As we approach the start of a new NFL season, it's always fun to look back at the rookies from previous years and see how they've developed. In 2017, the Detroit Lions had a number of promising rookies who showed flashes of brilliance on the field. Let's take a closer look at some of their numbers and what they might tell us about their future in the league.
First up, we have wide receiver Kenny Golladay. The 6'4" rookie out of Northern Illinois had a promising start to his NFL career, hauling in two touchdowns in his first ever game. By the end of the season, he had racked up 28 receptions for 477 yards and three touchdowns. While those numbers may not jump off the page, it's important to remember that Golladay was playing behind two established veterans in Golden Tate and Marvin Jones Jr. With Tate now in New York and Jones Jr. getting up there in age, Golladay figures to have a much larger role in the Lions' offense this season.
The Running Backs
Ameer Abdullah
Another player who was expected to have a big role in the Lions' offense was running back Ameer Abdullah. Unfortunately, things didn't quite go according to plan. While Abdullah did manage to stay healthy for most of the season, his production was underwhelming. He rushed for just 552 yards and four touchdowns, with an average of just 3.3 yards per carry. He did show flashes of his potential as a pass-catcher, though, hauling in 25 receptions for 162 yards and a touchdown. Despite his struggles, Abdullah figures to have a chance to redeem himself this season, as he'll be competing with rookie Kerryon Johnson and veteran LeGarrette Blount for carries.
Kerryon Johnson
Speaking of Kerryon Johnson, the rookie out of Auburn had a solid debut season for the Lions. Despite missing some time due to injury, he rushed for 641 yards and three touchdowns on 118 carries, good for an average of 5.4 yards per carry. He also showed an ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, hauling in 32 receptions for 213 yards and a touchdown. Johnson figures to be the Lions' lead back this season, and if he can stay healthy, he could be in for a big year.
The Defensive Standouts
Jarrad Davis
While the Lions' defense as a whole struggled in 2017, there were a few bright spots. One of those was rookie linebacker Jarrad Davis. The former Florida Gator played in all 16 games, racking up 96 tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble. He also showed an ability to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game, which is becoming increasingly important in today's NFL. Davis figures to be a key piece of the Lions' defense for years to come.
Teez Tabor
Another rookie who showed promise on the defensive side of the ball was cornerback Teez Tabor. The former Florida standout didn't get a ton of playing time early in the season, but he saw more action as the year went on. He finished the season with 14 tackles, one interception, and three passes defensed. While those numbers aren't eye-popping, Tabor showed enough potential to warrant a larger role in the Lions' defense this season.
Overall, the Lions' rookie class of 2017 showed some promise, but there's definitely room for improvement. With a new coaching staff in place and some key veterans gone, these young players will have a chance to step up and make an impact in 2018.
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