The Detroit Lions clearly have to be way better defensively going forward. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard's unit left plenty to be desired through the first two weeks of the season, leaving Lions fans despondent about their chances of contending.
The secondary has understandably received the lion's share of scrutiny through the first two games. Detroit's defensive backfield had a ton of communication errors and basic mistakes, especially against the Bills. That is the top priority for the Lions at the moment.
At the same time, that is not the only issue ailing the Lions. Dan Campbell has to make a couple of radical changes, starting with the Jets clash in Week 3. And that has to start with personnel changes.
Ahmed Hassanein should get a chance in Week 3
One player who hasn't gotten a chance to shine so far is defensive end Ahmed Hassanein. The second-year player was one of the preseason stars for the Lions, earning his way onto the 53-man roster. He made a ton of plays in training camp and preseason, impressing the coaching staff with his effort and attitude.
Yet, he has been on the inactive list in both games for Detroit. So, he has yet to make his NFL debut. But the Lions could benefit from his energy and upside.
It's not like the Lions' pass rushers outside of Aidan Hutchinson have been impressive so far. Hutchinson is the only EDGE to record a sack on the team in the first two games.
DJ Wonnum has played the most snaps opposite Hutchinson, but he hasn't made much of an impact in the pass rush. Tyler Lacy has had a larger-than-expected role so far, lining up in 51 snaps, but has mostly been forgettable. Rookie Derrick Moore has been a work in progress, as his 49.3 defensive grade on Pro Football Focus is one of the worst marks on the team.
Giving Moore snaps, considering his potential and draft pedigree, is understandable. But can Hassanein really not provide as much as Lacy right now?
It's difficult to imagine that the former sixth-round pick would be a downgrade. There could be some untapped potential with Hassanein, especially considering his infectious grit. Perhaps he could help jolt the sluggish Lions defense in Week 3 and beyond.
This may not seem like the most important item on the agenda for the Lions, but the change has to start somewhere. Benching the underperformers for the deserving backups would be a good start.
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