As the Detroit Lions (and their fans) sit back and reflect on the 2018 season that went down the drain quickly, it is crucial to begin looking at how to improve.
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Heading into the 2018 season, many believed the Lions would contend for a playoff spot but it did not take long to realize there were too many holes on the roster to do so.
So, how can the Lions improve before the 2019 season kicks off? What are the biggest ROSTER needs that absolutely MUST be addressed this offseason?
Here are the Lions’ top 6 needs in order.
1. EDGE RUSHER
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Assuming the Lions move on from Ezekiel Ansah, it will be absolutely crucial they add an edge rusher to their team. Whether it be via the draft or free agency, this will clearly be Bob Quinn’s No. 1 priority in regards to the Lions’ roster. With the No. 8 pick in the NFL Draft, Quinn will have some options when the Lions are on the clock.
2. CORNERBACK
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The Detroit Lions have one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL in Darius Slay. After that, they have depth players who should not be starting in the NFL. Adding a solid cover cornerback to the mix could make a world of difference for what was one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. Greedy Williams could be an option at No. 8.
3. TIGHT END
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Like it or not, the Detroit Lions missed Eric Ebron in 2018. Bob Quinn made the decision to move on from the former first-round pick and he paid dearly after not being able to replace him. For Matthew Stafford and the Lions’ offense to really click, a pass-catching tight end absolutely MUST be added to the roster. One free agent possibility, though getting up there in age, is Jared Cook.
NOTE: I would also prefer for Bob Quinn to pull the trigger on a tight end in the draft, there are a few who could turn out to be VERY good NFL players.
T4. OFFENSIVE GUARD
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Like Ezekiel Ansah, I am assuming offensive guard T.J. Lang has played his final game for the Lions. In addition, I am not a huge believer in Tyrell Crosby as our starting right guard heading into the 2019 campaign. Letting Crosby come in off the bench and bringing in a true staring RG could be huge.
T4. WIDE RECEIVER
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After losing Golden Tate (it was the right move to trade him), it was clear the Lions’ offense took a step back. Though Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones are a solid 1-2 punch, Quinn should be keeping his eyes open for the perfect slot receiver. One player I would LOVE him to add in free agency is Buccanneers receiver, Adam Humphries.
6. RUNNING BACK
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You may be surprised to see running back on this list but it certainly belongs. I personally believe LeGarrette Blount has played his last game with the Lions and he will have to be replaced. In addition, Kerryon Johnson, though ultra-talented, showed exactly why I was skeptical of trading up for him when he ended the season on the Reserve-Injured list. He has a chance to be special but only if he can stay on the field.
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