LATEST: Three Main Targets For The Lions This Offseason
One year after reaching just their second conference title game ever, the reigning NFC North victors find themselves with minimal gaps to address as they gear up for the 2024 season. Nonetheless, there are inevitably aspects to strengthen during the offseason.
Considering this, here are three actions the Detroit Lions ought to take before training camp kicks off.
Sign a safety
The Lions made significant improvements to their defensive backfield by acquiring seasoned cornerbacks Carlton Davis and Amik Robertson, alongside 2024 draft selections Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. However, there’s still uncertainty surrounding the safety position. The Lions intend to rely on Ifeatu Melifonwu and Kerby Joseph as their starting safeties. Melifonwu showcased his talent with an impressive 85.6 grade from Pro Football Focus in limited playing time last season, while Joseph, a third-round pick in 2022, struggled in his 15 starts, ranking 54th out of 63 safeties in 2023.
Considering Melifonwu and Joseph have a combined NFL experience of only five seasons, it would be wise for the Lions to bring in a veteran for competition and depth.
Sign an edge-rusher
The Lions’ defense in 2024 could greatly benefit from a strong complement to Aidan Hutchinson. Currently, the unit shows promise but lacks certainty. While younger players like James Houston and Josh Pascal are options, their performances have been inconsistent. Houston had an impressive rookie season but struggled in 2023 due to injury, while Pascal has yet to fulfill expectations since being drafted in 2022.
Veterans Marcus Davenport and John Cominsky could also contribute, but they both faced setbacks in recent seasons. Davenport dealt with injuries, and Cominsky’s production was limited despite playing full seasons. Apart from Hutchinson, the Lions lack reliable edge-rushing options, suggesting that some experienced competition could improve their defensive depth.
Sign a veteran WR
The departure of Josh Reynolds in free agency left a gap in the Lions’ wide receiver lineup that remains unfilled. While Amon-Ra St. Brown shines as the standout star, additional support for the unit is needed. Jameson Williams, their first-round pick in 2022, has displayed glimpses of potential impact but has not consistently delivered, tallying just 25 receptions for 395 yards and three touchdowns over two seasons.
Dependence on veterans Kalif Raymond and Donovan Peoples-Jones might not be wise. Raymond, though serviceable as a backup receiver, has amassed 130 receptions for 1,681 yards and five touchdowns over three seasons with Detroit, but he will be 30 at the start of the 2024 season. Peoples-Jones, after an impressive 61-catch season in 2022, saw a significant decline, managing only five receptions for 58 yards in eight games with the Lions last season.
While St. Brown and starting tight end Sam LaPorta provide excellent options in the passing game, the Lions should seek additional reinforcements to ensure that QB Jared Goff has an ample array of targets.