Detroit Lions: Matthew Stafford has his most complete set of weapons

So What About This Year?

It would be stupid for me to try and project possible statistics for the 2020 season. Too many unforeseen variables can and will get in the way. However, looking back at some of the past Lions teams, this offensive lineup (on paper) does look deeper than Stafford typically has had at his disposal.

Despite Hockenson’s potential, the tight end position is as thin as ever behind him (Jesse James was an extreme disappointment last year), but the Lions appear to be well stocked in running backs, receivers, and backs who can catch passes.

There’s a speed back (Swift) and power back (Scarbrough) to help out Kerryon Johnson. They have  receivers for all areas of the field: Golladay and Hall deep, Jones mid-to-deep, Amendola and Allison short, and Cephus with a big question mark, but coming in with some high praise from our top pick.

Since the Lions chose not to upgrade at backup quarterback, this entire proposal starts and finishes with Matthew Stafford staying on the field and in top form. In the past, we’ve seen him do a lot more with a lot less (2016, 2017, last year).

Unfortunately, we’ve also seen him do a lot less with a lot more (2012, 2013). On paper, I’ll agree that heading into the season, this appears to be Stafford’s most complete set of offensive weapons. Not the best or most talented, but top to bottom across skill positions, the most complete.

It’s also worth mentioning that Darrell Bevell is the best offensive coordinator they’ve had in Matthew Stafford’s time. I don’t doubt that his creativity, fresh perspective, and willingness to play to Stafford’s strength was a large part in No. 9’s resurgence a year ago. Let’s hope they can safely get on the field soon and start to live up to all that potential.