New Lions addition won't end up playing a snap for Detroit

The Detroit Lions already have a budding star at the tight end position. For as long as Sam LaPorta is in town, any other tight end will only play for the TE2 spot, especially with a lucrative contract extension looming large.

Then again, with Drew Petzing taking the reins as the new offensive coordinator, adding more bodies to the tight end room made plenty of sense. With him at the helm, the Lions may use 12 and 13 personnel much more often.

Considering that, adding a proven veteran like Tyler Conklin to the mix looked like a no-brainer move. Still, given how fond the team has always been of Brock Wright, plus Jackson Meeks' surge, he might now be the odd man out.

The Detroit Lions might not keep Tyler Conklin after training camp

Jackson Meeks is reportedly turning some heads to the point where veteran safety Kerby Joseph turned to social media to give him a public stamp of approval. While he's listed as a wide receiver, he can also play tight end.

For better or worse, the Lions have always wanted to keep Brock Wright around, even blocking a potential free-agency move years ago. Given his familiarity with the roster and the organization, he should be ahead of Conklin in the pecking order.

Conklin used to be a difference-maker as a pass-catcher, topping 50 receptions per season in four consecutive campaigns with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets. However, he had just seven receptions for 101 yards and no touchdowns in 13 games with the Los Angeles Chargers last season, so he may have lost a step.

He could still make the roster if the team values experience, but not many players get better after turning 31. Conklin's production took a big dive last season despite playing for a team that, at times, seemed to need more weapons in the passing game beyond Ladd McConkey and Oronde Gadsden II.

The Lions can't afford to chase the name on the jersey. After such a disappointing season, they should only look to keep the fittest players who give them a better chance to compete, regardless of their pedigree or previous experience.

If Meeks has been as impressive as advertised, and given that he can also contribute to special teams, perhaps the team should give him the nod over Conklin. Also, they can keep him on the practice squad, so this shouldn't even be the end of the line for him in Motor City.

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This article was originally published on detroitjockcity.com as New Lions addition won't end up playing a snap for Detroit.