clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Detroit Lions Week 9 Unsung Hero of the Week: Jack Fox holds it down, literally

Fox has been reliable both as a punter and a holder this season.

NFL: Detroit Lions at Arizona Cardinals Billy Hardiman-USA TODAY Sports

I tried, guys. I really did. We’re going into Week 10 of the season. I waited nine whole weeks to give Jack Fox Unsung Hero of the Week, and it took every ounce of strength within me. This week, however, I caved, and your should-be All Pro punter is your Unsung Hero of the Week.

It’s not necessarily for his punting, too. Fox didn’t have a terrible day, but definitely a bit below his usual superstar punting self. I’ve kept a close eye on him for most of the season not just as a punter, but as a holder, and that’s what really made me budge with the award this week. When the Vikings botched the hold and, as a result, the kick, on an early extra point, I knew it had to be done.

Fox has transitioned seamlessly into so many different roles in Detroit. He’s essentially redefining what it means to be a good punter in the NFL in 2020. Additionally, Fox has taken over kickoff duties, which Sam Martin held down for as long as I can remember. The cherry on top is that I’ve yet to see Fox have any mishaps as holder, which isn’t something to take for granted. With Matt Prater already struggling, there’s no margin for error on the punting unit.

As we transition into the looking towards the draft phase of every Lions season, we must not take for granted the few players and things we can rely on even in the darkest of seasons. This year, that starts with Jack Fox, as a punter, holder, kickoff specialist, fan favorite, and more.

Pride of Detroit Direct

Sign up now for a 7-day free trial of Pride of Detroit Direct, with exclusive updates from Jeremy Reisman on the ground at Allen Park, instant reactions after each game, and in-depth Lions analysis from film expert Jon Ledyard.