As the Detroit Lions gear up for the 2024 season, the buzz around the team roster and player roles is reaching a fever pitch. The Lions have officially announced their team captains, headlined by a significant first-time inclusion: Aidan Hutchinson. The defensive end, who has been a key figure in leading the Lions' sack charts for two consecutive seasons, joins the veteran leadership group this year.
Hutchinson's inclusion as a captain isn't entirely surprising, considering his immense contributions on the field and in the locker room. "Hutch has been unbelievable this offseason, and I think he's made huge, huge strides from the time I arrived until where we are now," said Terrell Williams, the Lions' new defensive line coach, in an interview with Pride of Detroit. "He's constantly asking questions, studying tape, and working on his craft. We need a lot more guys that have that mentality." Hutchinson, a two-time captain at Michigan, seems perfectly suited to step into this expanded role in the NFL.
Joining Hutchinson as captains are familiar faces like Jared Goff, Alex Anzalone, and Penei Sewell. Goff and Anzalone have served as captains since head coach Dan Campbell took over, while Sewell and Amon-Ra St. Brown, both of whom signed significant contract extensions this offseason, are back for another year as captains. Rounding out the leadership group is Jalen Reeves-Maybin, who continues his captaincy for a second straight year, having previously served in this capacity during an earlier stint with the Lions, according to Detroit Free Press.
One of the most intriguing roster decisions involves the Lions’ new kicker, Jake Bates. The young kicker has secured the starting role after standout performances in the UFL with the Michigan Panthers. Brad Holmes, the Lions’ GM, admitted that Bates brings both excitement and uncertainty to the position. In a piece for Sports Illustrated, Holmes remarked, “We all crave certainty, but there’s excitement about the unknown. We have to let this kid get every single rep possible, and he’s shown he has the right mentality."
However, the decision to go with the largely unproven Bates hasn’t been without criticism. In an article from Lions Wire, doubts were raised about Bates' lack of experience. “Relying on such an inexperienced kicker is a major gamble for the Lions,” Jeff Risdon wrote. Bates only started kicking field goals in the UFL, and while he has displayed impressive leg strength, his control and consistency remain works in progress.
The Lions have also fortified their practice squad with notable signings, earning them top marks from analysts. Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports gave high praise to the Lions’ practice squad for its depth and talent, highlighting veteran wide receivers Donovan Peoples-Jones, Tim Patrick, and Allen Robinson. Trapasso noted in Sporting News, “The Lions secure the top spot mostly due to the receivers on their practice squad. DPJ is one of the most explosive receivers in the NFL.” This depth could be a crucial factor as the Lions navigate the uncertainties of the season ahead.
As the 2024 season kicks off, the Lions' mix of seasoned leaders and fresh faces sets the stage for a year full of promise. With Aidan Hutchinson stepping up as a captain and Jake Bates ready to make his mark, Detroit fans have every reason to be excited about what's to come.
What other sites are saying about this topic
Fact or Fiction: Are Lions Taking Ultimate Gamble on Jake Bates? from Sports Illustrated
Detroit Lions name 6 captains for 2024 season, including first-time captain Aidan Hutchinson from Detroit Free Press
Potential worries about the 2024 Detroit Lions: Kicking from Jeff Risdon, Lions Wire
Lions announce captains for 2024 season, including 1 first-timer from Jeremy Reisman, Pride Of Detroit
Detroit Lions' practice squad gets high praise in NFL analyst's rankings from Sporting News