Notes: Detroit Lions receive A- in PFF’s total ‘Offseason Grade’

Between free agency and the draft, the Detroit Lions have earned top marks for using these opportunities to successfully bolster their roster through a series of strategic moves.

For the most part, major changes to the 2022 roster are just about over. PFF’s Sam Monson used the Lions’ free agency and draft grades—both awarded during those periods—along with front office hirings and coaching ranks to come up with a composite, overall offseason grade.

First, the Lions received an “above average” grade for their free agency moves.

“D.J. Chark represents an excellent example of the kind of gamble teams should take at receiver. He has rare speed and physical tools but hasn’t put it all together yet,” Monson writes.

As for the draft, Detroit scored the highest score possible — a coveted A+.

“Landing Aidan Hutchinson with the No. 2 overall pick is a gift the Lions must have thought was an improbable result for most of the process,” the analyst writes, adding he can be a cornerstone for a defense with a multitude of young talent.

Combing the two plus a few other elements, the Lions came out to an A- offseason grade. The only thing Detroit really didn’t do was secure a franchise quarterback, but Monson smartly points out that may not have even been planned for this part of the multi-year rebuild.

“There’s no guarantee that was ever planned at this stage, as it could have always been planned to come in Year 3 when everything else is already in place,” he said.

More great marks for the Lions' offseason. You love to see it.

And onto the rest of your notes.

• What is the biggest question facing each new offensive play-caller of 2022—AKA Ben Johnson for the Lions? The Athletic’s Nate Tice has that story. ($)

• And you thought mock season was over. Using Super Bowl odds to determine draft order, CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards predicts the Lions will pick up a quarterback with the third overall pick.

• A list of 22 quirks to the 2022 schedule — one involving the Lions, and several involving our NFC North foes. For example, the Bears spend the entire month of December at home.

• Confirmed Jersey numbers, y’all.

• Mike Florio and Chris Simms explain why they feel the Lions' schedule shows the NFL’s lack of respect for Detroit.

• “The Fighting Dan Campbells are on the rise.” The Lions landed fourth on this CBS Sports list of the top 10 most impactful draft classes.

• One of us! One of us!

• Sneaking this one in here... Matt Patricia, along with Joe Judge, is taking on new duties as the Patriots remain without an official offensive play-caller.