Last year was undoubtedly the best season the Detroit Lions have had in a very long time and one of their best seasons ever. Last season, the Lions hosted a home playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams after winning the NFC North. The Lions won their first playoff game in more than 30 years, and they went on to defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their next home playoff game. They had a fantastic season, greatly aided by the players Detroit selected in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Brad Holmes and the Lions faced criticism for some of their picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, notably Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta, drafted early on. However, Holmes silenced doubters as both rookies emerged as standout performers, ranking among the top rookies league-wide. Their stellar performances underscored Holmes’ acumen as a GM, pivotal to the Lions’ success last season and their future prospects.
The impact of these rookies extended beyond the regular season, as they showcased remarkable composure and effectiveness in the playoffs. Despite their lack of experience on such a grand stage, they rose to the occasion, playing vital roles in Detroit’s postseason journey. Their ability to excel under pressure highlighted their maturity and the depth of talent within the Lions’ young core, boding well for the team’s future endeavors.
After impressive victories over the Rams and the Buccaneers, the Lions stood on the brink of a Super Bowl berth, facing the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game. Detroit surged ahead in the first half, commanding a 17-point lead by the third quarter. However, their fortunes took a turn when the 49ers capitalized on a touchdown, swiftly followed by a Detroit fumble, erasing the Lions’ lead.
Despite a valiant effort, the Lions couldn’t recover as the 49ers seized control and secured their spot in the Super Bowl. While the loss marked a disappointing end to an otherwise promising season, it highlighted the resilience and potential of the Lions’ young roster. With their future looking bright, Detroit remains poised for continued success in the seasons ahead.
It’s been a long time coming for Lions fans, who eagerly awaited a season like the one they witnessed. The success of the team brought much-needed positivity to the city of Detroit. With a deep playoff run under their belt, the Lions appear well-positioned for future success, sparking optimism among fans.
However, the ultimate goal remains elusive: bringing a Super Bowl trophy to Detroit for the first time in franchise history. While last season’s achievements were significant, the next step for the Lions is to overcome that final hurdle and secure championship glory.
The impact of the rookie class was undeniable, and now the focus shifts to the incoming batch of youngsters from the 2024 NFL Draft. The overwhelming support from Lions fans during the draft, breaking attendance records, underscores the fervent passion they have for their team. Excitement mounts as fans eagerly anticipate the performance of the new rookies, following Brad Holmes’ previous draft success.
Looking ahead, the Lions must also consider bolstering their roster through free agency. Here are three players that could be potential targets for the team as they continue their quest for NFL supremacy.
Hunter Renfrow, WR
Hunter Renfrow could indeed be a valuable addition to the Lions’ receiving corps in free agency. This might be an opportune moment to pursue Renfrow, as his numbers have tapered off since his breakout season in 2021. During that remarkable year, Renfrow recorded impressive stats, hauling in 103 receptions for 1,038 yards and nine touchdowns.
However, Renfrow’s production dipped in the subsequent season, primarily due to his limited appearances. Playing in just 10 games in 2022, compared to 17 games the previous year, naturally impacted his statistics, resulting in 36 receptions for 330 yards and two touchdowns.
Given Renfrow’s potential and the potential for a favorable deal due to his recent performance, he could provide the Lions with a reliable receiving option to bolster their offensive arsenal.
Hunter Renfrow returned to playing on a full-time basis in 2023, participating in 17 games, although he had a quiet year overall. This previous season, he had 25 receptions for 255 yards and no touchdowns in the end.
Hunter Renfrow has the ability to have another successful season, and if he is in the correct scheme, that might actually happen. He might be a huge pickup for the Lions if they can sign him at a reasonable price.
Quandre Diggs, S
The secondary was one area where the Lions struggled the previous season, but they have done a tremendous job of strengthening that unit thus far this offseason. It wouldn’t hurt to acquire a few more, and Quandre Diggs, a free agent who is quite familiar with the Lions, is one. Before joining the Seattle Seahawks, Quandre Diggs spent five seasons as a player for the Detroit Lions. This NFL season, he has been fantastic.
Quandre Diggs recorded his highest number of total tackles (95) during the previous season. Despite not having any interceptions, he was noticeable on the field. The Lions may consider bringing Quandre Diggs back to the team.
Shaq Lawson, EDGE
Shaq Lawson is another player on whom the Lions could be able to negotiate a nice deal, which would provide them with some valuable defensive line support. Shaq Lawson has played for the Buffalo Bills for the most of his career. From 2020 to 2022, he enjoyed several successful seasons before declining a little bit in the previous campaign.
In 2020 and 2022, Shaw Lawson recorded over 30 tackles and three sacks; however, in the previous season, he only managed 13 tackles and one sack. Shaq Lawson has a great chance to have a few more successful seasons.
Leave a Reply