Tavon Wilson

The 2016 season was Wilson's first in Detroit after spending the first four years of his career with the Patriots. The former second-round draft pick eventually beat out Rafael Bush to secure the Lions' starting strong safety role, and he showcased a pleasantly-surprising display of versatility by lining up in coverage, on the line, and in the slot. That isn't to say Wilson didn't have his bad moments, too, as he struggled from time to time both against the run and the pass. Although Bush bolted for New Orleans in the offseason, the ascending second-year Miles Killebrew waits in the wings and should give Wilson a run for his money in the chase to earn a starting spot in Week 1. Even if Killebrew ultimately wins out, Wilson will likely still see the field often, as Bush logged 500 snaps in a backup role last season.

Wilson signed with the Lions to presumably fill the team’s vacancy at free safety, but fellow free-agent acquiree Rafael Bush appears to have won that job. Subsequently, Wilson will be relegated to a role in nickel packages and likely won’t see enough playing time to flash any IDP appeal.

With Devin McCourty and Patrick Chung set to start at safty for the Patriots, Wilson -- a 2012 second-rounder, who recorded 22 tackles last season, will look to stick around as in a reserve/special teams role.

Provides the Patriots with depth at free safety, but no lock to secure a big role after recording just three tackles last season, his second as a pro.

Wilson, considered by most a major second-round reach in 2012, played both corner and safety in college, given him the sort of versatility the Patriots covet. He'll begin the 2013 season as a reserve. As a rookie, he racked up 41 tackles, including 10 in Week 5, when he drew a spot start. He's one to watch if injuries hit the New England secondary.

The Patriots selected Wilson in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, 48th overall, which was viewed by many as a reach. Still, he's penciled in as the team's backup strong safety behind the productive (when healthy) Patrick Chung.