The Detroit Lions must focus on offense this offseason

It’s hard to argue that the Detroit Lions had any problems bigger than the offensive output this season. While I believe a new scheme deserves a partial amount of the blame, it can’t be ignored that some pieces of the puzzle were missing. Some of the puzzle pieces may have been put in backwards. With that in mind I believe the Lions will pick up the box and shake out the missing pieces this offseason. Here are the positions they should focus on

WIDE RECEIVER

Missing Calvin Johnson for a period of time this season exposed two things, Golden Tate was well worth the money and there is a noticeable drop off after him. Corey Fuller may turn into a serviceable player someday but this season he was always just a touch ahead or behind on every play.

Jeremy Ross turned in a disappointing season all around after he was expected to be a major asset. Ryan Broyles was great in the pre-season but rarely saw the filed when it counted. The Lions need a guy that can take advantage of the coverage Calvin and Tate get. I believe this is a position that will be addressed in free agency.

Potential additions: Cecil Shorts, Torey Smith, Wes Welker, Eddie Royal and Kenny Britt.

OFFENSIVE LINE

What happened to this unit? In 2013 they were shockingly good and going into the offseason last year it seemed like the one thing that the Lions didn’t have to fix. 45 sacks later and the line needs almost a complete overhaul. With Raiola gone and Rob Sims possibly next there are two major spots that need to be filled. Travis Swanson is expected to take over at center and the general belief is that he will succeed. However the Lions need to fill the void that ill be left by Sims and to be safe a right tackle that can stay on his feet for the season would be nice too. The draft has potential but unfortunately any lineman worth a first round pick is expected to be off the board by then. Therefor free agency will be the best place to get a lineman that can contribute immediately.

Potential additions: Mike Lupati, Bryan Bulaga, Michael Oher, James Carpenter and Doug Free

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RUNNING BACK

The man above may have played his last game in Honolulu Blue. Reggie Bush was an utter disappointment this season and it directly showed through on the rest of the offense. The running game was fairly stagnant this season until Joique Bell finished strong. The Lions need a running back that will keep defenses honest. Having such a player would open the scheme up and allow the passing game to flourish. It may also help keep Stafford on his feet. Luckily the draft has a few great first round targets that will likely be there around 23. Free agency also offers up some nice selections.

Possible additions: Melvin Gordon, Todd Gurley, Shane Vereen, Mark Ingram, Justin Forsett and Demarco Murray (for the dreamers out there)

What do you think? Where do the Lions need to focus their attention this offseason? Leave your comments below or follow me on twitter @lionmike26.