Tight end Jesse James believes he wasn't used correctly in Pittsburgh and thinks he is in a better situation after signing with the Detroit Lions last week.
“I had some success in Pittsburgh, but I think it could have been better,” James told local Detroit reporters: “Offensively I wasn’t used the way I feel like I could be used. I feel like my ceiling [in Detroit] is much higher than it was in the past.”
The 24-year-old tight end gained 423 yards on 30 receptions while splitting reps with Vance McDonald last year -- not far off what Detroit's tight ends combined for in 2018 (45 receptions, 461 yards, four touchdowns). But that hasn't deterred James' belief that he can be a major target for quarterback Matthew Stafford.
“I can be used more in situational-type plays, down in the red zone,” James said. “I’m looking forward to having that challenge of being in there on third down and helping the offense succeed in those kind of pressure moments.
“I think my role here can be greater [than in Pittsburgh] and I’ll be able to do more things,” James added: “My game has grown every year. I know from what I was last year I’m going to be a better player this year.”
James' ability to block could help him see targets in the redzone and rushing downs particularly. As the Lions switch to a more run-focused attack, the ability to implement some play-action could help get James on the ball.
James recorded 1,189 yards, 120 catches and nine touchdowns across his first four years in the year. After signing a new four year, $25 million contract last week, it's safe to say offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell will plan to increase those numbers over the 6'7" tight end's next four years.
COVER PHOTO: USA Today
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