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So far, Lions coaches are tickled with rookie RB Kevin Smith, who not only could start as a rookie from Day One but could be the first-year player who makes the biggest immediate impact. Yes, first-round OT Gosder Cherilus figures to get every chance to start at right tackle, and second-round LB Jordon Dizon will get the same crack to earn the starting “Mike” LB spot. But Smith appears a great fit in the Lions’ new zone-blocking scheme, and with a serious need at the position — only Tatum Bell figures to challenge Smith for a starting role — there are many who feel he could put up very strong numbers as a rookie. New coordinator Jim Colletto figures to run the ball more as he has said he wants better balance in an offense that was way too slanted toward the pass under former coordinator Mike Martz. The biggest adjustments for Smith likely will be third-down duty; whether or not he can learn to catch the ball and pass-protect likely will determine whether the coaches will give him full-time duty or have him split time with Bell or others.
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