Former Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson has some ideas for how his team can best improve itself in the NFL Draft.
During an appearance on the Up & Adams Show, Johnson said he would like the Lions to focus on defense with their draft choices.
Johnson makes a very valid point.
Detroit already has one of the league’s deadliest offenses. It ranked third in the NFL in yards and fifth in points per game this past season.
It was another story defensively, however.
The Lions finished 19th in yards allowed and 23rd in scoring defense in 2023, so they can certainly stand to improve in that area.
Detroit did make some moves in an attempt to bolster its defense this offseason, signing defensive linemen like Marcus Davenport and D.J. Reader while also adding some pieces in the secondary like cornerbacks Amik Robertson and Carlton Davis.
That being said, the Lions could still use some help on that side of the ball, particularly when it comes to their pass rush.
Other than Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit is lacking in guys that can get to opposing quarterbacks. Davenport should aid in solving that problem, but the Lions absolutely need more edge rushers.
Detroit just enjoyed its best season in three decades, as it won its first division title since 1993 and captured its first playoff win since January 1992. The Lions made it all the way to the NFC Championship Game, where they ultimately blew a 24-7 lead against the San Francisco 49ers.
Let’s see if Detroit takes Calvin Johnson’s advice and beefs up defensively starting Thursday night.
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