The Detroit Lions are staring down a huge problem, and it’s got everyone buzzing. After finishing dead last in the NFC North last season, a brutal end to a year where they were championship favorites, Dan Campbell and the crew are desperate for a total 180. But you can’t hit that turnaround if your roster’s got holes big enough to drive a truck through. Turns out, they do.
Running Back Woes? Seriously?
Who would’ve thought a team with Jahmyr Gibbs, who’s absolutely electric on the field, would have a running back problem? Well, according to Josh Edwards at CBS Sports, the Lions have a surprising hole right there at running back. It’s not just about Gibbs, or even Isiah Pacheco being solid. The big question is: who’s behind them? Edwards points out there’s “no NFL production behind Jahmyr Gibbs and Isiah Pacheco.” That’s a huge red flag heading into roster cutdown day. Brad Holmes really should’ve gotten this situation handled, but it looks like he hasn’t, at least not yet. You can’t rely on just two guys for a whole season, especially in the NFC North grind.
The Secondary Is Looking Shaky
And it’s not just the backfield on offense. The defense is under the microscope too, specifically the secondary. Edwards didn’t pull any punches, saying their secondary is “littered with slot-type defenders, but lacks those capable of occupying the boundary at a serviceable level.” Ouch. The Terrion Arnold development, whatever happened there, was called “unforeseen and disappointing.” That’s not the kind of feedback you want for your defensive backs. It’s wild that the team apparently wasn’t considering additions even before that disappointment surfaced. You need guys who can lock down the boundary; it’s non-negotiable in this league.
So, what’s next for Detroit? If Dan Campbell truly wants that “total 180” and to prove their Super Bowl window isn’t slamming shut, these aren’t just minor tweaks. These are glaring issues at running back depth and cornerback talent that need immediate attention. You can’t just hope these things fix themselves. They’ve gotta win games, plain and simple, and right now, the roster setup has some serious questions hanging over it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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