April 1, 2008

Needs on offense: If the team is to stick with its proposed run-based offensive plans, a right tackle and a running back (perhaps two) would be nice. Right now, it’s George Foster starting at the former and Tatum Bell at the latter. There are elite prospects at both spots who could figure as the team’s first-round pick.

Needs on defense: Although the team has made several moves to upgrade the secondary, more depth would be nice. But the primary needs fall at middle linebacker and defensive end. Finding a proper “Mike” would allow Paris Lenon to move to the strong side. And getting a strong end to pair with Dewayne White — preferably one who could help stop the run — would be a big boon.

On Draft Day … Considering the draft class and the Lions’ offseason moves, the priority appears to have shifted from defense to offense in terms of immediate need. The team almost certainly will count on its first-rounder, perhaps a running back or a tackle, to start from Day One, although you can’t rule out defensive help at the top of a draft from a team that ranked in the bottom five in several crucial categories last season.