Friday open thread: Who will take the early lead at No. 2 cornerback?

The Detroit Lions made plenty of moves during the offseason to shore up the defense at all three levels. No decision was bigger than landing Trey Flowers to drastically improve the pass rush, and drafting Jahlani Tavai in the second round showed commitment to improving the linebacking corps. Justin Coleman slots in as the nickel corner, giving head coach Matt Patricia plenty of new faces on defense.

One spot that remains in flux, however, is the second starting cornerback position opposite Darius Slay. The cast of characters is not too impressive, but at least one player has to step up...right?

The leading candidates appear to be Rashaan Melvin, Teez Tabor, and Amani Oruwariye, although a few others may enter the fray. The 29-year-old Melvin was signed on a one-year deal in the offseason after a contentious stint in Oakland. Tabor has been under the microscope in every season since being drafted, and the results have been less than stellar. Meanwhile, Oruwariye was a prospect who many considered a top talent, but somehow fell to Detroit in the fifth round.

Today’s Question of the Day is:

Which player will take the early lead as CB2?

My answer: At the start of camp, I think the money has to be on Melvin. Though he is coming off an abysmal season, he has the experience his competitors lack, and that is certainly something Patricia will value.

Both Tabor and Oruwariye have a lot of potential, but none has yet been realized. The latter could very well turn out to be a productive NFL player, but rookie corners are notoriously risky, so his 2019 impact is unlikely to be much. Tabor has not lived up to his draft pick, but everything might finally be coming together for him. I think there is a good chance he wins the job by the end of the preseason.

Your turn.