It's been a while since we've seen the Detroit Lions at the top of the power rankings but the front office has made some nice moves the last couple of years to excite the fanbase. After an exciting offseason, this franchise hopes to shake things up in the NFC North. To do that, someone will need to step up and help the franchise to victory. For that reason, we take a look at one Lions X-Factor to emerge in the 2022 NFL season.

Most of the roster is young and needs time to develop. However, much of that can speed up if a veteran or two improve their play from a season ago. The Lions have the potential of being a dangerous team to play late in the year, especially if Dan Campbell can get the offense rolling.

Fans should be excited about the offense moving forward. D'Andre Swift aims to be one of the best running backs in the league while Amon-Ra St. Brown looks to further his development. On top of that, TJ Hockenson will bounce back and the addition of Jameson Williams makes this offense a legitimate threat. Even so, someone else needs to step up for the Lions to truly compete next year.

With that in mind, here is our X-Factor to emerge for the Lions in the 2022 NFL season.

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Lions X-Factor To Emerge In 2022 NFL Season

Jared Goff

Jared Goff has received a ton of flack over the years but it's been unwarranted. Sure, he's not an elite option under center but he's a very capable quarterback when a solid team is built around him. That's exactly what the Lions have right now as the offense is stacked with a ton of exciting young talent for Goff to throw to.

Detroit's chances in the 2022 NFL season hang in the balance of Goff's production. There is a real chance the front office aims to select a quarterback in the draft next year which would mean Jared Goff's days are numbered. Regardless, he's the starting quarterback for the upcoming season and could play well enough for Detroit to consider going a different route in constructing the roster.

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We've seen Goff support star players before during his time with the Los Angeles Rams. Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods were both consistent pass options during his tenure with the team. Albeit, Kupp went absolutely bonkers once Matthew Stafford arrived. But the fact remains, Jared Goff, helped the now superstar receiver develop in the NFL. He can do the exact same for the Lions with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams.

For Detroit to take the next step in development, Jared Goff has to play well in the 2022 season. If not, then the franchise will find itself in another frustrating year at the bottom of the barrel. For that reason, Goff must be considered as the surprising X-Factor for the Lions, as his production this year determines the club's chances.

Keep an eye on Jared Goff. He's in a position to be a major Comeback Player of the Year candidate after struggling throughout the previous season. The Lions seem to have the talent necessary to compete as long as the prospects develop accordingly. Look out for Detroit, as they could be a threat out of the NFC North if Goff plays well.