Detroit Lions: 3 easy offseason roster decisions for the offense

As the Detroit Lions look to bolster their offense this offseason, these three roster decisions should be pretty easy.

The Detroit Lions’ offense was better late in the 2021 season, as Jared Goff found a higher level and the running game stayed on course with multiple backs called upon as the lead guy. The installation of Ben Johnson into a more prominent role, which led to his promotion to offensive coordinator, helped.

But Detroit still finished with the 25th-ranked scoring offense in the league (19.1 points per game), and by total yardage they were 22nd (322.6 yards per game). Looking forward, wide receiver stands out as a big need and there are multiple good options in free agency and the draft to bolster things.

Widening to the offense as a whole, these three roster decisions should be easy for the Lions this offseason.

3 easy roster decisions for the Detroit Lions on offense this offseason

3. Pick up T.J. Hockenson’s fifth-year option

Giving Hockenson a multi-year deal along the line of his market value is an open question for the Lions, even if the reflex is to say “of course they should.” But picking up his fifth-year option for 2023 should be an easy decision, at an estimated $9.3 million.

Hockenson missed the final five games of the season after thumb surgery, but he’s well on track to be ready for the start of offseason work. Upgrading the depth behind him may be on the offseason radar, but keeping one of their best offensive players through at least the full extent of his rookie contract is a no-brainer for the Lions.