Detroit Lions Te Depth Chart: Who Will Be The Starting Tight End In 2023?


Resetting the Lions depth chart after first two weeks of free agency
Resetting the Lions depth chart after first two weeks of free agency from lionswire.usatoday.com

The Detroit Lions have had a tumultuous few years, but with a new coaching staff and a fresh outlook, they are poised to turn things around in 2023. One position that has been a point of contention for the team in recent years is tight end. With the departure of veteran TE T.J. Hockenson, the Lions will need to find a new starter for the 2023 season. In this article, we'll take a look at the current depth chart and analyze the potential options for the starting tight end position.

The Current Depth Chart

As of the start of the 2023 season, the Detroit Lions have four tight ends on their roster: Jesse James, Hunter Bryant, Alize Mack, and Charlie Taumoepeau. Let's take a closer look at each player and what they bring to the table.

Jesse James

Jesse James was signed by the Lions in 2019 and has primarily served as a backup tight end. He's a reliable target in the passing game and has good size at 6'7", 250 pounds. However, he's not known for his blocking ability and has struggled with drops at times.

Hunter Bryant

Hunter Bryant was a fourth-round pick out of Washington in 2021. He's a talented receiving tight end with good speed and hands. However, he's undersized at 6'2", 240 pounds and needs to work on his blocking ability to become a more well-rounded player.

Alize Mack

Alize Mack was signed by the Lions in 2022 after spending time with the New Orleans Saints and Kansas City Chiefs. He's a big-bodied tight end at 6'4", 250 pounds and has shown flashes of potential in the past. However, he's struggled with injuries and consistency throughout his career.

Charlie Taumoepeau

Charlie Taumoepeau was signed as an undrafted free agent out of Portland State in 2022. He's a raw prospect with good size at 6'3", 245 pounds. He's shown some potential in the preseason, but it remains to be seen if he can make an impact at the NFL level.

Potential Starting Options

Based on the current depth chart, there are a few potential options for the Lions' starting tight end in 2023. Let's take a look at each one.

Jesse James

Jesse James is the most experienced tight end on the roster and has shown that he can be a reliable target in the passing game. However, his blocking ability is a concern, and the Lions may be looking for a more well-rounded player to fill the starting role.

Hunter Bryant

Hunter Bryant has the potential to be a dynamic receiving tight end in the NFL. If he can improve his blocking ability, he could be a strong option for the Lions as a starter. However, he's still young and inexperienced, so it remains to be seen if he's ready for a starting role.

Alize Mack

Alize Mack has the size and potential to be a starting tight end in the NFL. However, his injury history and inconsistency are concerns. If he can stay healthy and put it all together, he could be a strong option for the Lions.

Conclusion

Overall, the Detroit Lions have a few potential options for their starting tight end in 2023. Jesse James, Hunter Bryant, and Alize Mack all have their strengths and weaknesses, and it will be up to the coaching staff to decide who is best suited for the role. It's an important position for the team, and whoever ends up starting will have a big impact on the offense. Only time will tell who will emerge as the top option.


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