Detroit Lions Offseason Review
By Jon Dove
The Detroit Lions didn’t have a flashy offseason, but they made some key moves that should help them get back into the playoff hunt.
Matt Patricia was brought in to help change the culture for the Detroit Lions. It’s not that Jim Caldwell did a poor job, but this was a team that just couldn’t get over the hump. The Lions hope that Patricia and some key additions can change their fortunes.
Detroit’s main focus was getting more physical on the offensive side of the ball. They upgraded their offensive line by selecting Frank Ragnow in the 1st round of the 2018 NFL Draft. That pick was followed up by grabbing Tyrell Crosby in the 5th round.
Ragnow figures to be an immediate starter at either guard or center. He’s a physical presence who will help the Lions lackluster running attack.
The ground game added some new ball carriers in Kerryon Johnson and LeGarrette Blount. These are two powerful runners who should be able to break some tackles. Johnson comes with some durability concerns, but when healthy he should be able to produce.
Detroit cut ties with Eric Ebron and replaced him with Luke Willson. This is another move aimed at boosting the run game as Willson doesn’t offer a ton as a pass catcher.
Defensively, Detroit brought in two underrated linebackers in Devon Kenard and Christian Jones. Neither are star players but have enough talent to make an impact.
Kenard is an excellent athlete who can hold up in coverage. Jones is a versatile defender capable of stuffing the run, holding up in coverage and rushing the quarterback. Both players figure to be a major part of the linebacker rotation.
The Lions added some defensive line depth in Da’Shawn Hand. He never lived up to his talent at Alabama, but it’s possible he rounds into form in the NFL.