2023 NFL Draft Predictions: Detroit Lions Biggest Team Needs

February 21, 2023

2023 NFL Draft outlook, predictions and team needs for the Detroit Lions. Which positions do the need the most help in? Which players might they choose?

The Detroit Lions had low expectations entering the 2022 season. Many expected the team to have a top-five pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, things didn’t go that way.

Detroit started the year losing six of their first seven games. Their only win came in Week 2 against the Washington Commanders. However, things changed in the second half of the season.

Starting in Week 9, the Lions became one of the hottest teams in the NFL. They won eight of their final 10 games, including victories over the Green Bay Packers, New York Giants, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Minnesota Vikings. While Detroit didn’t make the playoffs, they ended the year with a winning record for the first time since 2017.

What Are The Detroit Lions Biggest Needs On Offense?

The Lions have two picks in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The sixth overall pick is from the Los Angeles Rams as part of the Matthew Stafford trade two years ago. Meanwhile, Detroit’s own first-round pick is 18th overall.

While Jared Goff had a solid 2022 season, that shouldn’t stop the Lions from drafting a first-round quarterback this year. One potential target is Anthony Richardson. The former Gator has more upside than any other quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, he likely needs to sit a year and learn from the sidelines.

Detroit can give Richardson that option with Goff on the team. The Lions would let Goff play in 2023 before handing the starting job to Richardson in 2024. Furthermore, the team could release or trade the veteran quarterback next offseason and save over $26 million in salary cap space.

What Are The Detroit Lions Biggest Needs On Defense?

While the Lions had an exciting offense last year, their defense was one of the worst units in the NFL. They gave up 25.1 points per game, the fifth-most in the league. Ideally, Detroit would like to pick one of the top defensive linemen with the sixth overall pick.

However, another option is cornerback. The Lions have several cornerbacks hitting the free agent market next month, including Amani Oruwariye. One potential draft target is Devon Witherspoon. The Illinois cornerback had a career-high three interceptions last year. More importantly, he isn’t afraid to make a tackle.

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