Feb. 26, 2008

Updated at 9:05 p.m. EST Thursday, Feb. 28

The team has not been in a hurry, unlike other clubs, to release some of its dead weight, but there will be some fat trimming. Though head coach Rod ­Marinelli downplayed talk that DT Shaun Rogers would be part of the purge, published reports suggest that the Lions are willing to listen to offers for Rogers and could deal him for draft booty. CB Fernando Bryant was cut early in the week, leaving the team dangerously thin at corner. With Travis Fisher and Keith Smith due to hit free agency, the team would have only one veteran corner: RFA Stanley Wilson, who has been inconsistent. The team did improve its depth at safety with the signing of ex-Viking Dwight Smith before the start of free agency. Another area of need is running back, where T.J. Duckett could figure into a more run-heavy scheme, but Kevin Jones’ health is a major concern. Duckett and Tatum Bell are free agents, but only Duckett would figure in the team’s plans. The Lions also might need a right tackle if Damien Woody tests the market, as expected, and leaves. The LB depth will be tested, especially if Teddy Lehman and Boss Bailey walk. The team has already brought in LB Al Wilson for a visit and almost certainly will add to the unit through free agency and the draft. There’s a lot of work to do, but the good news is that the team is in good cap shape and will be even better with a few contracts deleted.