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Lions Team Report
By Tom Kowalski/Booth Newspapers
May 23, 2003
WR Az-Zahir Hakim struggled last year when injuries at wideout forced the team to move him from the slot to the outside. Hakim lacks the size to excel in one-on-one matchups. He's better suited for the short, underneath routes, where he can use his elusiveness to get open. With first-round pick Charles Rogers starting outside, Hakim can be the weapon in the slot the team envisioned when it signed him.
The presence of Rogers also should benefit WR Bill Schroeder. Last year, Schroeder was asked to do things, including running crossing routes against zones, that didn't suit him. Now Schroeder can do what he does best: Use his speed to get open on fade routes and skinny posts.
Safeties analysis
This is a physical unit that's strong against the run but lacks speed. SS Corey Harris was one of the team's most consistent players in 2002. If healthy, FS Brian Walker —who was hobbled by a toe injury last year—will give the team a center fielder with range that it lacked a year ago. Rookie Terrence Holt is being groomed to eventually replace Harris. Lamar Campbell and Bracey Walker will battle for the fourth safety job. Campbell has a slight edge because of his versatility on special teams.
By Tom Kowalski/Booth Newspapers
May 23, 2003
WR Az-Zahir Hakim struggled last year when injuries at wideout forced the team to move him from the slot to the outside. Hakim lacks the size to excel in one-on-one matchups. He's better suited for the short, underneath routes, where he can use his elusiveness to get open. With first-round pick Charles Rogers starting outside, Hakim can be the weapon in the slot the team envisioned when it signed him.
The presence of Rogers also should benefit WR Bill Schroeder. Last year, Schroeder was asked to do things, including running crossing routes against zones, that didn't suit him. Now Schroeder can do what he does best: Use his speed to get open on fade routes and skinny posts.
Safeties analysis
This is a physical unit that's strong against the run but lacks speed. SS Corey Harris was one of the team's most consistent players in 2002. If healthy, FS Brian Walker —who was hobbled by a toe injury last year—will give the team a center fielder with range that it lacked a year ago. Rookie Terrence Holt is being groomed to eventually replace Harris. Lamar Campbell and Bracey Walker will battle for the fourth safety job. Campbell has a slight edge because of his versatility on special teams.
