The Detroit Lions have worked hard to improve their offensive line, but is this group tough enough to succeed where they have failed in the past?
The Detroit Lions have put a tremendous amount of effort into improving their comatose ground game. Starting with their first round selection of center/guard Frank Ragnow in the 2018 NFL Draft. And continuing with the selection of running back Kerryon Johnson in the second.
They also added power back LeGarrette Blount as well as a handful of offensive linemen in free agency, plus getting a steal in the fifth round of the draft with tackle Tyrell Crosby who many experts expected to be selected in the second round.
How well they all work out remains to be seen, but all teams with outstanding rushing attacks either have all-pro running backs or dominant O-line play. If not both.
Anyone who is middle-aged has been around long enough to understand what an elite running back looks like in Detroit.
Back in the 1990’s Barry Sanders excited fans the way few players ever have in the game of football. His ability to find holes where there were none, make defensive stars look downright foolish and to have the majority of those defenders admit that the 5’8″ king of elusiveness struck more fear in their hearts than any other player, pretty much says it all.
The Lions hope that they found a gem in Kerryon Johnson, but understand that no one can be expect to do the things Barry did.
Therefore general manager Bob Quinn and new head coach Matt Patricia have taken the approach that along with adding some talent to the backfield mix, it is imperative that they are able to solidify the offensive line and add depth.
In other words, every running back looks much better when they consistently have holes to run through.