The Detroit Lions signed veteran tight end Darrell Daniels to their active roster on September 27, 2023. The move comes with the Lions potentially losing fullback Jason Cabinda to a knee injury this week.
Daniels is a 6-foot-2, 240-pound tight end who has played in the NFL since 2013. He has spent time with the Seattle Seahawks, Arizona Cardinals, and New Orleans Saints. In 2021, he had 49 backfield snaps and 67 in 2020. He also has good experience on special teams.
The Lions are considering moving Daniels to fullback if Cabinda is unable to play this week. Daniels has some experience playing in the backfield, and he has the size and strength to be an effective fullback.
The Detroit Lions Darrell Daniels
“He’s a versatile player,” Lions head coach Dan Campbell said of Daniels. “He can play tight end, he can play fullback, he can play on special teams. He’s a guy who’s been in the league for a while, so he knows what he’s doing. We’re going to take a look at him and see how he fits.”
If Daniels is moved to fullback, he would join an already-crowded backfield in Detroit. The Lions also have running backs D’Andre Swift, Jamaal Williams, Craig Reynolds, and Justin Jackson on their roster.
However, The Detroit Lions have been looking for a fullback who can be a more effective blocker than Cabinda. Cabinda is a good receiver, but he is not as big or as strong as Daniels.
“We’re looking for a guy who can be a physical presence in the backfield,” Campbell said. “We want a guy who can block and open up holes for our running backs.”
Daniels could also be used as a tight end in Detroit. The Lions have rookie tight end Sam LaPorta, who has started the season well. However, they could use more depth at the position.
“We like Sam,” Campbell said. “But we also want to have some depth at tight end. Darrell is a guy who can give us that.”
Daniels is excited to be with the Lions and is eager to contribute, no matter where he is asked to play.
“I’m just happy to be here and to have an opportunity to help the team,” Daniels said. “I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win.”
Could Daniels Be a Successful Fullback?
Daniels has some of the physical tools to be a successful fullback. He is big and strong, and he has some experience playing in the backfield.
However, there are some question marks about Darrell Daniels‘ ability to transition to fullback. He has not played the position full-time since college. He also has not been known as a particularly good blocker.
If Daniels is moved to fullback, he will need to learn how to block effectively at the NFL level. He will also need to be able to pass protect and run block.
However, Daniels has the potential to be a successful fullback if he is willing to put in the work. He is a versatile player who is eager to contribute.
What Would Daniels Add to The Detroit Lions’ Offense?
If Daniels is moved to fullback, he would add a physical presence to the Lions’ offense. He could block effectively for the running backs and pass protect for quarterback Jared Goff.
Daniels could also be used as a receiver out of the backfield. He has good hands and is a threat to catch the ball.
Daniels could also be used as a tight end. He is a good blocker and has good size and speed.
Overall, Daniels is a versatile player who could add a lot to the Lions’ offense. He is a physical blocker, a good receiver, and a good blocker. He is also a versatile player who can play multiple positions.
What Are the Challenges of Converting to Fullback?
There are a few challenges that Daniels would face if he were to convert to fullback.
First, he would need to learn how to block effectively at the NFL level. Fullbacks are responsible for blocking linebackers and defensive ends. They also need to be able to pass protect and run block.
Second, Daniels would need to put on some weight. Fullbacks are typically bigger and stronger than tight ends. This is because they need to be able to block bigger and stronger defenders.
Third, Daniels would need to learn a new playbook. Fullbacks have a lot of different responsibilities.
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