The Detroit Lions have a plethora of team needs for this upcoming offseason, the current state of the roster could determine the direction of the franchise.
When the Detroit Lions hire their new general manager and head coach in the upcoming months, a lot of decisions will be made. Mainly, if the team should continue to build on what they have or to break down the roster for a more traditional rebuild.
Here is a full list of the Lions’ team needs, along with additional notes explaining their situation with each position.
Major Needs
Wide Receiver
It’s already been mentioned multiple times, but Detroit is heading into the offseason with only two wide receivers on the roster. Star wideout Kenny Golladay is in search of a hefty contract as a pending free agent. With the team’s current state and him entering the prime of his career, how many scenarios are there with him in Detroit next year?
Golladay’s running mate, wideout Marvin Jones Jr is in a similar dilemma. If the Lions are on the brink of a rebuild, what’s the incentive to return during the latter of his career?
Another thing to keep in mind, with cap space potentially being tight, would it be smart to pay both players? Even if Detroit decided to contend in 2021, it’s financially hard to bring back both.
We’ll see what ends up happening with slot receiver Danny Amendola, it’s hard imagining mutual interest between him and the team. Just like Jones, he could pursue better opportunities in free agency.
Right Guard
Guards Joe Dahl and Logan Stenberg will both be on the Lions roster next season. There is no reason as to why they shouldn’t be since they are on cheap deals. Whoever is heading this next regime could roll the dice on either one as the starter.
Although, Dahl has reverted to a mere backup, which is nowhere near his 2019 form. Stenberg is a 4th round rookie who has yet to be active for a game. Bringing back guard Oday Abosuhi is possible but unlikely.
The luxury of signing or drafting a premier guard will be present. Detroit’s offensive line already ranks in the top half in the league under the leadership of left tackle Taylor Decker and center Frank Ragnow.
Add in another player of their stature along with up and coming left guard Jonah Jackson, the Lions could have one of the best offensive lines in the NFL for years to come.