(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
The Detroit Lions finished the 2022 season with their heads held high, despite missing the playoffs.
Heading into last year, the Lions weren’t expected to compete, but, due to a high-octane offense, they finished the season with a 9-8 record.
One of the Lions’ shortcomings last season was their defense, which will now be without cornerback Jeff Okudah.
Okudah was traded to the Atlanta Falcons earlier in the offseason.
In a recent press conference, Brad Holmes, general manager of the Lions, had this to say about Okudah.
“I think it was the right time, I think it was good for Jeff.”
Brad Holmes on Jeff Okudah trade: I just think it was the right time – NBC Sports https://t.co/Xq4zGBVTR5 #Dallas #athlete #photooftheday #gym
— 𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 (@PressReview99) April 20, 2023
While Okudah was an impactful member of the Lions defense, it appears that, for both parties, this deal might be the best-case scenario.
The Falcons have added several players during the offseason thus far, in an attempt to turn their organization around.
In terms of the Lions, they get Okudah’s contract off the books and can use some of their draft picks to add to their defense moving forward.
2023 could be an impactful year for the Lions organization.
The Chicago Bears are still in rebuilding mode, working tirelessly to add to their roster.
The Green Bay Packers are likely starting Jordan Love at quarterback in 2023, a changing of the guard for their organization.
In terms of the Minnesota Vikings, it appears that they are still looking for a team identity moving forward.
What’s next for this Lions team, as they look to reclaim the NFC North for the first time since 1991?
The post Lions GM Provides Clarity On Jeff Okudah Trade appeared first on The Cold Wire.