When I started writing this article a couple of weeks ago, The Detroit Lions looked to be in dire straights. They were set to lose a ton of players via free agency and the laundry list of needs was virtually endless.
Thankfully, scheduling conflicts allowed this story to get pushed back, and we now have a much clearer picture of the needs in Detroit. The Lions made quite a splash in the early days of free agency; Bringing in some talented guys to fill holes, as well as retaining key players like Louis Delmas and Chris Houston; who were both thought to be on their way out for sure.
Despite the bevy of signings, the Lions still have some glaring needs to fill if they hope to to get back to 2011 form, and avoid another terrible year like last season. So, without further ado; let’s take a look at the Lions 2013 draft needs as we close in on the final month before the draft.
Offensive Tackle: After Jeff Backus announced his unexpected retirement, fellow tackle Gosder Cherilus bolted for greener pastures with the Indianapolis Colts. The Lions already had a hard-enough time protecting Matthew Stafford last year, and now without both of their starting tackles; the position is easily their highest priority in the draft.
Defensive End: Losing Cliff Avril to the Seattle Seahawks was a big loss for the Lions. Yes, they signed Jason Jones to help fill the void left by Avril, but there is a significant decline in production between the two. The only other defensive end currently on the roster is Ronnell Lewis, so clearly this is a big need at this point. It’s completely plausible with the depth of defensive talent available this year, that Detroit could look to draft two defensive ends in April.
Wide Receiver: Production at this position severely drops off after Calvin Johnson. Ryan Broyles didn't impress much when healthy; catching only 22 passes for 310 yard and two touchdowns in 10 games. Plus, I'm pretty positive no one views Nate Burleson as a WR2 option. The Lions need to get themselves a legitimate No. 2 receiver to take pressure off of Johnson and give Stafford more options.
Cornerback: Outside of Houston, none of the young corners currently on the roster stand out as starter-caliber players. The Lions could really benefit from adding a true No. 2 corner that can stay with receivers on the outside, as well as line up against the slot and play zone. Hopefully such a player could eventually be developed into the No. 1 corner on the depth chart.