The NFL does better than most leagues to create parity. Teams go through cycles more frequently than other leagues, accumulating draft stock, changing head coaches, and building successful franchises in less time than it takes other professional organizations. That means teams can go from bad to good much quicker than expected, even if you’re the Detroit Lions.
The Lions had a difficult season last year. Detroit ended the campaign tied for the fewest wins and allowed the second-most points. The NFC North also-rans won their final game against the Green Bay Packers, dropping them to the second overall selection in the draft.