{"id":868271,"date":"2026-04-17T09:45:31","date_gmt":"2026-04-17T09:45:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/868271\/"},"modified":"2026-04-17T09:45:31","modified_gmt":"2026-04-17T09:45:31","slug":"why-the-detroit-lions-should-work-out-freddie-mcgee-iii","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/868271\/","title":{"rendered":"Why the Detroit Lions should work out Freddie McGee III?"},"content":{"rendered":"

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The\u00a0Detroit Lions\u00a0have built their recent identity on toughness, resilience, and players who thrive on proving people wrong. That\u2019s exactly why giving\u00a0Freddie McGee III\u00a0a workout isn\u2019t just a feel-good story, it\u2019s a move that aligns with everything the franchise claims to value.<\/p>\n

McGee, a former\u00a0Eastern Michigan Eagles football\u00a0player, made headlines after showing up at the Lions\u2019 facility in Allen Park, determined to earn a shot the only way he knows how, by refusing to be overlooked. His path already mirrors the kind of underdog journey the organization has embraced. He walked on in college. Now, he\u2019s trying to do it again at the highest level.<\/p>\n

What makes this more than just ambition is production. In the Arena Football League, McGee didn\u2019t just compete, he dominated. Recording 14 interceptions and 25 pass breakups in a single season, he established himself as a true ball hawk and earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. Those numbers reflect instincts, timing, and playmaking ability, traits that translate regardless of league.<\/p>\n

For a Lions team that has leaned heavily into a culture of grit under head coach\u00a0Dan Campbell, McGee\u2019s mindset fits the mold. Campbell has consistently emphasized effort, physicality, and mental toughness over pedigree. McGee\u2019s willingness to show up uninvited and bet on himself speaks directly to that philosophy.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s also little downside. A workout costs nothing but time and offers a chance to evaluate whether his AFL success can carry over to the NFL level. At worst, the team confirms what they already believe about their roster. At best, they uncover a hidden contributor with a chip on his shoulder, exactly the kind of player who often outperforms expectations.<\/p>\n

The Lions don\u2019t need to hand McGee a contract. But giving him a legitimate look would reinforce the culture they\u2019ve worked hard to build, one where opportunity is earned through performance and perseverance, not just r\u00e9sum\u00e9s.<\/p>\n

In a league always searching for the next overlooked talent, Freddie McGee III has already done the hardest part: forcing people to pay attention.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com<\/p>\n

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