Just when you thought an already immensely talented Detroit Lions roster couldn't get any better than it was in 2023, when the team went 12-5 and made it all the way to the NFC Championship Game, general manager Brad Holmes said hold my proverbial beer.
Holmes shored up several positions of need this offseason, some of which were created by departing players. And, in some cases, the Lions actually upgraded instead of just filling.
For their efforts, the Lions were given the top offseason grade in the NFL by the Sporting News' Vinnie Iyer, who gave Detroit an "A", which was tied for the best mark in the league. Here's his thoughts:
Key additions: RG Kevin Zeitler, EDGE Marcus Davenport, DT D.J. Reader, CB Carlton Davis, CB Terrion Arnold, CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
The Lions have been so good overhauling their team through free agency and the draft the past few offseasons with GM Brad Holmes that they could focus on tinkering with the remaining holes. Zeitler helps replace Jonah Jackson, while Davenport can uncork some upside up front playing off the run-stuffing reader and star Aidan Hutchinson. Arnold and Davis are much better cornerback options and Rakestraw also can end up playing a vital playmaking role.
As Iyer notes, the Lions upgraded at one of their biggest positions of need, which was cornerback. Carlton Davis presents an upgrade over Cameron Sutton, and Terrion Arnold is projected to be better than Jerry Jacobs.
Detroit lost one member of its elite offensive line in Jonah Jackson, yet the Lions were able to upgrade there, too, with the signing of Pro Bowler Kevin Zeitler. On defense, Marcus Davenport and D.J. Reader also have the potential to provide more than their predecessors if they can stay healthy.
One position that was left without a major addition was wide receiver, where the Lions lost Josh Reynolds. However, the hope is that Jameson Williams and Kalif Raymond can step into bigger roles to help cover the void in a passing attack that already features Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta.
All in all, there's no question this was a successful offseason for Holmes and the Lions. Now, we'll see if all that is enough to put them over the top for a Super Bowl.
