Ernie Sims is the latest Lions' player I'm wondering about.
Not because Sims isn't a good player. He is. Not because he isn't tough nor hardworking nor talented. Not because I look at Ernie Sims and see part of the Lions' problem.
I just wonder how things would have worked out for Sims had he been drafted by another organization.
Would he be a playmaker? Would he be a Pro Bowl-caliber player?
You wonder how many players the Lions' losing culture has hindered down through the years.
For example, what if the Lions had drafted Andre Johnson instead of Charles Rogers with the second overall pick in the 2003 draft? Johnson might be the best receiver in the NFL right now. It's not like he was selected by a winning organization, either. The Texans have mostly struggled. But how would it have gone had he been a Lion. Conversely, how would it have gone for Rogers, who has had persistent trouble away from football, had he been drafted by Houston - or any other organization other than the Lions.
I feel for Sims, who hurt his shoulder in the Lions' loss to the Vikings Sunday. An injury is an injury. It can happen any time to any player on any team. Yet, I can't help but think somewhere else Sims' career might be going better.

Random Thoughts

- Matt Millen is dreadful on Monday Night Football. He adds absolutely nothing. Can't understand ESPN's fascination with him.

- Peyton Manning was beyond incredible Monday on that final drive against the Dolphins. Right now, he is the best quarterback in the league, although Drew Brees is running a close second.

- If Rick Porcello wins 15 games and the Tigers capture the American League Central, how can Porcello not be Rookie of the Year?

- I think one of the most intriguing players in the NHL this season is going to be Marian Gaborik. Seems like he was held back by Jacques Lemaire's system in Minnesota. If healthy, he will have a huge season for the Rangers. Certainly the skill is there in abundance.

My column in Tuesday's Oakland Press about the Tigers http://tinyurl.com/no6fxr