Matthew Stafford and rookie wide receiver Kenny Golladay are putting in overtime to find their comfort level with each other.
When Golladay was not happy with his first day of training camp he was smart enough to seek help. He asked Stafford if he could go through a few routes with him.
Mind you, it was hot and humid. The intensity level was high and it was just the first day.
One reason why Stafford is The Franchise is because he went the extra mile for the rookie.
“(He said) whenever you feel like you need something just come to me and I’ve gotcha,’’ said Golladay, the Lions third-round draft pick.
Stafford, who is entering his ninth season, had good words of advice and a way of making Golladay feel like he’s an integral part of the offense.
“It’s a great feeling, you know an older guy like that, a vet, taking me under his wing and helping me a little bit,’’ Golladay said. “What he really said to me was it’s going to come in time, just keep working on it and ‘I’ve gotcha.’’’
Golladay has made several outstanding catches in camp just like the Northern Illinois product did in the spring during OTAs and minicamp.
While there’s a battle for the wide receiver spots after Golden Tate and Marvin Jones Jr., he has put himself in the discussion. Don’t be surprised if he starts the season as the No. 3 guy.
Coach Jim Caldwell said he’s seen steady improvement but wants to see more before he inks Golladay’s name on the 53-man roster.
“He’s got a ways to go yet, but he’s got height (he’s 6-foot-4), he’s got ability, he’s got the drive and work ethic to try and improve each and every day so, we’re excited about where he is now but, this is a time where we’re really going to get an opportunity (to see more),’’ Caldwell said. “We can get a little bit more contact here coming up with pads on and things of that nature.”
Then, of course, the preseason games will be key. Expect Golladay to get plenty of reps while Tate and Jones get plenty of bench time.
Golladay loves the competition in camp.
“I’m just trying to get better every day. That’s all that’s really on my mind, every day getting better and perfecting my craft. Coming to work each and every day trying to learn something new I didn’t know the other day,’’ the 23-year-old Golladay said.
“I’m still a kid at heart, still a kid really, period. Coming out every day is fun, playing football.’’
He said he’s gotten camp advice from many veterans. They mostly sing the same tune.
“Really that it’s just a grind and get as much sleep as possible,’’ Golladay said.
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