NFL power rankings: Which teams will have the best defense this season?
By Jakob Ashlin
26. Detroit Lions
- Notable additions: CB Cameron Sutton, S C.J. Gardner-Johnson, CB Emmanuel Moseley, ILB Jack Campbell
- Notable losses: CB Jeff Okudah
- 2022 scoring defense: 28th
- 2022 yards defense: 32nd
Last season, the Lions had a breakout 9-8 campaign, and it was led by their offense, which was fifth in the NFL in points per game (26.6).
For the Lions to truly become contenders, their defense needs to catch up. The front office opted to overhaul their secondary this offseason, signing cornerbacks Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley and safety C.J. Garnder-Johnson. They also moved on from former third-overall pick Jeff Okudah, trading him to the Atlanta Falcons for a fifth-round pick.
Sutton is an excellent cornerback in pass coverage. Last season, he allowed a 47.9 completion percentage and 65.3 opponent passer rating; only four other NFL players hit those benchmarks.
Gardner-Johnson is coming off a career year, in which he was tied for the league lead in interceptions (six).
Moseley has been a good starter for the San Francisco 49ers over the last four seasons, but he has had trouble staying on the field. If he can remain healthy, he could be a solid No. 2 cornerback.
Still, they were some puzzling moves. Okudah had limited experience after missing the majority of the 2021 season with an Achilles injury. The 24-year-old showed signs of promise last season. Was it worth selling low on him? In addition, the Lions selected Jack Campbell with the 18th overall pick, when he was projected to be a Day 2 selection. Campbell can be a good NFL linebacker, but the Lions probably could have traded down and grabbed him.
The Lions’ defense should take a step forward in 2023, but they missed opportunities to maximize their potential.