The Detroit Lions frenzied attempt to cap off one of the league's most impressive turnarounds in recent memory came up just short of a playoff berth last year, but this team is poised for a breakout in 2023. The Lions loaded up on talent to fill holes on both sides of the ball and now have a great chance to finally snap a 31-season streak without a postseason victory.

While Detroit's brass may have raised eyebrows amongst draft experts for some questionable usage of capital last month, the team came away with several contributors who seem to fit well in their scheme. Jahmyr Gibbs, the No. 12 overall pick, was widely considered the second-best running back in the class and helps fills the void left by the departures of both D'Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. At No. 18 overall, Detroit landed an off-ball linebacker who not only tested off the charts, but also adds the type of invaluable leadership and intangibles that perfectly fit with the identity head coach Dan Campbell has instilled in this group. Day 2 selections Sam LaPorta and Brian Branch also figure to play big roles right away at the tight end and safety spot, respectively.

Rookies aren't the only notable additions to this Detroit roster. After the secondary was exploited relentlessly last year—this unit allowed the third-most passing yards per game in 2022—the Lions added pair of veteran outside corners in Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley plus a proven safety/nickel back in C.J. Gardner-Johnson. This overhaul shores up the weakest part of Detroit's up-and-coming defense, while the offense has both a new face with David Montgomery in the backfield and a returning one following Marvin Jones Jr.'s return after two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

It now remains to be seen if quarterback Jared Goff can build off a resurgent 2022 campaign. While the Lions did take out some insurance in the form of third-round pick Malik Hooker, the coaching staff has maintained Goff is their guy after he went 9-8 as a starter during a 4,438-yard, 29-touchdown campaign. If he can maintain a high level of play, Detroit should be a playoff team that few will want to face with their seasons on the line.