Mitchell Schwartz PFF: Detroit Lions' Most Critical Positions in Free Agency

As the NFL offseason is now in full swing, the Detroit Lions are facing numerous challenges as they navigate free agency and prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft. With a plethora of needs on both sides of the ball, it's crucial that the team addresses its most critical positions to ensure a successful season ahead.

One area where the Lions desperately need improvement is along their offensive line. Specifically, right guard has become a concern after the departure of Larry Warford last year. Despite his limited experience at the position, Warford made three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances with the Saints before opting out of the 2020 season.

In terms of potential free agent options, Forrest Lamp could be an attractive choice. Although he's struggled to find consistency throughout his career, Lamp has shown flashes of brilliance and would provide a significant upgrade over the Lions' current right guard options. However, his injury history and likely high price tag may deter the team from pursuing him.

Another option is Trai Turner, who boasts a strong track record as a Pro Bowl-caliber right guard. With his experience working under Lions offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn, Turner would be an ideal fit for the team's system. Nevertheless, his price tag might be too steep for Detroit to justify, given their budget constraints.

Ultimately, the Lions will need to prioritize affordability while still addressing their most pressing needs. By restructuring Jared Goff's contract and clearing $15 million in cap space, they now have the financial flexibility to sign several free agents without breaking the bank.

As the team continues to navigate this critical period ahead of the 2021 NFL Draft, it'll be interesting to see how they choose to allocate their resources. With positions like right guard and other key roles still up for grabs, the Lions' offseason moves will have a significant impact on their chances of success in the upcoming season.

Mitchell schwartz pff