4 burning questions we're hoping to get answers to at the start of Lions' OTA's this week

The Detroit Lions are getting back to work at OTA's. Week 1 of OTA's begins for them on Tuesday and there's a lot to keep an eye on. We'll possibly get some answers to some burning questions for the first time. Here's five things that we're looking to get answers on. 

Where is Brian Branch playing?

The assumption has been that Branch will just stay at slot corner, but the Lions actions throughout the offseason have told a different story. This team had a complete overhaul on their cornerback room that saw them bring in Carlton Davis, Amik Robertson, Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw. The latter was working in the slot during rookie mini-camp. 

Where the Lions are still low on players is safety. That might be because they plan to put Branch back in that area. We could get an answer there this week.

Who's getting converted?

There's a small handful of players on this team that could be in different positions in 2024 and this is the place where those conversions could start. Newly signed Parker Hesse has been a tight end in the NFL, but he was an edge rusher at Iowa. Could the Lions be looking to try him on the defensive side of the ball where he was good in college? 

Malcolm Rodriguez is another guy that could be moved to the other side of the ball. The Lions didn't sign a fullback this year and they have always had one in their offense. Rodriguez played there a little bit in 2023, now he could be moving to fullback and special team's ace full time with a side of linebacker when needed. 

Who's the Lions kick returner?

The NFL introduced and brand new kick off format this offseason. They'll be doing the UFL's version to help cut down on injuries and try to help with more returns. The Lions already had trouble with finding a return man, who will they try there this week?

Receiver Maurice Alexander might be the front runner. He's had some good experiences as a return man in the NFL during the preseason and he's worked in this new format before when he was in the XFL. The other to watch is Kaden Davis. He was a very good return man for the Michigan Panthers in the USFL.

It just makes sense that teams would go with a player that's worked in this format before. but keep an eye out for anyone else they try there. 

Where are the rookies at and what are they doing? 

There's a lot of questions involved with this years rookie class. For starters, is Terrion Arnold working with the ones right out of the gate? It makes sense that he would, but we'll see if they work him in slowly. What about Rakestraw? They tried him in the slot at rookie mini-camp, will they keep going that route? 

Where is Giovanni Manu playing? He initially said the Lions wanted him at right guard and then they had him playing tackle at rookie mini-camp. What will they do with everyone on the field? 

Lastly, will Sione Vaki be on defense at all? We know the team loves him at running back and on special teams. Will he play any safety? Also, will we get a glimpse of any fun plays Ben Johnson has worked up for him?