It goes without saying that the Detroit Lions have not seen much success for a very long time. That might change in the 2022 NFL season.

As the season opener approaches, let's look more closely at the Detroit Lions squad. There is no shortage of storylines here, but it's good to focus on any diamonds in the rough who might shine brightly in 2022.

You can understand why there is hope when you realize that the Lions lost four games by four points or fewer in 2021. Some of the games included horrendous breaks that could have caused the outcome to go either way. The Lions could have easily come out with two wins in that stretch.

This coming season, notching six or seven victories look very doable if you're anticipating improved health and natural growth now that players are aware of what to anticipate. The timetable seems to fit as well. The Lions' prospective opponents in 2022 had a cumulative winning percentage of just .467 in 2021, which was the fifth-worst record among schedules. In short, the Lions have the deck stacked a wee bit in their favor this coming season.

The Lions should see progress, though keep in mind that progress does not necessarily mean playoffs. A postseason spot is not necessary for Detroit to have a good 2022 season. It's all about those baby steps, after all. If they finish with at least 4 wins, that would already be tangible proof of improvement.

The thing is, these Lions have a wealth of youthful potential, but they must produce on the field and get those Ws to show that they are moving in the right direction. This is a fan base that has endured so much suffering. They would be thrilled to see their Lions finally reach .500, which is something they haven't done since 2017. That will likely not happen this season, but they should finish closer to it than last year.

In the same way that Lions head coach Dan Campbell started implementing the new culture last year, GM Brad Holmes started building the roster this offseason. The Lions have added quality in both free agency and the NFL draft thanks to some ambitious decisions. Holmes focused on the offense, in particular the wide receiver spot. Last season, QB Jared Goff had to deal with probably the league's least talented collection of pass catchers. In 2022, he'll be pitching to some fresh faces eager to please.

Aside from them, however, there are other hidden gems in Motor City. Who are these, and which ones have a high chance of making a big impact in the 2022 campaign? Let's find out.

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Lions Hidden Gems on 2022 Roster

McNeill – Nose Tackle

Although being a “breakout” nose tackle is not normally headline material, Alim McNeill is not your normal nose tackle. He exhibited impressive agility and good football vision as a rookie while helping anchor the Lions' defensive line.

With the team's switch to a 4-man front, McNeill should get more opportunities to face single blocking as a pass rusher. That would be great for him. The more aggressive, attacking defensive philosophies will directly support and call for McNeill's strengths. Among those strengths are his rapid release off the snap, surprising speed for such a massive guy, and powerful finish.

What would constitute McNeill's breakthrough campaign in his position? If he manages to surpass the 50-tackle threshold, that would be awesome. Another is if he can also double his 2021 total of two sacks. There is no doubt that McNeill is unquestionably capable of doing that and even more.

D'Andre Swift – Running Back

Everything is in position for D'Andre Swift to break out in a big way. He is now in his third season, and fans want to see him finally have a memorable campaign. So many people had hoped for him to be an elite-level RB when the Lions chose him in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Now is his chance to be that.

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Swift's open-field abilities have been somewhat demonstrated, particularly as a receiving option out of the backfield. Swift crossed the 1,000-yard barrier in 2021 thanks to his spectacular reception total (62) in 13 games, along with a few outstanding breakaway runs.

To succeed, Swift needs to exhibit more tenacity as a runner. He often doesn't sprint with power and falls down too readily on first contact. That might change as Swift has added weight this summer, particularly in the lower legs and upper torso. It enables Swift's dual-threat ability out of the backfield thanks to the offensive line's exceptional potential. If he remains healthy for more than the 13 games he has played in each of his first two Lions seasons, he may even challenge to surpass 1,500 combined yards.