The Lions have claimed wide receiver Marko Mitchell, who was waived by the Redskins earlier this week. Mitchell was a seventh-round draft pick a year ago after finishing up a very good career at Nevada. He was born in Port Huron and went to high school in Alabama before eventually ending up at Nevada following a couple stints at community colleges.
Mitchell played in 10 games with the Redskins last year and only had 4 catches for 32 yards. Still, based on what I've read, he showed some potential thanks mainly to his combination of size and speed. This is what his NFL Draft profile said, for example:
The Mesa (Ariz.) Community College transfer has developed into one of the country's most feared big-play threats. He's had similar production in his first two years, leading the Wolfpack in receptions (53 in 2007, 61 in 2008), receiving yards (1,129, 1,141) and receiving touchdowns (eight, ten). He ranked second in the nation averaging 21.3 yards per catch as a junior, but finally made first team All-WAC this season. Those outstanding numbers are boosted by Nevada's unique "pistol" offense, but his rare combination of height and straight-line speed makes him a difficult matchup for any cornerback. Had an arm span of 34 1/2 inches and a hand span of 10 1/4 inches at the combine.
Mitchell will compete for a spot on the roster, but more than anything he will be good for the Lions' cornerbacks to practice against due to his size. Lining up against a 6'4" receiver is no easy task, but that is what Mitchell brings to the table.