The Detroit Lions enjoyed an outstanding 2023 campaign, exceeding most expectations to reach the last four, only to narrowly lose to the San Francisco 49ers by three (34-31). A late touchdown from Jameson Williams could not trigger a final push to reach the Superbowl but nevertheless, The Lions can look back on the past season with lots of positivity and try to build on that success this season. The aim will of course be to go one step further and reach, and hopefully, win the Superbowl.
Who was drafted?
The NFL draft is one of the most highly anticipated events in American Football and the Lions drafted cornerback Terrion Arnold as their 24th pick. Arnold boasts height and tenacity in the tackle and is best deployed in the press. Many experts believe that Arnold was a steal for Detroit, who joins fellow Alabama graduate Brian Branch in the Lions defensive ranks.Â
Continuing the cornerback theme, Detroit further bolstered their defensive roster with the selection of Ennis Rakestraw Jnr. as the 61st pick. The selection of two cornerbacks in the first two picks could be seen as a smart move by Detroit since the league contains a plethora of quality wide receivers. The CB from Missouri will hope to strengthen a Lions backline that struggled for much of the 2023 campaign. An average of 247.4 yards were conceded per game, ranking Detroit as the 27th worst team in this category.Â
If Brad Holmes’ charges want to realize their ambitions of lifting the Superbowl, where they rank high on NFL betting markets, defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn will need to work hard with Arnold and Rakestraw Jnr to tighten up the defensive line.
Stay on the front foot
While the Lions’ defense struggled in the 2023 season, there was not much wrong with the offensive side of their game. Jared Goff led a hugely effective offensive force that ranked high in rushing and passing statistics. Goff’s passing game was a particular highlight with a 64.1% red zone touchdown rate the 3rd best in the NFL. This shot up to 81.8% in the play-offs.Â
However, although boasting one of the best offenses in the NFL, there is still some suggestion that the offense needs to be further improved. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta will be expected to rack up the yards once again. Likewise, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery on the rush. One player that could take the Lions offensive game to another level is Jameson Williams. The wide receiver played a bit part last season, posting 354 yards, but more is expected from the Alabama All-American in his third season with Detroit.
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