Where The Lions Roster Stands: Safety

Previously: Quarterback, Running Back, Wide Receiver, Tight End, Offensive Tackle, Offensive Guard, Center, Defensive End, Defensive Tackle, Linebacker, Cornerback

Under contract: Louis Delmas (through 2012), Amari Spievey (through 2012), John Wendling (through 2013), Ricardo Silva (through 2012)

Free agents: Chris Harris (UFA), Erik Coleman (UFA)

Cornerback wasn't the only position that was ravaged by injuries in the 2011 season. That also happened at safety, as guys like Louis Delmas and Amari Spievey got dinged up down the stretch. Delmas has had several injury issues during his career, but when he's healthy he's a very good safety. Spievey also showed a lot of promise at times, although he was often very inconsistent.

The two other safeties under contract for the Lions are John Wendling and Ricardo Silva. Wendling is an outstanding special teams player, which is why he is on the team. He can play safety in a pinch, but his biggest contributions are on special teams. Silva is an undrafted free agent who made a very positive impression during last year's preseason. He spent most of the year on the practice squad and will try to make the active roster in 2012.

The Lions' two free agents at safety are Chris Harris and Erik Coleman. Harris was a mid-season addition after the Chicago Bears released him. Coleman signed with the Lions before the lockout last year but suffered a season-ending injury early in the season against the Dallas Cowboys.

Need going forward?

As with cornerback, depth isn't exactly great at safety for the Lions, especially considering how often Delmas seems to be banged up. It would be ideal for the Lions to add another starting-caliber safety to not only compete with Spievey, but also to be there in case injuries happen. This is a position that could be addressed in free agency or the draft.