With new general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell at the helm, there is hope that the Lions can turn things around after a disappointing 2020 season.
One of the biggest questions facing the Lions heading into the draft is what they will do at the quarterback position. Jared Goff was acquired from the Los Angeles Rams in the Matthew Stafford trade, but there are still concerns about his ability to lead the Lions to success.
Holmes addressed these concerns in a recent press conference, stating that Goff will be the Lions’ quarterback in the future while also indicating that the team is open to potentially drafting a backup in the mid to late rounds in the 2023 NFL draft.
While quarterback is an important position, the Lions have a number of other needs that they must address in the draft as well. At the top of the list is the defense, which struggled mightily last season and was one of the worst units in the league.
With the sixth overall pick in the draft, the Lions have an opportunity to add a game-changing defensive player who can make an immediate impact. There are several top defensive prospects who could be available at that spot, including Myles Murphy, Brian Bressee, Jalen Carter, and Joey Porter Jr.
Host Mike Kimber from Lions Talk by Chat Sports recently gave his thoughts on the draft, emphasizing the need for the Lions to focus on defense.
“The Lions definitely need to go defense with their first pick,” Kimber said. “They have so many holes on that side of the ball, and with the young guns coming out, there’s no excuse.”
Kimber also noted that the Lions should look to draft a safety or linebacker in the later rounds, as those positions are also areas of need for the team.
Of course, drafting well is just one part of the equation for the Lions. They will also need to develop the players they select and build a strong team culture in order to turn their fortunes around.
This is where Campbell comes in. The former Saints assistant coach has preached a tough, physical style of football since taking over as head coach, and he has already won over some fans with his passionate press conferences and interviews.
Campbell has also made several notable hires to his coaching staff, including former NFL head coaches Anthony Lynn and Dom Capers. These moves, along with the draft and free agency, will be key in determining the Lions’ success in the coming seasons.
Overall, the Lions have a lot of work to do if they hope to compete in the tough NFC North division. But with a new regime in place and a number of young players with potential, there is reason for hope among loyal Lions fans.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Lions to see how they approach their selections and whether they can find the pieces they need to lay the foundation for future success.
