5 Burning Detroit Lions Minicamp Questions
The Detroit Lions are facing high expectations leading into the 2023 NFL season.
Viewed as the favorite of the NFC North division, the optimism surrounding the Lions is reaching a fever pitch. However, the team has work to do to prove itself leading up to the regular season.
Coach Dan Campbell is tasked with preparing his team for a pivotal season. It starts in the toughest fashion, with a date with the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
The team begins its mandatory minicamp June 6, following two weeks of organized team activities. It's the latest step in the natural progression of the NFL offseason.
Here are five burning questions ahead of the start of minicamp:
Can the offense get going?
The offense has struggled during its open portions of practice throughout OTAs. The quarterbacks and receivers have struggled to precisely connect on routes.
It's still early, and OTAs is the first time the offense has worked together between the vets and rookies.
Quarterback Jared Goff is a seasoned pro, so the expectation is that the issues will be sorted out rather quickly. Still, increased production can be expected in the coming weeks.
Minicamp will be a pivotal three days for the unit to get rolling. It's among the most talented young groups in the league, but the initial observations haven't been promising.
Is run defense improved?
Much of the attention surrounding Aaron Glenn's defense has been focused on the secondary. However, the run defense is an area worth observing.
Last season, the Lions ranked 29th in the league against the run. The team added depth to the interior with Brodric Martin and Christian Covington, but will that be enough?
Alim McNeill has the makings of a breakout candidate in his third year, and Levi Onwuzurike could help when he returns from injury.
Little of value will be seen of the run defense until the shoulder pads are on in training camp. This group must stay healthy and improve greatly, as it will make a big difference toward Detroit reaching its goals.
What impact will offseason have on Jameson Williams?
Jameson Williams has been the target of criticism during a turbulent offseason. In open portions of practices, he's struggled to be on the same page as Goff.
Last season, he was unable to participate in offseason workouts as he rehabbed an ACL injury. As a result, this year is a chance for him to catch up on lost time and get valuable reps.
He won't be with the team for the first six weeks of the regular season, so it's important for him to get up to speed with the time he has available.
Additionally, the Lions must sort through their options to find his replacement during his suspension. Right now, the likes of Marvin Jones and Josh Reynolds look to be the top candidates.
Can Hutchinson take another leap forward?
Aidan Hutchinson was among the league's best rookie defenders a year ago. He finished with 9.5 sacks and also picked off three passes.
Now, he must continue to grow. He has an immensely high ceiling as evidenced by his athletic ability. Reaching it would vault him into the conversation with the league's best.
If he can avoid the 'sophomore slump' that many players face in their second seasons, he could become a star. He's a difference maker for Detroit's defense, so a good showing from him will cause a ripple effect for his teammates.
Which undrafted free agents will make strong statements?
Each season, members of the Lions' undrafted free agent classes make strong statements. Players from each of the last two UDFA groups have cracked the opening roster, including Jerry Jacobs from 2021 and Demetrius Taylor last season.
There are several strong candidates to make the roster from this year's crop. Running back Mohamed Ibrahim is battling for the third running back spot, while a lack of wide receiver depth could create an opportunity for Chase Cota.
Special teams ability is often times a deciding factor in the final cutdown spots. As a result, several players at skill positions could find their way onto the roster if they display a knack in that role.
