Roundtable: What to Watch For at Lions OTAs
1.) What are you looking forward to learning more about at Lions OTAs this week?
Christian Booher: I’m interested to learn about what defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn has planned for his secondary. Though little will likely be dropped in terms of definitive plans, any nuggets of information will be intriguing.
More specifically, the Lions have a plethora of talent at the safety position. Brian Branch and C.J. Gardner-Johnson are new faces, while Kerby Joseph and Tracy Walker III are returning players. How does Glenn go about deploying all this talent?
This is a question that is likely a long way from being completely answered, but Glenn could provide some information about where he sees these pieces fitting in the Lions’ defensive puzzle.
Vito Chirco: I'm interested in seeing how all the new pieces look, both on offense and defense. And more specifically, I'm looking forward to evaluating how the team's new-look backfield and secondary perform. I want to see how running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs work off each other, as well as defensive backs C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Brian Branch.
I'll also be on the lookout for under-the-radar performers. Will late-round picks Colby Sorsdal and Antoine Green emerge on to the scene and help themselves earn roster spots later in the summer?
I think through watching OTAs, the media members present will also get a gauge of how Ben Johnson plans to deploy Gibbs and fellow new offensive weapon Sam LaPorta. And, they'll also get an idea of how Aaron Glenn intends to utilize Branch and first-round pick Jack Campbell.
So, there's certainly a myriad of items fans and pundits alike will be able to pick up on regarding the Lions through the team's OTAs this week.
2.) Who is Lions' most underrated player?
Booher: I'm going to go with wide receiver Kalif Raymond. He emerged as a reliable option for Jared Goff and the offense with a career season in 2022. This was a pleasant surprise, in addition to his return duties, as he notched a punt return touchdown, too.
With Jameson Williams suspended for the first six games of the season, Raymond is a prime candidate for an increased role in Ben Johnson’s offense. He brings plenty to the table, with his route running and speed.
Amon-Ra St. Brown gets plenty of shine, and Williams will get his due once he’s back in action. However, Raymond’s multi-faceted contributions deserve more praise.
Chirco: I'm going to go with veteran receiver Marvin Jones Jr. He'll have a bigger role in the Lions' offense with fellow receiver Jameson Williams out for the first six games of the season. And, although Jones is now 33 years old, I think he's capable of aptly filling the void on a temporary basis.
He's no longer the player that had three seasons north of 900 receiving yards in his first stint with the Lions (2016-2020). Yet, the belief is he still can be productive in the No. 3 receiver role. I think he can be, while flying under the radar in Detroit in 2023.
3.) Are you concerned about Frank Ragnow's turf toe?
Booher: Given the fact that it has lingered since the 2021 season, in some effect, there’s plenty of reason to be concerned. To his credit, the Pro Bowl center didn’t let it hinder his performance a season ago.
The fear is that the issue will be chronic, and that it could sideline him in 2023. Detroit is at its best when he’s working the line, so his presence in the lineup is pivotal. The Lions have been hampered by injuries up front in each of the last two seasons, so it’s important for them to develop a contingency plan moving forward.
Chirco: Yes, I am concerned. Ragnow has unfortunately battled the injury bug in previous seasons, missing all but four games in 2021. Additionally, turf toe can be a lingering issue that rears its ugly head at the most inopportune times.
The veteran center dealt with the same ailment for the entirety of the 2022 campaign, causing him to sit out one week. He's hoping that the "most severe degree" turf toe -- as he described it -- will subside this upcoming season, but there's no guarantee that it will. As a result, it's hard for me to say that he'll be able to suit up for the duration of the 2023 season. I'll do my best to stay optimistic, but it's certainly a cause for concern headed into Ragnow's sixth season as a pro.
4.) Who will lead Lions in sacks in 2023?
Booher: I think the safe bet is Aidan Hutchinson. With an offseason of improvement, he should ascend to a higher level, after a very encouraging rookie campaign. He demonstrated an understanding of how to counter opponents in rush situations, especially late last season.
If not Hutchinson, keep an eye out for James Houston and Romeo Okwara. Houston was an excellent story last season with his performance, beginning on Thanksgiving. Now, he must take the next step toward being a dominant rusher.
Okwara is a savvy veteran whose 2022 season was limited by an injury. If he remains healthy, he’s a dark horse candidate to be near the top of the Lions’ leaderboard in quarterback takedowns.
Chirco: I'm going to go with EDGE Aidan Hutchinson for a second straight season. I believe he's the real deal, and is a bonafide threat to get to the quarterback every single time he steps on the field. The Michigan product notched 9.5 sacks as a rookie, and I think he'll eclipse double-digit sacks this upcoming season.
5.) What will be a successful season for Lions' offense?
Booher: Given the precedent set last season, I expect the Lions to be in the top five of most offensive categories. This unit is one that should have little trouble picking apart opponents, en route to putting up big points.
Jared Goff revived his perception with a strong finish to the 2022 season. Because of this, he should be held to a higher standard as the Lions contend for the division. If Johnson’s offense struggles in his second year calling the shots, it will be a disappointment.
Chirco: I'm going to go with another top-five finish in both points scored and total yards. With the additions Detroit has made on the offensive side of the ball (i.e. Jahmyr Gibbs and Sam LaPorta), I think it's definitely attainable, too. I do believe that missing Jameson Williams for the first six games will be a significant blow. Yet, with Ben Johnson calling the plays for a second straight season, I remain optimistic that another top-five finish in points and yards is in the cards for Detroit's offense.
