Quick Read: The Lions sign Greg Dortch (WR) and Damone Clark (LB)

Information sourced from: Pro Football Reference, RAS, PFF

The Lions aren’t done yet. This afternoon word from multiple sources showed that they had signed Wide Receiver Greg Dortch and Linebacker Damone Clark. Contract details are not yet known for either player. However, both are quality depth signings, so let’s dive right in!

Greg Dortch - Wide Receiver

Greg Dortch went undrafted in 2019 coming out of Wake Forest. While he is not a speedster in the traditional sense of the word, he appears to be quick and agile. Given that he is coming from the Arizona Cardinals, he is a good fit given his familiarity with Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing. Furthermore a look at his stats tell a good story (per Pro Football Reference):

These types of numbers look very familiar. Let’s take a peek at recently departed wide receiver Kalif Raymond’s numbers:

It’s quite simple to see that there is a hope Dortch can replace the production that Raymond brought. While I originally thought this may have been Tom Kennedy’s role, he will have to fight in camp to show he is a step above Dortch. I don’t know what to make of Dortch quite yet, but Petzing knows him and knows what he does well. Here’s hoping he can slot right in.

Damone Clark - Linebacker

From the minute I heard about this signing, I flashed back to the 2022 Draft. Damone Clark was drafted in the 5th round of the 2022 NFL Draft. I was reminded by friend Groot the Dutch (who I have spent most drafts with) about his superior athletic profile and how he was a value pick. After consulting RAS I found that he carried a 9.87 RAS, which makes him 33rd out of 2406 linebackers in the RAS database which is compiled of players from 1987 until current day. This is impressive from a purely athleticism standpoint.

The stats tell a different story (per Pro Football Reference):

While he has not had a stellar career from a statistical standpoint, he does have experience. For a depth Linebacker with high upside who is still only 25, I am good with this signing. He will have to fight for his spot, but perhaps this coaching staff can get more out of him than Dallas or Houston were able to.