How the Detroit Lions can be successful on defense in 2018

This would allow the Lions the freedom to use their first pick in the draft to select one of the few good edge rushers available.

With the draft being heavy at quarterback and many teams trying to position themselves to upgrade the position, that means that either Marcus Davenport of Texas-San Antonio or Harold Landry of Boston College should be available for the Lions.

This also means the Lions can use a middle round pick to still get a quality defensive tackle which is another deep position in the draft. With that addition they will have a player they can develop while still giving themselves more depth.

Meanwhile the selection of Davenport or Landry gives the Lions a young edge rusher to help Ansah pressure opposing passers and most likely replace Ansah after next season.

At that time, Ziggy will be 30-years old and because of his history of injuries especially in the last few seasons, re-signing him would be a risk that the Lions will most likely pass on.

This simple strategy is a win-win for the Lions. They get the help they desperately need on the defensive line, then they can still use their second or third round pick on a running back and the two most polarizing team needs will be addressed with the bonus of adding what should be an elite edge rusher to the mix as well.

Next: The Detroit Lions All-Time Offensive Team

Is the plan perfect? Well no plan is fool proof, but it allows the Lions the opportunity to set the foundation for building a strong defense which can help put them in the championship chase when combined with an elite passing offense that may be able to solve their rushing woes.

All in all this gives the Detroit Lions their best chance to compete in a stacked division next season while still building for years to come.