Detroit Lions Team Needs and Offseason Headquarters Page
Jan 15, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions head coach Jim Caldwell speaks during a press conference at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
The Detroit Lions figured enough was enough. Picking in the top 10 yet again, they decided to cut ties with Jim Schwartz, who moved on to coach the defense in Buffalo.
With Jim Caldwell now taking over as the head coach, the Lions have a head coach now with significant Super Bowl experience and someone they believe can help push them over the top.
The Lions made a move in free agency to get Seahawks receiver Golden Tate, who figures to be the new Robin to Calvin Johnson’s Batman, and holes remain on defense and the offensive line.
Player Movement
Players Lost
- WR Nate Burleson (released)
- S Louis Delmas (released, Dolphins)
- OG Leroy Harris (released)
- DE Willie Young (Bears)
- DE Israel Idonije (Bears)
Players Added
- WR Golden Tate (Seahawks)
- C Dominic Raiola (re-signed)
- RB Joique Bell (tendered)
- DT Vaughn Martin (Chargers)
- DE Daryl Tapp (Eagles)
- TE Brandon Pettigrew (re-signed)
- FB Jed Collins (Saints)
- S James Ihedigbo (Ravens)
Lions Top Team Needs
1. Wide Receiver
The Lions added Golden Tate and have Ryan Broyles at receiver aside from Calvin Johnson, but they have been sniffing around some of the top receivers in the draft like Sammy Watkins and Mike Evans. They obviously feel like they can still upgrade at this spot.
2. Cornerback
With Darius Slay added last year, the Lions got younger here but they still have pieces they need to add.
3. Center
Dominic Raiola isn’t getting any younger. The Lions need to look for a younger center to potentially replace him in the near future.
4. Safety
5. Defensive End
6. Backup Quarterback
7. Linebacker
Draft Picks
1 (10)
2 (45)
3 (76)
4 (111)
4 (133) – Compensatory
4 (136) – Compensatory
6 (189)
7 (227)