2014 NFL Draft Strategy Breakdown: Detroit Lions

Jan 19, 2014; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks receiver Golden Tate (81) attempts to catch a pass while defended by San Francisco 49ers cornerback Tremaine Brock (26) during the second half of the 2013 NFC Championship football game at CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks defeated the 49ers 23-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVIII. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Off-Season Pickups

This off-season many teams were extremely busy picking up free agents galore. The Lions actually remained relatively quiet this off-season in terms of acquiring players. Even though they didn’t add many guys, their pickups were well worth it. From the Seahawks and Ravens, the Lions were able to pick up Seattle WR Golden Tate and Baltimore Safety James Ihedigbo for five and two year deals, respectively. With the addition of Tate, the Lions get the perfect wide receiver to work in tandem with Calvin Johnson (league’s best receiver last season). With Tate returning punts and catching passes off the line of scrimmage, some of the pressure can be taken off of Matt Stafford’s already burdened shoulders. Last season for the Seahawks Tate was able to catch for a modest 898 yards and five touchdowns in 2013 and will definitely add some more this season for the Lions. On the flip side with Ihedigbo, the Lions will be getting a much needed safety after losing Delmas to the Dolphins. If Ihedigbo can replicate the very productive 101 tackle, three interception season that he had in 2013 with the Ravens, the Lions 23rd-ranked passing defense should be just fine.