Detroit Lions 3 Biggest Needs Heading Into Free Agency
The emphasis turns to the approaching free agency frenzy as the memories of the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine fade into the distance. The Detroit Lions, who came agonizingly close to making their first Super Bowl appearance before losing to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, now have to strengthen their roster in order to compete in the 2024 season. Notwithstanding their nearly unprecedented run, the Lions have recognized certain critical areas that need to be addressed right now if they hope to challenge for the Lombardi Trophy. The Detroit Lions, as they approach free agency, have the following three major needs.
1) Cornerback: A Crucial Defensive Reinforcement
With the additions of Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley before the 2023 season, the Lions attempted but failed to strengthen their secondary. Sutton found it difficult to contain the best receivers on the other squad, and an injury ended Moseley’s season. It’s obvious that the Lions need to acquire a top-tier cornerback in order to improve their defensive toughness. By moving into the No. 2 cornerback spot, Sutton would be able to improve his performance and strengthen the Lions’ pass defense.
2) Offensive Guard: Bolstering the Front Line
The Lions require reinforcement for their offensive line, the unsung heroes of sport. The team has to locate a suitable starting guard in free agency because LG Jonah Jackson is expected to demand a salary that is higher than Detroit can afford. To further ensure the safety and effectiveness of their offensive machinery, the Lions will probably use the draft as a backup plan to add new players to the interior offensive line.
3) EDGE: Amplifying the Pass Rush
While Aidan Hutchinson has been a bright spot for the Lions defense, they still need to find another strong EDGE rusher if they want to improve their pass rush.
There are a number of good players available in the free agency market that could improve Detroit’s defense. Moreover, the draft presents an additional chance to introduce youthful talent into the team, which might turn the Lions’ defensive line into a formidable unit.
The Detroit Lions’ primary aim in free agency is to add a top-tier cornerback to fortify their secondary. This will allow Cameron Sutton to move up to the No. 2 spot, which should greatly enhance their pass defense.
Boosting the Offensive Line: The Lions need to add depth in the draft and acquire a starting-caliber guard in free agency to guarantee their offense has strong protection when it is expected that LG Jonah Jackson will go owing to salary restrictions.
Strengthening the Defensive Edge: The Lions want to improve their pass rush capabilities and add another reliable EDGE rusher to Aidan Hutchinson’s efforts. They plan to do this through both the draft and free agency.
It will be crucial for the Detroit Lions to prioritize filling these three positions when they negotiate free agency and the draft: offensive guard, EDGE, and cornerback.
The things they learnt from their near-miss in the NFC Championship Game are a source of inspiration and a guide for building a team that can win the Super Bowl. The Lions have the chance to bolster their team and make sure they stay competitors in the NFL’s intensely competitive landscape by making wise draft selections and acquisitions.
