Detroit Lions draft capsule
20. DETROIT LIONS (9-7)
LAST SEASON: Raised hopes with 3-1 and 6-4 records and dashed them by losing three straight early in season and three of five toward end of year. Coach Jim Caldwell lost job after four seasons, failing to make playoffs for second time in three years. Ranked last in rushing and QB Matthew Stafford was sacked 47 times behind banged-up offensive line. WRs Marvin Jones and Golden Tate had 1,000 yards receiving apiece and combined for 14 TDs. All-Pro CB Darius Slay led sixth-ranked defense. All-Pro PR Jamal Agnew was pleasant surprise as fifth-round pick.
THEY NEED: DE, OG, LB, DT, TE, RB.
THEY DON'T NEED: QB, WR, S, T, CB.
POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: DE-LB Harold Landry, Boston College; G Will Hernandez, UTEP; DT Da'Ron Payne, Alabama ; LB Rashaan Evans, Alabama; DT Maurice Hurst, Michigan; RB Derrius Guice, LSU.
OUTLOOK: GM Bob Quinn made clear Caldwell's consecutive 9-7 records and 36 wins over four years weren't enough to keep job, raising stakes for new coach Matt Patricia. Both former Patriots employees have freedom to lead franchise desperately seeking success. Quinn says team can likely take best player available because it isn't desperate for help at any position. Needs clearly at DE with Ezekiel Ansah playing on franchise tag, and at G opposite T.J. Lang. One void can be filled late in first round.
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