2015 Detroit Lions Roster Analysis: Defensive End

Jan 4, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Detroit Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah (94) and C.J. Mosley (99) celebrate a sack on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) during the third quarter in the NFC Wild Card Playoff Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The Detroit Lions need a big year from their defensive ends. With the loss of Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, they will need to replace some of their pass rushing element. They are bringing all of their defensive ends back except George Johnson, who had a very surprising season as a speed rushing end with 6 sacks and the 9th highest Pass rushing productivity rating per PFF (10.0 rating). He added a speed element the Lions pass rush has missed since Cliff Avril left in free agency.

Replacing this production will be key for the Lions defense, they need to regain that speed threat and have a couple of options to do so. Besides the hole left by George Johnson the Detroit Lions are in great position at defensive end. They are bringing back both starters and have some solid role players behind them. It’s not the Lions deepest position group, but if they can stay healthy they should be able to at least match last years production.

Next: Ziggy Ansah