According to a source close to the situation, the Detroit Lions plan to make tight end Tony Scheffler a big part of their offense, not only for this season but for many years beyond.
The addition of Scheffler gives the Lions a potent two-tight end attack that will be used to take pressure off receiver Calvin Johnson. The formation will limit what defenses can do in the middle of the field to shift coverages toward Johnson.
Scheffler will be used as a tight end and as a third receiver -- similar to how the Indianapolis Colts use Dallas Clark.
If the offense clicks like the coaching staff hopes, the Lions are expected to approach Scheffler during the season about signing a long-term deal to stay in Detroit.