In a surprising turn of events, Geoff Schwartz is expected to be cut today by the Lions at the 75 man deadline. Seen originally as a key veteran backup when brought in earlier in the offseason, Schwartz has been plagued with injuries throughout training camp and has failed to live up to expectations. This is a consistent theme with Schwartz, because while the 30 year old veteran has bounced around the league throughout his eight year career providing quality performances while on the field, he has struggled to stay there due to one injury or another. This move comes following a trade with the San Fransisco 49er’s, sending another early offseason hopeful Jeremy Kerley off for young guard Brandon Thomas. Thomas, a third round pick last season, is hoping to recapture some of his promise from college in a new environment. Needless to say this is an incredibly disappointing turn for Schwartz, hopefully the early release date will allow him enough time to catch on with another offensive line needy team as we quickly approach the start of the season.
With this move in mind, expect Joe Dahl to take on a far more important position then previously expected, becoming the new primary interior backup with Graham Glasgow in the mix as well if an injury were to occur. Newcomer Brandon Thomas and fiesty UDFA Chase Farris at this point seem to be the finalists competing for the last backup flex-offensive line role. This leaves the only other battle being for the swing tackle position, with a group consisting of Corey Robinson, Cornelius Lucas, and Michael Ola all having a realistic chance of taking the job. Slowly but surely it seems the offensive line depth chart is starting to become solidified.
Stay tuned in as we continue to update you with the cuts as the Lions make their way down to a 75 man roster.
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