The Detroit Lions’ plan at tight end did not pan out in 2021.
Under new head coach and former tight end Dan Campbell, there was optimism about T.J. Hockenson repeating his Pro Bowl year, perhaps taking the next step into elite territory. Former New Orleans Saint Josh Hill was expected to be the reliable veteran blocker. Add in Hunter Bryant as a player on the rise, and the tight end group looked decent.
Unfortunately, everything went poorly. Josh Hill retired before the season, and his replacement Darren Fells requested his release a few months into the campaign.