5 big questions for the Detroit Lions in 2022 offseason
2. A quarterback in the first round?
The 2022 draft class lacks sure-fire top-end quarterback prospects, which is ill-timed for the Lions as they look to secure their quarterback of the future (and it’s not Goff, no matter what Campbell says). Their second first-round pick in April’s draft could be a spot to target a quarterback, or their pick in the early second round looks like a solid spot to take a signal caller that falls a bit.
Contract control via a fifth-year option may push the Lions’ decision to take a quarterback late in the first round. But depending on who else is available at that pick, at other positions, the decision to draft or not draft a quarterback in the first round of the 2022 draft will only be unveiled as good or bad with some hindsight.
1. Who will be the new offensive coordinator/play caller?
Coming out of their Week 9 bye this year, Lions head coach Dan Campbell took over offensive play calling. The results have been better, amid further injuries and a general lack of talent. Campbell has cited getting more and more comfortable and finding a groove as a play caller, but that doesn’t mean he should keep the role next season. Anthony Lynn will be one-and-done as Lions offensive coordinator.
It’s an insecure head coach who won’t hire people who can do a specific job better than him, or are a threat to replace him if things go markedly bad. Campbell doesn’t come off as insecure, even as he’s finding his way as a permanent head coach for the first time this year. So nothing should stop him from hiring an offensive coordinator who will take over play calling duties next season.
