DE Kalimba Edwards "I'm Stealing Money"

In a recent article (12/13) in the Detroit News by Terry Foster, Lions Defensive End Kalimba Edwards admits to Foster that his performance this season has been so poor that he has been "stealing money" from the Lions. Actually, I think that Edwards' statements have been one of the few moments of clarity within the Lions organization for quite some time.

Edwards was drafted by the Lions from North Carolina State because of his raw, natural athletic ability and his incredible physique. I think that the Lions were hoping for a "poor man's Julius Peppers" when they chose Edwards four years ago. Instead, they have received an inconsistent performer who I have affectionately dubbed "Kalimba the Ghost", due to his inexplicable ability to completely disappear as a factor in most games. Edwards has flashed incredible potential at times, but has never been completely able to sustain that potential.

Edwards is the quintessential example of a common debate found in baseball, "Tools" versus Performance. Edwards has all of the necessary athletic ability to be a Pro Bowl defensive end and the disruptive pass rushing force the Lions so desperately need. Edwards' performance, as far as I can recall, has never really bore out the lofty expectations that have surrounded him since his arrival. His lone quarterback sack this season (in 13 games) also is strong evidence that Edwards may never develop as a consistent performer.

As much as the scouting and development people within the Lions organization will hate to admit it, the "emperor is wearing no clothes" in regards to Edwards' latent abilities. They have made a colossal mistake by giving Edwards a four year $20 million contract extension this past off season. The Cleveland Browns expressed some interest in signing Edwards, but I believe that it is just as likely that the Lions were bidding against themselves for Edwards' services.

Edwards promises to be more productive for the Lions over their three remaining games. This statement typifies the very nature of the Lions organizational problem. Edwards seems to have forgotten that the season is 16 games and not three. No matter how much Edwards produces in the Lions three remaining games, he has "stolen" from this orgnaization.