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.
On This Day: Detroit Lions dominate Cowboys in last playoff win
On Jan. 5, 1992, the Detroit Lions got their most recent playoff win over the pre-dynasty run Dallas Cowboys in the NFC DIvisional Round.