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The Detroit Lions had one of the most disappointing seasons in the NFL this year. They failed to build off of their 2014 season where they went 11-5 and clinched a playoff berth. Nothing seemed to go right for the Lions in 2015, however, and the team struggled to a 7-9 record. There are several holes the Lions must fill in free agency or the NFL Draft in order to get back to where they were at the end of 2014, but with just over $23 million in cap space according to Sportrac, they won’t have too much wiggle room. One thing hanging over the Lions is the recent news from Calvin Johnson that he is considering retirement. If he does retire he would free up a lot more money as he is scheduled to count just over $24 million against the cap next season. Here are five players the Lions should target in free agency to get them back to the playoffs.
5. Alshon Jeffrey, WR
Credit: Getty Images5. Alshon Jeffrey, WR
If Calvin Johnson does decide to hang them up then they will need a wide receiver to replace him. The Chicago Bears want to keep Jeffrey but not at an extravagant price. If Johnson is gone then the Lions can afford to throw some dough towards a wide receiver like Jeffrey. Of course, given his injury history, the Lions won’t want to toss a boatload of cash his way, but he might be had for a sum both sides can find acceptable.
4. Lamar Miller, RB
Credit: Getty Images4. Lamar Miller, RB
Running back seems to be a problem area for the Lions these days. Ameer Abdullah was inconsistent in his rookie year despite high hopes and can’t be counted on moving forward. Miller would give the Lions a real threat in the backfield who is still young enough to be a lead back for a few years. If Miller hits free agency the Lions would be wise to take a long look at Miller to help give Matthew Stafford a consistent running game.
3. Muhammad Wilkerson, DE
Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports3. Muhammad Wilkerson, DE
Let’s face it, the Lions missed Ndamukong Suh this year. While they did manage to rack up 42 sacks this season, only one player (Ezekiel Ansah) was in double digits. Devin Taylor was second with seven. On the inside Haloti Ngata is due to become a free agent and is a shell of his former self. Wilkerson could be a force on the inside or outside and form a formidable duo with Ansah.
2. Josh Norman, CB
Credit: Getty Images2. Josh Norman, CB
If the Carolina Panthers let him walk due to cap restrictions then it could be the Lions’ gain. The Lions could use a little help in the defensive backfield and Norman might just be the best corner in football. He won’t come cheap at all, but the Lions have to target him at the very least if he hits the open market.
1. Russell Okung, OT
Credit: Getty Images1. Russell Okung, OT
Riley Reiff is due to hit free agency and if he is done with the Lions then they might as well target Okung who is arguably one of the best tackles slated to hit the market. Adding Okung would help out the run game and keep Stafford protected on his blind side. There is no such thing as too many offensive linemen.
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