Corey Williams News

The Lions' blew an opportunity for a teachable moment by shielding Fairley, 24, and Young, 22, from the media Tuesday.

The latest embarrassment is on Nick Fairley, all on Nick Fairley. No rationalizing, no deflecting.

Nick Fairley, a local football star and NFL player, was arrested early Sunday morning for driving under the influence and attempting to elude police.

The Detroit Lions are looking to do more than show up to the playoffs in 2012. To that end, there are several players who need to contribute more than last year.

Stephen Tulloch #55 of the Detroit Lions celebrates a first quarter touchdown with teammates DeAndre Levy #54 and Corey Williams #99 while playing the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on December 11, 2011.

Detroit placed its franchise tag on Cliff Avril, but the defensive end hasn't signed it.

If the Detroit Lions are going to become a Super Bowl contender, second-year defensive tackle Nick Fairley will need to step up this season.

The Detroit Lions may fit this description perfectly next season. Most of their offseason has been concerned with bringing their players on board long term, and there have been few, if any, major changes to the team.

Detroit Lions defensive end Cliff Avril is getting a first-hand look at how his team handles the business side of football, and for better or worse, he said negotiations serve as a lesson for his teammates.