- As noted in a FanShot yesterday, the Lions signed wide receiver Ronald Curry and fullback Terrelle Smith to one-year deals. Curry visited earlier this week and helps upgrade the wide receiver position. Regardless of whether or not Matthew Stafford is drafted, the Lions needed to improve their receiving corps behind Calvin Johnson, and this offseason I think they have accomplished that goal. As for Smith, he seems like someone that could become a starter. He and Jerome Felton will probably compete for the starting fullback job this summer.
- Matthew Stafford participated in a chat on ESPN.com yesterday.
- Stafford also made the rounds on TV, doing interviews for both ESPN and NFL Network. Although I am strongly against the Lions drafting him, I will admit that Stafford seemed very level-headed and down to earth. If he does end up being the Lions' pick, I do think he will be a good person to have representing the franchise. Again, I hope he isn't picked, but if he is I think I will be able to deal with it after the initial anger wears off.
- The Lions apparently looked into centers Alex Mack, Eric Wood, and Max Unger and are considering them for their second-round pick.
- Eastern Michigan offensive lineman T.J. Lang visited the Lions and worked out for the team. He is a versatile lineman who is watching his stock quickly rise.
- The Lions hosted Michigan's Carson Butler for a visit recently. His pro day was run by the Lions' tight ends coach, and apparently they are interested in Butler, who is expected to be a late-round pick. Butler was switched to defensive end midway through last season based on the fact that he was beat out by a freshman at tight end and because he never seemed to buy into the program. Mel Kiper has been someone talking up Butler and how much potential he has, but I just don't see it. Butler was a terrible blocker, and although he has great athleticism, it says a lot when a freshman beats you out. Also, he beat the crap out of a Michigan student back on St. Patrick's Day a few years ago. The worst part is that the student he beat up wasn't the one he was even looking for. It was a big mistake that resulted in the student being sent to the hospital.
- Cris Collinsworth is going to replace John Madden as NBC's color commentator.
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