Watch CBS News

Lions Report: Strategy And Personnel

TEAM NEEDS

1. Outside linebacker: Mayhew said he viewed both Bobby Carpenter and Ashlee Palmer as candidates to start at outside linebacker next season. But if camp opened today, they would be competing against themselves. The Lions need to restock the position.

2. Cornerback: The Lions tendered free-agent cornerback Chris Houston, but he still wants to pursue free agency. The Lions have several promising young cornerbacks on the roster -- Alphonso Smith, Aaron Berry, Brandon McDonald, Tye Hill and Prince Miller - but as Mayhew said, "All those guys have talent, all have upside and potential, but not many have performed at a high level in games."

3. Wide receiver/running back: The Lions will be looking to add depth in the fourth or fifth rounds at these two spots. The third-receiver spot was a major disappointment last season and the health of backup running back Kevin Smith is a lingering concern. He had two more surgeries (knee and shoulder) this offseason.

MEDICAL WATCH
No updates.

FRANCHISE PLAYER
None.

TRANSITION PLAYER
None.

PLAYERS RE-SIGNED

--CB Nathan Vasher: Potential UFA; 1 yr, terms unknown.

PLAYERS AQCUIRED

--S Erik Coleman: FA Falcons; terms unknown.

PLAYERS LOST

--CB Eric King (released).

--LB Julian Peterson (released/failed physical).

Copyright (C) 2011 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.