The last few seasons of Detroit Lions football have been disappointing. They’ve gone a combined 26-53-2 since their previous playoff appearance in 2016. Their most recent season resulted in a 3-13-1 record in which it was highly likely it would be their second winless season in franchise history. Bad coaching, horrendous drafting, and terrible officiating have resulted in Lions fans giving up entirely on their beloved team.

But this season sparks long-awaited hope for Lions fans nationwide.

Lions head coach, Dan Campbell, has been pushing his team every day since he became the coach just a year ago. The main difference this year is that he has more talent to work with. There are many things that they have improved upon in the offseason, and it will show in their performance this year.

Quarterback Jared Goff, whom the Lions traded for last year, was not very good. He was sacked 34 times last season, the most he’s ever had, and threw eight interceptions. But it seems quite probable that he will improve this season. With a healthier O-line, led by Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow, he will be given more time to pass the ball, reducing his sacks and interceptions. However, this could likely be his last year in Detroit if he isn’t able to improve even with a better O-line.

Goff has another weapon on the offense with Jameson Williams coming out of the draft. His contributions to the Alabama Crimson Tide are not to be overlooked. He was quite possibly the fastest receiver coming out of draft. Along with Amon-Ra St. Brown, it seems that the receiving corps will definitely improve this season. However, there are concerns with the torn ACL injury he suffered in the National Championship Game. To be sure that this isn’t an issue, the Lions placed him on the non-football injury list and likely will be sitting out for a few weeks. But after posting a video of himself working out, it seems that the injury that Williams had will not stop him at all and he will likely be starting in week one against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Lions also possibly have the greatest runningback duo in the division. Jamaal Williams and D’Andre Swift both were big contributors to an offense that struggled greatly last season. Swift often times doubled as a receivingback due to the receivers not being able to catch anything that Goff hurled at them. Williams was an above average runningback last year. His personality perfectly matches with the culture that Campbell is trying to build, and he will fit in very well with his coach’s game plan.

But possibly the most improved part of the Lions is their defense.

Drafting Aidan Hutchinson was a slam dunk pick. Not only does he fill a lot of holes in what was a bottom five defense last year, but he wants to be the Lions! This man will carry the number 97 in the Honolulu blue with pride! No other player in the history of the NFL Draft has wanted to play for the Lions as much as Hutchinson does. Along with the additions of Josh Paschal, and Kerby Joseph, the defense that gave up 27 and a half points per game last season is destined to improve.

With Dan Campbell leading the helm and talent surrounding the team, the Detroit Lions will be competitive this season. They still have a journey ahead of them, but with a plan for the future, the Lions will soon be back on top and might finally reach the long awaited trip to the Super Bowl.