The Detroit Lions actually got off to a solid start in 2019, going 2-0-1 over their first three games and giving the Kansas City Chiefs a heck of a fight in what ended up being their first loss of the season.

But then, the wheels came off.

The Lions won just one game the rest of the way to finish 3-12-1, leading some to question whether or not Matt Patricia really has what it takes to coach this football team.

Detroit has opted to give Patricia another chance. And for good reason, as the Lions had a whole lot of injuries this year, and it's not like this club is incredibly talented as it is.

But there is no doubt the clock is ticking for Patricia.

So, here are three major needs for the Lions entering the offseason:

3. A running back

Kerryon Johnson is talented, but two years into his NFL career, he has been unable to stay healthy.

In 2018, he played in 10 games due to a knee injury. This season, he was limited to eight contests due to knee issues.

Knee problems are concerning for any professional athlete. Especially for a running back who basically makes his living off of making quick cuts and counters, actions that place a whole lot of strain on your knees.

It seems like it's time for the Lions to explore other options.

There is always Melvin Gordon in free agency, although he is a bit overrated — his efficiency leaves much to be desired — and has had injury issues of his own.

Whatever the solution is, Detroit needs to find it, whether that's through free agency or the draft.

2. Start thinking about quarterback

Matthew Stafford is a good quarterback, and I fully believe that a good franchise can win with him under center.

But he turns 32 years old next month and played just eight games this season, and time is running out for the Lions to put a truly competitive team around him.

He has some good receivers in Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones, but the rest of the roster is lacking.

As a result, it may be time for Detroit to start thinking about the quarterback position moving forward.

That doesn't mean the Lions should just dump Stafford and start fresh, but they could always examine taking a quarterback in the draft if one falls into their laps.

This is a franchise that has not won a playoff game in almost 30 years. So thinking about the future and trying to establish a foundation for life after Stafford is something that Detroit should be doing.

1. Pass rushers

The Lions ranked dead last in the NFL against the pass in spite of having some decent talent in the secondary. Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay is an example of this.

The biggest reason for Detroit's struggles is its pass rush, which accumulated a grand total of 28 sacks on the year.

I don't care how good your secondary is; if you aren't getting any pressure up front, it's not going to matter, as receivers are going to find a way to get open.

Trey Flowers and Devin Kennard each logged seven sacks in 2019, combining for half of the team's total. That is unacceptable.

Adding a couple of guys who can actually get into the backfield and make plays is a must for the Lions this offseason.