National Football League

Ryan Broyles takes early steps in Detroit Lions' wide receiver race

Published Jun. 8, 2015 2:02 p.m. ET

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Ryan Broyles, a second-round pick in the 2012 NFL draft, could find himself in his first fight for a roster spot this summer. Kyle Meinke of MLive.com estimates there to be five "serious contenders" in the running for three or four spots behind starting wide receivers Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate.

Broyles has stood out so far, according to Meinke's observations from OTA workouts, as he's fully healthy and catching everything thrown his way. Broyles is simplistic when it comes to fulfilling his obligations to the team.

"Just got to make plays, man," Broyles told MLive.com. "All you can do is make plays, and then you leave it in the coaches' hands."

Broyles, who sustained ACL tears in back-to-back seasons (final year at Oklahoma, first year with Lions), claims to be in the best shape of his life, helping his cause in Detroit's position battle at receiver.

"My body feels good," Broyles said, per MLive.com. "I'm in top shape right now, as compared to other years. I can't even compare it to other years."

Through three NFL seasons, Broyles has played only 21 games (six starts), catching 32 passes for 420 yards and two touchdowns. The majority of that production came as a rookie.

(h/t MLive.com)

Photo Credit: Kyle Terada/Contract Photographer