The Detroit Lions are one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the National Football League (NFL). After a rebuilding process that started in 2020, the Lions are looking to compete again for the first time in years. The 2023 season could be a turning point for this franchise, and fans are eagerly anticipating the team's projected depth chart. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Lions' projected depth chart for the 2023 NFL season.
Offense
Quarterback
Matthew Stafford was the Lions' quarterback for over a decade, but he was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 2021. His replacement, Jared Goff, is expected to be the starter in 2023. Goff has shown flashes of brilliance in his career, but he will need to be more consistent if he wants to lead the Lions to the playoffs. Behind Goff, the Lions have David Blough and Tim Boyle, both of whom have limited NFL experience.
Running Back
The Lions have one of the most exciting young running backs in the NFL in D'Andre Swift. Swift was a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season. He is expected to be the starter in 2023 and could be a breakout star. Behind Swift, the Lions have Jamaal Williams, who was signed as a free agent in 2021. Williams is a reliable veteran who can contribute both on the ground and in the passing game.
Wide Receiver
The Lions have a solid group of wide receivers led by Tyrell Williams and Breshad Perriman. Williams was signed as a free agent in 2021 and has the potential to be a number one receiver. Perriman was also signed in 2021 and has the speed to stretch the field. Behind Williams and Perriman, the Lions have a mix of young and veteran receivers, including Quintez Cephus, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Kalif Raymond.
Tight End
The Lions have one of the best young tight ends in the NFL in T.J. Hockenson. Hockenson was the Lions' first-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and had a breakout season in 2020. He is expected to be one of Goff's favorite targets in 2023. Behind Hockenson, the Lions have a solid backup in veteran Jesse James.
Defense
Defensive Line
The Lions' defensive line is led by Trey Flowers, who was signed as a free agent in 2019. Flowers is a versatile player who can play both defensive end and defensive tackle. Alongside Flowers, the Lions have a mix of young and veteran players, including Da'Shawn Hand, Nick Williams, Levi Onwuzurike, and Alim McNeill. Onwuzurike and McNeill were both drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft and are expected to make an immediate impact.
Linebacker
The Lions' linebacker group is led by Jamie Collins, who was signed as a free agent in 2020. Collins is a veteran player who can play both inside and outside linebacker. Alongside Collins, the Lions have a mix of young and veteran players, including Jahlani Tavai, Derrick Barnes, and Julian Okwara. Barnes and Okwara were both drafted in the 2023 NFL Draft and are expected to contribute immediately.
Cornerback
The Lions have a solid group of cornerbacks led by Jeff Okudah, who was the Lions' first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Okudah had an up-and-down rookie season but is expected to take a big step forward in 2023. Alongside Okudah, the Lions have a mix of young and veteran players, including Amani Oruwariye, Quinton Dunbar, and Ifeatu Melifonwu. Melifonwu was drafted in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft and has the potential to be a star at the NFL level.
Conclusion
The Lions' projected depth chart for the 2023 NFL season is an exciting mix of young and veteran players. There are several players who have the potential to be breakout stars, including D'Andre Swift, T.J. Hockenson, and Jeff Okudah. If the Lions can stay healthy and play to their potential, they could be a surprise team in the NFL in 2023.
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