Across the league, offensive numbers are slightly down, as NFL defenses have had the slight edge this season statistically, through the first eight weeks of the season.
For the Detroit Lions, their 6-2 start to the 2023 season has placed them in prime position to win the NFC North and to make a run in the NFC playoffs.
After defeating the Las Vegas Raiders, speculation began regarding how general manager Brad Holmes needed to improve the 2023 roster.
After observing how the Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers upgraded their defense, the perception of Detroit's chances of making a deep run in the postseason took a hit after the trade deadline came and went.
"Obviously, Marvin had to step away so we were down a receiver so we had to look to add another one regardless," said general manager Brad Holmes, who surprisingly made an appearance to address the trade after it was announced. "There's a lot of different avenues that you can take, so this is the one that we chose."
The Lions may have felt quite comfortable with their defense, as the young core has made steady improvements this season.
Quarterback Jared Goff credited the defense for keeping Detroit in the contest on Monday Night football.
“Yeah, it was good minus the turnovers," said Goff. "And again, that’s the critical thing. Yeah, we overcame them and our defense was a big part of the reason why, and we scored 26, whatever we ended up scoring, but felt like it should’ve been about 40 or so. But our defense really kept us in that game and played well.”
Supporters reacting online have been underwhelmed with adding a player to replace veteran wideout Marvin Jones.
One supporter wrote, "DPJ is a solid player and giving up just a 6th is a great move. Would have liked a defensive edge instead, but I get not wanting to bring in guys who don't fit the culture."
Others were more frustrated Detroit did not make additions similar to the 49ers and Eagles.
Here is a sample of the reaction online to Peoples-Jones joining Detroit's roster.
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