The Detroit Lions had high expectations heading into the 2019 season, but they were a big disappointment once again. After starting off the season hot, the Lions struggled and it didn't help that Matthew Stafford went down with an injury. Heading into the 2020 season, there seem to be a lot of question marks surrounding the team and roster, but there are some needs that are more pressing than others.
Outlook for 2020 season
Heading into the 2020 season, the Lions knew they needed help with the defensive line, secondary, and maybe a quarterback if they were planning on moving on from Stafford.
In the draft, the Lions started off by selecting Jeff Okudah out of Ohio State and he should be able to come in right away and start. In round two, the Lions tried to find a starting running back in De'Andre Swift. The running back position always seems to be an issue, but they hope that Swift can fix that.
In round three, they selected edge rusher Julian Okwara who could also make an impact right away in 2020. With their second pick in rounds 3 and round 4, they selected two guards in Jonah Jackson and Logan Stenberg. Even if one of those guys can come in right away and be an impact player, that is going to be a big boost to the offensive line.
The Lions got a lot better during the draft, but there is one place they didn't focus on early, which they might end up regretting.
The Lions still need a defensive tackle or two
The Lions did draft John Penisni and Jashon Cornell in the sixth and seventh round, but they waited to long,. And it's going to be hard for either of those guys to make an impact in 2020.
Last season, the Lions had the second-fewest sacks in the league, which isn't acceptable in a division like the NFC North. Gone are Damon Harrison and Mike Daniels from last year's team. They did bring in Danny Shelton and Nick Williams, but that still isn't enough.
A guy who would make a lot of sense for the Lions is Marcell Dareus, who could come in right away and be an impact player. A veteran guy like Dareus could also help some of the younger guys as they adjust to the league.
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