Detroit Lions linebacker James Houston is likely one of the toughest roster decisions the coaching staff and front office will have to consider this weekend.
Many beat writers still project Houston making the team due to his exceptional ability to rush the passer and sack the quarterback, a skill highly coveted and valued across the NFL.
However, efforts to expand his game and develop him into a three-down player have not been successful.
The Detroit Football Network recently released their final 53-man roster prediction, which did not include the former sixth-round pick, opting instead for Isaac Ukwu.
As Justin Rogers explained, “The other debate was what to do with Houston. He got anything but a ringing endorsement from Campbell after Saturday’s game, noting the team faced a tough decision with how to handle the one-dimensional edge rusher.
“While piecing together this projection, I looked at Ukwu and Houston as an either/or debate. Because Houston’s one skill — getting after the QB — is so highly valued, I’m among those who wonder if Holmes can flip him for receiving help.
James Houston (Photo: Pride of Detroit)
If life were a video game, that would be my play, but reality requires two to tango.”
Dan Campbell didn’t give the third-year pass rusher a strong endorsement when asked about evaluating a player like Houston.
“We didn’t have him for much of camp. He was hurt, so we didn’t get to see him at Kansas City this week. So, he’s probably had maybe half of training camp, if that,” Campbell explained.
“So, you have to evaluate based on the totality of his work. We understand he’s a year-three player, so we look at his body of work in practice against our very good tackles.
“We have two of the best tackles in the league that he’s up against. You take those reps and then assess what you see today—how’s his health? Can he still move? But, I think this is going to be a tough decision for Brad [Holmes] and myself,” Campbell continued.
“It’s a difficult call, one way or another. You’re asking, ‘Is it enough?’ It’s hard to say right now. This is something we’ll need to hash out together, with the coaching staff and everyone involved. We have to ensure we’re seeing things clearly.”
