Demotions in Detroit
The big story in Detroit has been the relegation of wide receivers Charles Rogers and Mike Williams, two first-round busts thus far, to the third team. The two are fighting for their NFL lives.
Rogers, a hometown favorite from Michigan State, heard cheers when he finally entered the game. A few plays later, he lost his balance while lining up, leading to a five-yard illegal motion penalty.
Williams, however, made the catch of the game, a 24-yarder that set up a Detroit touchdown. He had to jump and use his body to shield Denver cornerback Roc Alexander from the pass. It was the kind of catch he made routinely while at USC. Later in the game, Alexander returned the favor by dislodging Williams from a reception with a perfectly-timed hit.
Based on one game, Rogers could be the odd receiver out. Roy Williams looked very good with the first unit and the other starter is Corey Bradford. The Lions also plan to keep rookie Shaun Bodiford. Then, there is ex-Ram Mike Furrey, Eddie Drummond and Glenn Martinez. It seems improbable the Lions will simply release Rogers, but anything is possible these days.
