Lions Training Camp Scrimmage Notes: UDFA Erick Hunter Shines Among Strong LB Performance
The Detroit Lions' training camp scrimmages provide a unique opportunity to observe depth players facing starting-level talent. Among the standout performers on Friday was undrafted rookie linebacker Erick Hunter, who made a strong impression during the scrimmage.
Here's a breakdown of the key plays and notable performances from the scrimmage:
Drive 1: First-team offense vs. second-team defense
- Amon-Ra St. Brown's play-action pass for 8 yards was a highlight, but the run game struggled without key players.
- Jared Goff's 30-yard gain to Jameson Williams on a dig route was a bright spot.
- Chris Smith and Joe Bachie shared a sack, showcasing the defensive line's strength.
Drive 2: Second-team offense vs. first-team defense
- Chuck Clark and Rock Ya-Sin had strong defensive plays, shutting down the second-team offense.
Drive 3: Second-team offense vs. first-team defense
- Derrick Barnes' pressure on Luke Altmyer and his disruption of a screen pass showcased his potential.
- Devin White's pursuit of Kye Robichaux behind the line of scrimmage was impressive.
Special Teams
- Erick Hunter's performance in special teams drills, both as a blocker and a pursuer, continued his strong showing.
Drive 4: First-team offense vs. first-team defense
- The offense struggled early, but Aidan Hutchinson's sack and Chuck Clark's pass breakup were notable.
Drive 5: Third-team offense vs. second-team defense
- The second-team offense faced pressure from Anthony Lucas and Ahmed Hassanein, leading to an intentional grounding.
Drive 6: First-team offense vs. first-team defense
- Goff's 18-yard touchdown pass to Jameson Williams was a highlight, showcasing the offense's ability to capitalize on defensive weaknesses.
Drive 7: Second-team offense vs. second-team defense
- Ahmed Hassanein's pressure and Loren Strickland's tackle were notable defensive plays.
Drive 8: First-team offense vs. first-team defense
- White's relentless pursuit of St. Brown and Alim McNeill's 1-on-1 win against a run stop were impressive.
- Goff's 3-yard touchdown to St. Brown and the successful two-point conversion were crucial.
Drive 9: Third-team offense vs. third-team defense
- The third-team offensive line struggled, facing false starts and a potential sack.
Drive 10: First-team offense vs. first-team defense
- Short passes to St. Brown and TeSlaa provided breathing room, but Hutchinson's sack and the controversial touchdown calls were notable.
Drive 11: Second-team offense vs. first-team defense
- Hutchinson's sack and defensive plays by Barnes and Ya-Sin were standout moments.
Drive 12: First-team offense vs. second-team defense
- The offense's comeback, aided by penalties, resulted in a successful drive ending with a touchdown.
Erick Hunter's performance, particularly in special teams, stands out as a positive development for the Lions' depth chart. His ability to shine against starting-level talent is a promising sign for his future with the team.