4 Breakout Candidates for Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are facing an unprecedented level of expectations heading into the 2023 season.
They're the consensus favorites in the NFC North. On the heels of an 8-2 finish down the stretch last year, optimism is brewing among national pundits.
There's plenty of established talent on the roster, such as wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. In his first two years, the wideout has earned his place among the best in the league.
However, each season brings new standouts. As a result, the Lions will likely be sparked by players who record their career-best campaigns in 2023.
With that said, here are four breakout candidates for Detroit in 2023.
WR Jameson Williams
Williams will miss the first six games of the 2023 season, after violating the league's anti-gambling policy. When he returns, the Lions will have a potentially game-breaking talent.
Last season, fans got a taste of the potential he offers. His only catch was a 41-yard touchdown, and he took a handoff 40 yards against Chicago late in the year.
Now that he's back to full health, the Lions will be able to use him freely within the offense. He brings a dynamic that Detroit hasn't had in years past.
The second-year wideout will be used as a receiver and runner, as creative offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will scheme unique ways to get the ball in his hands.
His suspension hurts some of the excitement regarding his upcoming season, but nonetheless, he will be a weapon for the offense when he returns.
TE Brock Wright
The Lions' run-first offense opens up the play-action passing game. With a determination to run the ball, Detroit will often be able to utilize short passes to keep the chains moving.
Look no further than Wright as evidence. He showed promise during the second half of the season. After the T.J. Hockenson trade, he took on a much bigger role as both a blocker and receiver.
His ability to block is his best asset, yet he's skilled as a receiver. He rattled off a 51-yard game-winner against the Jets last year, and could provide more of the same in 2023.
The Lions drafted Sam LaPorta in the second round of this past April's draft, but their commitment to two-tight end personnel will give Wright plenty of opportunities.
His impact as a blocker won't always be seen in the stat sheet. Yet, he has the opportunity to be a massive part of Detroit's offense in 2023.
Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright
© Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
DT Alim McNeill
McNeill has shown flashes of becoming a rock-solid defender throughout his three professional seasons. In his fourth, he'll be a leader of the defensive interior.
Detroit was quiet in its pursuits of upgrading this position. Isaiah Buggs was re-signed and Brodric Martin was drafted, but there's been little else on that front.
As a result, McNeill will bear much of the load up front. He performs well playing in both the A-gap and B-gap, and has shown skills as a pass-rusher.
The Lions will need McNeill to take a step forward in order for the unit to be better against the run. This could be the key for Detroit to become a true contender.
CB Emmanuel Moseley
A strong start to the 2022 season was derailed by a season-ending ACL injury in Week 5.
If he stays healthy in 2023, he could have a big year for his new team. Health is the big factor here, as he has played just one full season in five years.
As long as he's on the field, he'll have every opportunity to start and make an impact for Detroit's defense. He has a knack for finding the ball, as he has recorded 33 passes defensed in his career.
Moseley has 35 starts under his belt, and brings a veteran savvy to his new team. He has the potential to make a major impact on a secondary that was among the league's worst in 2022.
As long as he remains off of the injury report, he has the potential to be among the best offseason additions.
