When the Detroit Lions gave over their franchise to first-time head coach Matt Patricia in early 2018, things figured to change drastically on the defensive side of the ball. After all, Patricia was the New England Patriots defensive coordinator for six seasons, leading the Pats to six-straight conference championships and three Super Bowl appearances.
Yet, offensively the remaining presence of Jim Bob Cooter as offensive coordinator seemed to ensure that the Lions’ strong passing attack would remain intact. But general manager Bob Quinn made a big investment to improve Motown’s running game in 2018. They added free agent running back LeGarrette Blount to the roster and used their first two draft selections on Arkansas center Frank Ragnow and Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson.