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If there’s one thing to get excited about for the 2017 Detroit Lions, it’s their offense. Though their weapons remain almost identical from last season, the additions of right guard T.J. Lang and right tackle Rick Wagner have built a foundation along the offensive line that Detroit hasn’t seen in years. Considering Matthew Stafford’s stellar play in 2016, expectations for his 2017 year are through the roof.
But the other side of the ball remains a huge question mark. After a poor showing last season, Teryl Austin’s defense has a long way to go to even get to mediocrity. Someone, anyone, is going to need to step up and make some plays.
So today’s Question of the Day is:
Who will be the Lions’ defensive MVP next season?
My answer: Ezekiel Ansah. An ankle injury quickly derailed Ansah’s 2016 campaign, leaving many fans wondering if he is truly the wunderkind that many saw him as after three years of steady improvement. Even though the Lions haven’t necessarily improved the parts around him this offseason (so far), I think Ansah will rebound in a big way next year. If Ansah can stay healthy for the majority of games, I fully expect him to hit double-digit sacks again in 2017, giving the Lions some much-needed pass rush.
Your turn.
Poll
Who will be the Lions’ defensive MVP in 2017?
This poll is closed
-
36%
Ezekiel Ansah
(188 votes) -
29%
Darius Slay
(151 votes) -
16%
A’Shawn Robinson
(88 votes) -
6%
Glover Quin
(35 votes) -
6%
Kerry Hyder
(32 votes) -
5%
Other (explain in comments)
(26 votes)