Detroit Lions NFL Training Camp Update - Receivers

The Detroit Lions are excited and they should be. With a trio of receivers that is certainly on par with any in the NFL as far as talent, the only way for this group to go is up. Roy Williams is certain to be the ring leader, but this year he has some competition. With the second pick in the draft, the Lions picked Georgia Tech All American Calvin Johnson. Additionally, the Lions already had another 1000+ yard man in Mike Furrey. Now that is a load of talent for the Lions and offensive coordinator Mike Martz to play with.

Roy Williams is quite simply amazing. In a fairly anemic offense in Detroit in his first three years, he has still managed to amass nearly 3000 yards, and scored 23 touchdowns. Those are pretty awesome numbers in a good offensive setting, much less in a bad one. Last year was a particularly good year, as he gained 1310 yards with 7 touchdowns. Mike Martz must be salivating at getting his hands on this receiving corp.

Mike Furrey established himself as a bona fide star last season in Detroit. All he did was amass 1086 yards and scored 6 touchdowns. This after being a non factor in two previous seasons. Martz has a way of bringing out the best in receivers, and certainly Furrey is an example. Furrey is a stout ballplayer at 6'0" and 205 pounds, but he is fast. Many don't expect him to be so quick, and by the time they adjust, he is by them.

As good as Williams and Furrey is, new draft pick Calvin Johnson may end up being even better. He has a fantastic attitude to boot, and is ready to learn. This season will be a lot of fun to watch him grow in Martz's system. It would surprise few if Johnson rises to the number two spot over Furrey by mid season. Coupled with these two receivers, Johnson will have the room to shine without much coverage. If the defense covers Johnson with anything extra, then Furrey or Williams will burn him. If they leave Johnson in single coverage the defender has little chance. Right now, Johnson is better than most of the corners in the NFL.