Detroit Lions fans, there's finally some hope. For a team that has lost 46 of its past 67 games since 2018, hope is a rare term in Lions' supporters' lingo. Having made the playoffs only three times since 2000, the bar has been set very low. But this offseason Detroit added some key pieces towards enhancing its future prospects.
On offense, veteran wide receiver D.J. Chark looks to rekindle a promising start to his career in Jacksonville on a one-year contract, joined by first-round rookie Jameson Williams (Alabama), and 2021' s breakout sensation Amon-Ra St. Brown. Adding to quarterback Jared Goff's weapons are dynamic running back D'Andre Swift and former first-round tight end T.J. Hockenson. On paper, Detroit has one of the more intriguing pass catching corps in the league.
Defensively, the Lions took the hometown kid, Aidan Hutchinson from Michigan, with the second pick in April's draft to solidify their defensive line. The team allowed the fourth most yards in the NFL last season so, while still a work in progress, there likely should be improvement in 2022.
The schedule makers did Detroit a favor by giving them three home games in the first four weeks and overall, the schedule doesn't look overly daunting. If the defense can take a major step forward, the Lions might not be eliminated from the playoff race as early as fans might be accustomed to over the years.
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