Projecting the Lions depth chart: Safety

As the offseason winds down, we're going to project each position on the Detroit Lions depth chart and also take a look at some training camp battles. Next up is the safety position.

Starters: Glover Quin (FS), James Ihedigbo (SS) | Top backup: Don Carey

This is another position where things are already pretty much set for the top half of the depth chart. Glover Quin is back as a starter, and this year he's going to serve as the Lions' free safety. Stepping in as the starting strong safety is James Ihedigbo, who followed defensive coordinator Teryl Austin from Baltimore to Detroit. Don Carey, meanwhile, is in line to be the Lions' top backup at safety after getting an extension at the beginning of the year.

Other players: DeJon Gomes, Isa Abdul-Quddus, Jerome Couplin, Gabe Lynn

Going into training camp, DeJon Gomes and Isa Abdul-Quddus are the frontrunners for the final two spots at safety. That's assuming the Lions keep five total safeties, of course, but Gomes and Abdul-Quddus both have starting experience and are expected to make significant contributions on special teams.

Camp battle to watch: DeJon Gomes vs. Isa Abdul-Quddus vs. Jerome Couplin

Of the Lions' two undrafted free agents, Jerome Couplin seems to have the best chance of getting into the mix for a roster spot based on his potential on special teams. His skills as a safety are less important at this stage. If he can perform at a high level on special teams, he could conceivably make the team over Gomes and/or Abdul-Quddus, who will also be looking to show off their special teams skills. Depending on how the roster shakes out, there will be room for one or two of these three players.

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