2 reasons this Detroit Lions rebuild could be different than the others

1. It’s too early to say these are the “same old Lions”

Dan Campbell and his staff have not been without blame. The over-aggressiveness has hurt the Lions. But this is the season to be over-aggressive and see what happens. Nothing to lose.

Poor communication, cornerbacks that have almost no experience, safeties that have been inconsistent, linebacker play that has left a lot to be desired, and a defensive line that has not lived up to its potential yet make stopping opponents really tough.

However, in the midst of all the problems that are so prevalent with these Lions, there are positives that can’t be ignored.

The first is a draft class that has contributed a lot, and in a positive way. Penei Sewell has come down to earth a little over the last two games, but he has played well overall and seems to have a big future as the Lions’ left tackle.

Levi Onwuzurike missed a lot of training camp, but he has shown flashes. Alim McNeill is becoming a staple on the defensive line. Amon-Ra St. Brown is getting better each week. Linebacker Derrick Barnes has plenty to learn, but he is already a heat-seeking missile as the Lions replaced the departed Jamie Collins.

Ifeatu Melifonwu also flashed a little until he was injured. Jermar Jefferson is the only member of the Lions’ rookie draft class who hasn’t played yet. In a season lost to rebuilding, how the rookie class looks is vital.

The second positive is a bigger picture view. The rookie class generally playing well, and general manager Brad Holmes collecting future draft capital provides hope for the future.

The Lions will face the 1-3 Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, with head coach Mike  Zimmer on the hot seat. They should not be taking the Lions lightly.

It is still too early to say whether this rebuild will yield more of the “same old Lions” or lead to a run of being competitive. But if consistent progress is made, win or lose each week, this season will be a valuable first step to quell the constant rebuilding blues.