The Detroit Lions had a busy off-season shaping the roster in head coach Matt Patricia's eyes. From signing big-name free agents, including Trey Flowers and C.J. Anderson, to drafting the uber-athletic tight end T.J. Hockensen at No. 8 overall, they are one of the most improved teams in the NFL. But, before they can be competitive, training camp, taking place on July 25th, will be a defining moment for many. Unfortunately, some won't make the cut.

3. Theo Riddick – RB

The Lions, under Patricia, are working to establish the run. With impressive sophomore Kerryon Johnson booked as the starter, C.J. Anderson as his backup, and Zach Zenner re-signed, they appear to have a solid trio in place. Ty Johnson, a sixth-round pick rookie, adds that much more depth.

With four running backs on board, and three about locked in, Theo Riddick's role in Detroit may be dwindling. Though an impressive pass-catching back (285 catches for 2,238 yards, and 63 touchdowns through his career), Riddick hasn't been effective on the ground. He plays more receiver than back. The Lions would save a hefty $3.6 million off of his $4.6 million contract if cut, per Over The Cap.

The six-year veteran has been a popular cut candidate for some time now, due to his inefficiency on the ground (career 3.6 yards per carry) and inability to stay healthy. With the running back room looking as good as it's been in some time, 2019 may be the year to do so.

2. Teez Tabor – CB

A second-round pick in 2017 out of Florida, it's hard to quantify Teez Tabor as anything but a colossal disappointment for the Lions. He's flashed potential in Detroit, but far too often that hasn't converted into production. In turn, his role has dwindled from a promising project to likely cut candidate.

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In two years of play, Tabor has started five games adjacent Darius Slay in 22 appearances. He's tallied a career stat line of 39 total tackles and no pass deflections or interceptions. According to Pro Football Focus, he was targeted 27 times and allowed a reception in all but five, in 2018. They graded him at a putrid 32.2 for the season — amongst the very worst in the NFL.

Releasing Tabor may be premature, considering he has promising qualities. But, the Lions aren't handing a role to him. Talented man coverage corner Rashaan Melvin was added in free agency as well as nickel-back Justin Coleman. In the draft, they found Armani Oruwaryie in the fifth-round — most projected him to go far earlier.

1. Tommylee Lewis – WR

The Lions don't boast an unearthly group of receivers, but it's fairly obvious who the starters will be. Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones, and Danny Amendola will be the trio to enter the season. Jermaine Kearse and Travis Fulgham, a free agent signing and draft pick, respectively, will likely follow suit. This puts five receivers already on the 53-man roster.

Tommylee Lewis — a 5-foot-7 slot receiver that went undrafted in 2016 — has an outsider shot to remain with the Lions after signing in March. He'll have to compete with Andy Jones, Chris Lacy, Jonathan Duhart, Deontez Alexander, and Tom Kennedy for the rare sixth receiver spot — that may not available.

In March, Lewis appeared to have a shot at making the roster as the backup slot to Amendola. But with Kearse taking over that position, and the big-bodied blocking ace Fulgham in-fold, it doesn't appear to be going that way anymore.