The Lions have needs, like all NFL teams. But addressing one of their most glaring deficiencies — bolstering the pass rush along the defensive line — may prove to be more of a chore this spring than in previous offseasons, according to ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr.
In a media conference call Wednesday, Kiper called it “a bad, bad year” for defensive ends in the draft. And coupled with a weak free-agent class at the position, it only adds to the likelihood the Lions will decide to use the franchise tag to keep pending free agent Ezekiel Ansah in the fold for at least one more season.