Greg Dortch, a new face for the Detroit Lions, just snagged a spot on ESPN’s All-Backup Team. And honestly? This guy is about to be so much more than a backup. This recognition isn’t about second string; it’s about the kind of crucial depth that can truly keep a team afloat, and Dortch is getting league-wide props as a key roster piece.
The Underrated Hands That Won’t Drop a Thing
Look, we all know the Lions have their main stars: Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Aidan Hutchinson, Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph. These are household names. But what about the unsung heroes? The guys who step in and make big contributions when their number is called? That’s where Dortch comes in, and his inclusion on ESPN’s list, specifically highlighted by Bill Barnwell, speaks volumes.
Barnwell called Dortch a “nontraditional player,” pointing out his 5-foot-7 frame. But don’t let that fool you. This guy has been a ridiculously reliable pair of hands out of the slot, dropping just three of his 142 targets over the past four seasons! That’s insane reliability. Last season with the Cardinals, he reeled in 29 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns. When you have a receiver who can consistently catch the ball, especially in crucial slot situations, that’s pure gold for an offense looking to keep drives alive. He’s the type of player who might not headline every highlight reel, but he absolutely makes things happen when it matters.
Dual Threat: The Return Game Edge
Dortch isn’t just a sure-handed slot receiver, though. His value extends big-time to special teams. He’s also expected to be the main returner for the Lions, providing some much-needed depth backing up Chimere Dike on both punt and kick returns. Last season alone, he returned 16 punts for 185 yards, averaging a solid 11.6 yards per return. And his kick return game? That was even more impactful, with 31 returns for 811 yards, an average of 26.2 yards per return. Think about that kind of field position he can set up! Those extra yards on returns can change games, giving the offense a much shorter field and setting up scoring opportunities.
The Lions just added him this offseason, and already he’s being highlighted as an essential component. He’s going to be both a reliable receiver and a key piece in setting up the offense in the return game. He embodies what it means to be a versatile, clutch player that every contender needs.
So, as the Lions gear up for the upcoming season, keep an eye on Greg Dortch. This “All-Backup” is set to make a massive impact, stepping up when called upon and proving that sometimes, the most valuable pieces aren’t always the biggest names. He’s the kind of player who quietly elevates the entire team, and we can’t wait to see him shine.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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