While the Lions season had a disappointing end, the process transformed the franchise's future. The first half of the 49ers game is the most excited I've been watching a game in my whole life. The second half instantly became the most difficult. Why did that happen? Maybe it's just not their time yet.
Let's be clear: Dan Campbell's decision-making did not contribute to the loss. That aggressiveness allowed the Lions to elevate above the "Same Old Lions" moniker. That's how they used to lose games. Now they win them. Fans can't cry about the aggressiveness when it fails and praise it when it succeeds. They must take the good with the bad. That's how that works. The Lions made atrocious mistakes: several dropped passes, a fumble, multiple missed tackles, and a misplayed punt team play. That's why they lost. In fact, the decision not to kick the field goals made sense mathematically. The Lions have a higher percentage of converting 4th downs (75%) than Michael Badgley's career field goal percentage from 48+ yards (45%).
So, what's next?
Bulk up the Secondary
Add another pass rusher
Find a reliable kicker
Keep as many key players as you can
Draft well
The Lions problems last year were primarily on defense. I think that came down to two positions: Pass rushers and cornerbacks. In the last several weeks of the season and the playoffs, opposing teams consistently burned the Lion's secondary. If they can't upgrade here, it will be a major concern.
Aidan Hutchinson had a great season. He needs help. A healthy Alim McNeil solves the problems on the interior, but the Lions still need help on the other edge. Is a healthy James Houston the answer? Perhaps. Still, the Lions should do their best to find as much help as possible here. It could also cover up the problems in the secondary.
Find a kicker. The one thing the Lions had for my whole life was reliable kicking. Jason Hanson played well in Detroit for a long time. Since then, it's been a parade of kickers and Matt Prater.
I'm no cap expert. I know the challenge to staying good in the NFL is managing the contract demands of a talented roster. The Lions offensive line drove the offense. I say keep Jonah Jackson. I think Graham Glasgow and Jalen Reeves-Maybin would also be key targets. After that, the decisions get more difficult.
Keep drafting well. The past three Lions draft classes are the three best in franchise history. If Brad Holmes can do it again, the Lions will be on their way to the Super Bowl. I have no doubt of that.
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