The Lions' secret weapon: Unlocking the potential of Larry Borom
The Lions' recent acquisition of Larry Borom has been a strategic move that could significantly impact their performance this season. While Borom's PFF grades might not be eye-catching, his experience and consistency make him a valuable asset. With a history of starting in 38 games over five years, playing both left and right tackle, Borom brings a level of reliability to the offensive line that was lacking last season.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Borom's game is his potential as a secret weapon in jumbo packages. The NFL is witnessing a trend towards increased use of two and three tight end sets, with teams like the Rams embracing this strategy. This shift is further evidenced by the significant draft capital and contracts invested in tight ends, with 22 tight ends drafted this year compared to 14 in the previous year.
The Lions, under the leadership of Drew Petzing, are already ahead of this curve. Petzing's experience in utilizing tight ends in Arizona, coupled with the team's investment in Tip Reiman, a 270+ lb blocking tight end, suggests a strategic approach to maximizing the potential of this position.
The benefits of employing jumbo packages are multifaceted. Firstly, it creates a larger surface area and more gaps for the defense to manage, putting pressure on them. Secondly, offenses are guaranteed to face a base defense (3 LBs), and many teams prefer to hide their backers in coverage, making it a strategic advantage.
In the run game, Borom's presence would be a significant upgrade over current options like Conklin or Meeks. His ability to create space and provide a solid foundation for the running game is crucial. Additionally, in the pass game, Borom's presence forces the defense to commit resources to cover him, creating opportunities for other offensive players.
The financial aspect of Borom's contract is also noteworthy. With a 5-year deal averaging 8.1 million, the Ravens' blocking tight end, Charlie Kolar, has shown that these players can offer value despite limited receiving statistics. Borom, with his reliability and experience, could potentially provide more bang for the buck, especially if the Lions aim to utilize him in a variety of roles.
In conclusion, Larry Borom's addition to the Lions' roster is a strategic move that could unlock new dimensions of their offensive play. His experience, consistency, and potential as a secret weapon in jumbo packages make him a valuable asset. As the NFL continues to evolve, Borom's versatility and reliability will be crucial in shaping the team's success.
