Daunte Culpepper Said to Look 'Good'

The Detroit Lions are facing one of the most important decisions in franchise history over the next two weeks. They have to figure out if the first overall pick in the draft should be used on a quarterback, or if someone else is capable of helping rescue the franchise.

The Lions signed Daunte Culpepper last season, hoping he could give them an answer. Instead, he showed up at 292 pounds and was largely ineffective. Evidently, all the talk about drafting a quarterback at the top of the board has motivated the veteran.

Tom Kowalski of MLive.com reports that Culpepper looks to have lost significant weight as he takes part in Lions' workouts. Culpepper won't talk to the media until the team has their minicamp, but other players are making it clear that he looks pretty good.

"He came in this year about 260 (pounds), so he's definitely getting himself in shape and he's just very upbeat and positive. He's a veteran guy who brings that veteran leadership, and it's very noticeable out there," said veteran receiver Bryant Johnson, a free agent signed in the offseason. "He looks good, and I look forward to working with him."

Tackle George Foster, who recently re-signed with the team, said Culpepper is making a statement to his teammates.

"I've only been here about three days, but the biggest thing I can say is that he's leading by example. The guy looks amazing," Foster said. "He looks like he's coming out of college, and that takes dedication in itself. He's been working and he made an impression on me. He means business."

Obviously, minicamp isn't going to win Culpepper the job, but if he's as dedicated as his teammates are saying, this is going to be an interesting storyline to follow as we approach the draft.

If Detroit can be convinced over the next two weeks that Culpepper is capable of taking the lead, they can play hardball with a quarterback they're considering taking first overall.

Of course, all of this could be nothing but an elaborate ruse, designed to get Detroit that leverage. Isn't the draft fun?