Detroit Lions pick up Eric Ebron’s fifth-year option

Just before the May 2 deadline, the Detroit Lions have reportedly exercised Eric Ebron’s fifth-year option. The team announced the move Tuesday morning

The Lions selected Ebron 10th overall in the 2014 draft and the former Tarheel has had an up-and-down career since. Though his statistics have steadily improved in each season, many don’t believe he has lived up to the standard set by being a top-10 pick in the draft. Specifically, Ebron has struggled with drops throughout his career, which was a common concern with him coming out of college.

Considering the lack of depth at tight end, the move to exercise Ebron’s fifth year doesn’t come as that much of a surprise.

There were rumors that a tight end may have been in play for Detroit with their first-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Had the Lions opted to go that route, Ebron’s fifth year may not have been picked up.

However, Detroit did add tight end Michael Roberts in the fourth round of the draft, leading some to believe Ebron’s job was in danger. While Roberts provides a huge target at 6-foot-4, he doesn’t have the speed and agility that makes Ebron a mismatch for many defenses. It would’ve been hard to expect the youngster to take over Ebron’s role had the Lions decided to decline Ebron’s option. Instead, Roberts will likely contend for the No. 2 tight end spot with free agent addition Darren Fells.

Now that Detroit has exercised his fifth year, Ebron is signed through 2018. The final year of his contract is expected to cost the Lions $8.25 million.