2. Can Detroit Lions add pass catchers?
The Detroit Lions have an offensive line that they can trust, and should be bringing their entire group back. They did not have Taylor Decker early and then lost Frank Ragnow, so the group that they invested in has not been able to flex its muscle yet.
You would assume if they run back a healthy offensive line that they could lean on their two-headed running back punch. DeAndre Swift had a strong first two seasons, but his stats through two years compare favorably to Reggie Bush.
| Rush | Rush | Rush | Rush | Rece | Rece | Rece | Rece | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rk | Player | From | To | Att | Yds | TD | Y/A | Rec | Yds | TD | Y/R |
| 1 | Reggie Bush | 2006 | 2007 | 312 | 1146 | 10 | 3.7 | 161 | 1159 | 4 | 7.2 |
| 2 | D’Andre Swift | 2020 | 2021 | 265 | 1138 | 13 | 4.3 | 108 | 809 | 4 | 7.5 |
That is not a huge issue as Bush is dynamic but it does speak to his big-play ability and strength in the passing game compared to his lack of ability to bring between the tackles. However, that is what Jamaal Williams is for, and when healthy he served his role.
T.J. Hockensen has locked similar to a long time tight end Todd Heap, and they should be set at tight end, which leaves them with a huge need at wide receivers.
| Rece | Rece | Rece | Rece | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rk | Player | From | To | AV | G | Rec | Yds | TD | Y/R |
| 1 | Todd Heap | 2001 | 2002 | 9 | 28 | 84 | 1042 | 7 | 12.4 |
| 2 | T.J. Hockenson | 2019 | 2020 | 9 | 28 | 99 | 1090 | 8 | 11.0 |
On paper, Quintez Cephus could be a fourth or fifth wideout who serves as depth. The Detroit Lions found a gem in Amon-Ra St. Brown in round four.
St. Brown does not have burner speed, but is tough and physical and knows how to get open. His playing style and statistical profile resemble Jarvis Landry through his rookie season.
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So, they have a shifty slot, a two-headed-back, and a reliable tight end. They need speed on the outside in the worst way. They could also use a big body on the outside that could keep the third-down targets away from being so obvious.
It is a big need, but it is easier to find skill players than linemen, and with the other players on the roster, the Lions should have a great idea what type of skill players they need to add this offseason.