During the 2014 NFL draft, the Detroit Lions selected a total of 8 players. However, what is often overlooked is the fact that some of the team’s most impactful players that year were actually undrafted free agents (UDFAs). In this article, we will take a look back at the best UDFAs from the Detroit Lions’ 2014 class, who defied the odds and proved their worth on the field.
1. Jerome Couplin III
Jerome Couplin III was a safety from William & Mary who was signed by the Detroit Lions as a UDFA in 2014. Although he didn’t get much playing time during his rookie year, Couplin’s strong work ethic and dedication to the game eventually paid off. In his second season with the Lions, he played in 11 games and recorded 14 tackles. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to a shoulder injury. Nevertheless, Couplin proved to be a valuable asset to the Lions’ defensive unit and earned the respect of his coaches and teammates alike.
2. Cornelius Lucas
Cornelius Lucas was an offensive tackle from Kansas State who was signed by the Lions as a UDFA in 2014. At 6’8” and 328 pounds, Lucas was an imposing figure on the field. Although he started off as a backup for the Lions, he eventually worked his way up to becoming a starter in the 2015 season. Lucas played in a total of 35 games for the Lions and started in 6 of them. He was eventually released by the team in 2017, but his contribution to the Lions’ offensive line should not be overlooked.
3. Andrew Peacock
Andrew Peacock was a wide receiver from Appalachian State who was signed by the Lions as a UDFA in 2014. Although he didn’t make much of an impact during his rookie year, Peacock’s speed and agility caught the attention of the Lions’ coaching staff. In the 2015 preseason, he had an impressive performance, catching 7 passes for 67 yards and a touchdown. Unfortunately, he was released by the Lions before the start of the regular season. However, Peacock’s brief stint with the Lions showed that he had the potential to be a valuable asset to any team.
4. James Franklin
James Franklin was a quarterback from Missouri who was signed by the Lions as a UDFA in 2014. Although he didn’t make the final roster that year, Franklin’s leadership qualities and work ethic impressed the Lions’ coaching staff. He was eventually signed to the practice squad, where he spent the entire season. Franklin was released by the Lions in 2015, but his brief stint with the team showed that he had the potential to be a successful NFL quarterback.
5. Chad Abram
Chad Abram was a fullback from Florida State who was signed by the Lions as a UDFA in 2014. Although he didn’t get much playing time during his rookie year, Abram’s versatility and blocking skills made him a valuable asset to the Lions’ special teams unit. He played in a total of 16 games for the Lions and recorded 4 tackles. Abram was eventually released by the team in 2016, but his contribution to the Lions’ special teams should not be overlooked.
Conclusion
The Detroit Lions’ 2014 UDFA class may not have received as much attention as their draft picks that year, but it produced some of the team’s most impactful players. Jerome Couplin III, Cornelius Lucas, Andrew Peacock, James Franklin, and Chad Abram all defied the odds and proved that hard work and dedication can take you far in the NFL. While some of these players may no longer be with the Lions, their contribution to the team’s success should not be overlooked.
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