Detroit Lions Off-Season Preview

Detroit (0-16 No Playoffs)

Current Situation: The Lions were the first team in 32 years to pull off a winless season. Detroit had the league's worst defense and converted only 29% of third downs. GM Matt Millen was fired, essentially the entire coaching staff was replaced and 6 veterans have been released. New coach Jim Schwartz has big name coordinators Scott Linehan and Gunther Cunningham on his staff and can look to rebuild slowly, as long as there isn't another winless season.

Advice:
- Only draft a QB if they really believe in him. They should not draft Stafford with the #1 overall pick just because he's the best QB prospect in the class. Next year's class is much stronger, and if they don't feel that their guy is in this draft, they should wait.
- With so many needs, look to shop the #1 overall pick. They could use as many young starters as possible.
- They need help essentially everywhere. They should draft the best player available at every pick rather than targeting specific positions.
- They have to find a stud MLB and a SLB to bolster the worst run defense in the NFL.
- If they don't draft a QB, pick up a free agent to add to the mix in training camp.
- Detroit needs DT Corey Redding to move back to under tackle, where he was more effective. To do so, Detroit needs to find a big body to assume the nose position, take double teams and stuff the run.
- They need two starting caliber CBs after Leigh Bodden was released. Travis Fisher is decent, but he is just about the only serviceable CB on the roster.
- DE Cliff Avril is a nice player, but will need additional pass rushers around him to take the pressure off. They need to get better pressure.
- LT Jeff Backus is losing mobility and would welcome a move inside to OG at this point in his career. They should look to find their LT of the future.
- John Standleford is starting opposite Calvin Johnson. With so many other needs, WR may be a bit of an afterthought, but they should try to pick up a free agent or two to pair with Johnson.
- They could also improve on Special Teams and a return guy would be nice.
- A team can be bad, as long as it is young. They should look to get as young as possible, with several veteran role players providing leadership.