Returning Lions Who Have Big Impact Potential
While many supporters will be focused on the performance of the rookie draft class at OTAs, several returning Detroit Lions have the potential to play at a high level and impact the outcomes of games.
The expectation for several second-year players to elevate their games has many believing that the Lions could make a serious run at winning the NFC North division and winning playoff games.
Let's explore several players who can have a major impact on the success of the Lions in 2023.
Alim McNeill
In 2022, McNeill recorded 41 tackles, six tackles for loss, seven quarterback hits and one sack.
The 23-year-old dedicated himself to becoming leaner and more flexible during the offseason.
The expectation is that the talented defensive lineman will continue his development and consistently work to control and reset the line of scrimmage, aiding the EDGE rushers in getting after the quarterback and limiting opposing running backs.
Aidan Hutchinson
A big year is expected for the second-year EDGE rusher. After a solid offseason workout regimen, Hutchinson is expected to earn double-digit sacks in 2023.
The ability of Hutchinson taking over games by winning battles against opposing linemen should give defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn plenty of reason to have confidence in the revamped defensive line.
The former No. 2 overall pick even showcased ball-hawking abilities, earning three interceptions last season.
With anticipated improvements, Hutchinson should find himself adding to his career interception total.
Josh Paschal
After battling injuries his rookie season, Paschal recorded two sacks against the Chicago Bears in Week 17.
While many clamored for Detroit to do more along the defensive line this offseason, Paschal's potential to improve against the run and develop his pass-rush skills gave the coaching staff confidence heading into his second NFL season.
If Paschal can remain healthy, his impact will be felt.
James Mitchell
While rookie Sam LaPorta is drawing a certain level of attention, the second-year tight end showcased solid potential his rookie season.
Detroit's tight ends room set a team record for touchdowns last season.
With Mitchell's size and pass-catching abilities, he should become a reliable target for quarterback Jared Goff in 2023.
What is also appealing is Mitchell's ability to secure yards after the catch, which can be further developed during his sophomore season.
Jerry Jacobs
Jacobs is a vastly underrated defensive back. When it comes time to draw up Detroit's depth chart when the season begins, there is a very strong chance that Jacobs earns a starting role in the secondary.
His competitiveness and motivation should see him in strong competition to play on the opposite side of Cam Sutton.
If Jacobs is moved inside or has more of a versatile role, Detroit's secondary will see the benefits of a player motivated to compete and perform at a very high level.
Kalif Raymond
Raymond was on the receiving end of a couple of deep receptions, and continues to showcase his veteran leadership, given his special teams role.
According to the Lions' team website, "He caught 47 passes last year for 616 yards. Some of those were key third-down grabs in close wins for the Lions down the stretch. Not to mention his 13.2 average yards per punt return was tops in the NFL, and he was one of only three players to return a punt for a touchdown last season."
With Jameson Williams missing action, Raymond will be in the mix to earn increased targets and receptions the first six games of the regular season.
Amon-Ra St. Brown
No question, St. Brown is the team's No. 1 wideout. After coming close to earning a playoff spot, a player with a strong mindset should use the failure of not securing a playoff berth as added motivation to succeed this season.
St. Brown will be utilized heavily in the passing attack, as Goff has developed a strong connection with the slot receiver.
An opportunity to secure more deep passes thrown his way could see the offense's big-play potential take new shape.
