Rookie Jason Fox prepared to be a patient pro with Lions

Allen Park -- Jason Fox is trying to get used to the fact that he's at the bottom of the offensive line totem pole.

Fox, Detroit's fourth-round pick out of Miami, was working with the third and fourth units this spring and during minicamp. And that's an unusual position for the tackle to be facing.

Fox started as a freshman in college and eventually totaled 47 career starts. Among Miami offensive linemen, only Mike Sullivan (1987-90) and Richard Mercier (1995-96, 1998-99) totaled more, with 48.

The only other Miami players with more starts at any position are safety Ed Reed (48, 1998-2001) and defensive tackle William Joseph (50, 1999-2002).

"They've told me that throughout training camp I'll get reps at both sides," Fox said. "I'm just trying to do whatever I can to help this team. If they want me to play special teams, if they want me to play on the right side, if they want me to play left tackle, I'm going to do whatever it takes to help contribute."

Either way, the Lions are happy to have a young lineman they can mold.

"You need young offensive lineman to develop in your program," Lions offensive line coach George Yarno said. "Jeff (Backus) is almost 33 years old and he's played a lot of football. He's not going to play forever, so somebody that can step in eventually and take his spot when he's done playing -- you've got to groom those guys. You can't just pull one out of your hat."

The Lions have three lineman -- Backus, center Dominic Raiola and tackle Jon Jansen -- with at least 10 years experience.

Fox (6-foot-6, 314 pounds) is being groomed to eventually start at left tackle.

"We have so many guys in that room that have been around this league for a long time and they know what they are talking about," Fox said. "I'm in their hip pocket every time they turn around, asking them questions."



(detnews.com)