim Twentyman:
They tried to get Patrick Peterson last year. They have drafted corners with little success. It is so hit-or-miss with corners, probably more than any position on the field.
12:29

Comment From AJ
Are you happy or dissapointed with the Gunther Cunningham resigning?
12:31

Tim Twentyman:
I like Logan, personally. I think he can wear a lot of hats, Warren. Returners are easy to find, though. Titus could do it and so could Joique Bell. There are a lot of guys that could do it but I don't think they'd do it as well as Logan.
12:32

Tim Twentyman:
I think they addressed that with Titus Young last year, Jack. I like the group they have now with Johnson, Young and Burleson, who are all under contract for next season.
12:33

Comment From Chris
Assuming Jahvid Best comes back, do you think that he fills the role of "Power RB"? The Lions passing game is outstanding, but could definitely use a power RB to be able to setup the play-action.
12:33

Comment From Blue
Does Mayhew think the running production can be solved with just a back - Leshoure coming in, or is it more a function of the offensive lines run blocking skills? I'm not sold that just a running back will equate to running productivity.
12:33

Comment From Ryan
Describe what Leshoure's role would be like in the Lions' backfield
12:33

Tim Twentyman:
Leshoure and Best are on schedule with rehab and Lions are expecting them back, Matthew. Let's not forget this was the fourth highest scoring offense in the league this year.
12:37

Comment From Ryan
How big of a deal do you think it is to replace Levy? In my opinion he's really weakening our linebacker core
12:37

Comment From TriggaTrey
Is Levy good enough to keep his starting job or is he going to lose it this off season to a rookie or FA?
12:37

Tim Twentyman:
No love for Gunther, man. He was re-signed and will be on the sideline next year. Let's not forget this was the No. 9 ranked defense heading into Thanksgiving. Then they lost Delmas, Houston and Suh. Delmas and Houston were never the same the rest of the year. That's tough losing your starting safety and corner. I'm not making excuses for how bad they played the last few weeks of the season, but at some point the blame has to fall on the players. Gunther didn't coach them any different the second half of the season.
12:37

Comment From Ryan
How do you feel personally about Levy and if he has any impact on the game?
12:37

Comment From roguenator
DEANDRE LEVY, WAS TERRIBLE THIS YEAR HE WAS OUT OF POSITION SO MUCH IS THIS LACK OF ABILITY, OR LACK OF SMARTS
12:38

Tim Twentyman:
I like the continuity of having the same coordinators for a fourth year, AJ
12:38

Tim Twentyman:
That's why they drafted Leshoure for that power RB role, Chris.
12:40

Comment From mojo9691
Will #4 Jason Hanson be back for season number 21?
12:40

Comment From Jack
Will Ndamukong Suh be a bigger impact next season?
12:40

Tim Twentyman:
Leshoure is more than just a power back, Ryan. He was a std before he got hurt. He's got good speed and a burst and is terrific catching the ball out the backfield and in protection. Before he got hurt, I saw him getting 60 to 70 percent of the snaps. He was that good.
12:41

Comment From DWW
Just want to congratulate the Lions on a great season, 2012 should be a great year also. Do yo think they will bring Kevin Smith back next season?
12:41

Comment From Barry J.
Will you keep us updated about the major awards are 'Never Say Die' quarterback receives?
12:41

Comment From MileHighNovaFan
Did Suhs season suffer bc of williams lack of production , do we see more of a fairley/suh combo?
12:42

Tim Twentyman:
I think Levy is solid. Not great, but solid. He didn't have the impact he did in the middle last year but that's not his role anymore. He's a solid OLB who will likely get challenged in camp. He'd also be a great No. 4 being able to play all three positions.
12:43

Tim Twentyman:
Jason Hanson wants to be back, mojo. He'll have to earn his spot, though. Gone are the days of him not being challenged. Hanson has a $3 million cap hit next year so he'll have to be good in camp
12:46

Tim Twentyman:
I think Suh had an impact this year, Jack and MileHighNova, but he didn't have the splash plays. There were no interceptions or touchdowns or fumble recoveries. I think defense schemed against him and it'll be the Lions' job to get him in better opportunities to make plays next year. I think Fairley's role continues to grow next season. We all saw how good he can be when healthy. I think we do see more of Suh and Fairle but don't sleep on the season Corey had. He was steady.
12:46

Comment From Lee
What are the chances Philadelphia trades one of their two stud CB's and the Lions jump in on it?
12:46

Comment From D Man
Tim: The fact that the Lions became a "passing team" didn't hurt them because (a) they used short passes as runs and (b) teams couldn't stop even the middle to long passes. What hurt them was negative plays/dumb penalties, such as the first drive of the second half against the Saints. After the Saints scored on their first possession, the Lions ended up in a 3-19 due to a dumb penalty and couldn't convert. How do they avoid this next year?
12:46

Tim Twentyman:
I think he gets a shot at a backup role in camp. That's just a guess.
12:47

Comment From Anthony
I am nor sure if the Lions worked a lot on blitzes. Do you think it was from personell or just because of the front four? Do u think it is something they will work on more next year?
12:47

Comment From Melissa
The defensive players might not have been making all the right plays but don't you think the Defensive coaches had something to do with it. Where has the blitzing gone?
12:47

Tim Twentyman:
I will keep you updated on everything Lions related, Barry. That's my job
12:48

Tim Twentyman:
According to the Philadelphia media, the Lions tried to jump on it during training camp. We'll see if that's revisited. But first the Lions need to handle some in-house stuff.
12:49

Comment From Eric
Do you think the comment that Aaron Berry made on Twitter was really directed towards fans? He claims it wasn't ?
12:49

Comment From Nick
Do you think Aaron Berry lost his chance to play with the Lions next year with his comments about Detroit fans after the playoff loss to the saints?
12:50

Tim Twentyman:
I think some guys need to grow up and focus a little more. I thought they got a lot better at avoiding the after the whistle stuff, which was good. Coaches need to make guys accountable.
12:51

Comment From Sean
so are you expecting jeff backus to be released then and the lions to pursue a LT in the FA? I think his play was improved this year. I would personally like the lions to stay inactive at the RB position i have high hopes for Leshoure i loved his play in college i see him in the mold of Marshawn Lynch
12:51

Comment From Faninnewengland
I think Detroit is an attractive spot to land some nice free agents.... do you think they could land one or is it going to be too difficult with signing their own FA? And if you were Martin who would you target in free agency?
12:52

Comment From Dave
Schefflier is the man! Why don't you play him more?
12:52

Comment From Todd
Nick Fairley showrd some promise when he wasn't hurt. My question is did he show he was worth the high pick spent on him and can we expect him and Suh to lock down the D line next year or is he hoing to be average to good not great?
12:53

Tim Twentyman:
The Lions are taking the approach that they can get pressure with just four guys. A lot like the Giants' approach. It allows Cunningham an Schwartz to do more things with the back seven in terms of coverage. Guys have to have a skill set for blitzing, too
12:54

Tim Twentyman:
I think it was directed toward the fans. He was just frustrated with the loss. I like Aaron, he's a good guy when you talk to him. We all have our moments.
12:55

Tim Twentyman:
I think Berry does have a chance with the Lions nest year, Nick. He's physical and fits the scheme. He has to improve his ball skills and some other areas, but he's only a second-year player.
12:57

Tim Twentyman:
I think Backus has to decide if he's going to retire or not first. If not, I think Backus is back next season (depending on his health) but he's back on a one- or two-year deal for a lot less money. They will seek a LT through free agency or the draft
12:58

Tim Twentyman:
I think Detroit has become a better FA destination. I think Schwartz's style appeals to players and the they have some nice young weapons to build around. They landed guys like Burleson and Vanden Bosch and Tulloch. I see no reason why they can't land a few more.
12:59

Tim Twentyman:
Scheffler signed the deal, Dave. Lions aren't in the business of paying players more than they have to. His deal was a good one
1:00

Comment From Jim
What can they do to stop the run?
1:00

Comment From Eric
What's your thoughts on the NFL Challenge system? I think it needs major tweaking. Also should the NFL just make the O.T. the same as it is in College Football instead through the regular season and playoffs? I think it would be more exciting this way.
1:00

Comment From frank
to your point about Gunther not coaching any different down the stretch, couldn't that have been part of the problem? defense got more predicable. many of us noticed them using less wrinkles (suh at DE for example) than last year. did the lockout/injuries cause them to condense things a bit?
1:00

Tim Twentyman:
I think Fairley was worth the pick. I think he's going to be a stud and him and Suh are going to anchor that line for a long time. It all starts upfront.
1:02

Tim Twentyman:
They can tackle better and tailor the scheme to stop it better. Make it a little more of the focus. Help D-line read and react to run a little better.
1:04

Tim Twentyman:
I think the challenge system does need some tweaking. I'd like to see teams not lose a challenge if they get it right. As long as they keep winning challenges they can keep throwing the flag. I don't like the college overtime, personally. I think the NFL playoff rules should go through the whole season.
1:07

Tim Twentyman:
I don't think so, Frank. It was the same staff and basically same players upfront. I think the biggest thing was the injuries. No Delmas. No Houston. No depth along D-line. Then you're playing the Saints and Packers. I think Gunther was hamstrung. Can't just blitz to blitz or move guys out of their natural position just to shake things up. Those are acts of desperation.
1:07

Tim Twentyman:
Thanks for joining in and we'll talk to you all next week.