Notes: Giovanni Manu channelling frustrating offseason into motivation

Giovanni Manu is channeling frustration from Detroit Lions roster moves into motivation as he enters his third season. Selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the developmental offensive tackle had been expected to climb the depth chart, but free agency and the draft changed his outlook. Detroit signed offensive tackle Larry Borom and used a first-round pick on Blake Miller, leaving Manu positioned as roughly OT4 behind Penei Sewell. Before spring practices ended, Justin Rogers of Detroit Football Network spoke with the 25-year-old, who said he would not “sugarcoat” his reaction and described being frustrated enough to reflect on how it could affect his future. Manu also sought guidance from former Pro Bowler LeCharles Bentley. He has begun seeing reps at guard and indicated he does not believe his NFL path is predetermined.