If there's something that defines the Detroit Lions, it's the loyalty and passion of their fanbase. After so many years of struggles, the faithful will ride or die with those who wear this uniform with pride and leave it all on the gridiron.
That's why, after years of watching them lead the way on offense and defense, fans were livid when the Lions chose to trade David Montgomery and let Alex Anzalone walk away in free agency. That sentiment may have changed to a degree by now.
While they're not to blame for their team's struggles, and while the Lions could certainly use both of them right now, they're both playing for 0-3 teams. Notably, it looks like time has validated the decision to let them go.
Lions have flaws, but not because of the departures of Montgomery and Anzalone
The Lions have the best running back in the game right now. Jahmyr Gibbs is in the midst of a breakout season, making the most of every touch and showing how dynamic he can be when given a longer leash.
Granted, having Montgomery by his side was also the best way to keep him safe and sound. There are legitimate concerns about his heavy usage, though it seems like offensive coordinator Drew Petzing finally trusts Sione Vaki to be his backup.
As for Anzalone, the Lions have plenty of problems on defense, but so far, the linebacker corps hasn't been one of them. Jack Campbell is leading the way at MIKE, with Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez by his side, while Devin White nurses an injury.
Of course, watching Anzalone leave the team on somewhat bad terms was a bit discouraging, and he's still balling for the 0-3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But to Brad Holmes' credit, the team doesn't seem to miss him that much.
Nevertheless, while that means the Lions deserve the benefit of the doubt for some of the moves they've made, it's also become painfully evident that this team must make some trades if they want to make a deep postseason run.
They might have the absolute worst cornerback room in pro football, and that's not gonna cut it in such a competitive division like the NFC North. That problem predated their issues with Terrion Arnold, but it only worsened after they parted ways with him.
At the end of the day, all that matters is that this team is 2-1, but they can't rest on their laurels just because of that. As for the former Lions struggling elsewhere, let this be a lesson that the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
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