Two of the biggest standout performers on the first day of Detroit Lions minicamp were wide receivers Trinity Benson and Quintez Cephus. Each had multiple impressive moments, important performances from two players hoping to shake off disappointing 2021 seasons in Detroit.
It sets the stage for what figures to be a summer-long battle between Benson and Cephus for the same spot on the Lions final 53-man roster.
The wide receiver depth chart is pretty well-established at the top. Rookie first-round pick Jameson Williams will start once he’s healthy. Free agent import DJ Chark and last year’s rookie sensation, Amon-Ra St. Brown will be the other primary players at the position. Josh Reynolds is safely on board after re-signing in the offseason following a strong finish to 2021.
Presuming the Lions keep six WRs — perhaps a dangerous presumption — that leaves two spots. Kalif Raymond is almost certainly guaranteed one spot. Campbell spoke very highly of Raymond before practice as a versatile gadget player who can align at multiple positions and will also be the starting punt returner. The matter-of-factness to Campbell’s tone makes it incredibly difficult to see the Lions moving on from Raymond, who also re-signed in Detroit this offseason.
So Tuesday’s impressive outings from both Benson and Cephus was important. They’re the top two combatants for the (maybe?) final spot. Campbell highlighted the differences between the two before Wednesday’s practice.
“Speed speed speed,” Campbell said of Benson. He clearly approved of the work Benson has put in this offseason to master the playbook. Campbell also talked up Benson’s potential on special teams,
“He’s pretty tough. I think he can help us on special teams. I think he can be gunner, and so if we can feel that speed, and he continues to catch the ball, and do what he’s done in spring, and then he comes out and competes at a gunner on special teams, I think that serves him well, serves us…
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