NFC North beat writers make both cases for and against the Lions' playoff chances, highlighting concerns about the offensive line and secondary but praising Drew Petzing's hire and the team's underlying talent.
Drew Petzing's gap scheme could unleash Jahmyr Gibbs in space and finally unlock the deep passing attack the Lions have always wanted with Jameson Williams.
The Lions have a cornerback crisis after Terrion Arnold's departure, and Brad Holmes needs to make an aggressive move in free agency or trade to fix the depth chart before it derails their Super Bowl hopes.
Brad Holmes sent a powerful message by releasing Terrion Arnold, proving the Lions prioritize culture and focus over talent when legal trouble threatens to derail their Super Bowl pursuit.
The Detroit Lions released cornerback Terrion Arnold after his bond was granted, leaving the team with over $9 million in dead money and a cornerback hole to fill before camp.
Terrion Arnold got a $1 million bond but still faces potential NFL suspension and team discipline before he can return to the Lions.
Sam LaPorta remains the Lions' top tight end while Tyler Conklin should claim the TE2 spot over Brock Wright, whose roster position could be threatened by undrafted blockers Zach Horton and Miles Kitselman.
Brad Holmes builds the Lions like Vince McMahon pushed WWE talent by investing in homegrown players over flashy free agents, and the strategy is working.
Former Lions CB Terrion Arnold's pre-trial hearing reveals prosecution claims he planned the armed robbery and kidnapping while watching via FaceTime from his car outside.
Drew Petzing turned backup linemen into productive starters in Arizona, and now he's got real talent to work with in Detroit's rebuilt offensive line.
