The Detroit Lions are climbing the ranks in several power rankings and appear strong this season, but their offense has had a slow start. They’ve converted only 5 of 13 red zone opportunities (38.5%) for touchdowns in their first three games, prompting speculation about whether they need to revamp their offense and add more talent.
In a recent “Detroit Lions Mailbag” segment, Mike Payton addressed a question regarding the possibility of trading backup quarterback Hendon Hooker for benched Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young.
When asked if he would trade Hooker and a third-round pick for Young, Payton responded, “That’s a big question. While the Panthers have benched their first overall pick from last year, I don’t think they’re ready to give up on him yet. He just needs some time to develop. As for Young compared to Hooker, the main advantage Young has is his youth.”
Payton expressed that Hooker has demonstrated more potential than Young, noting Hooker’s stronger arm, better scrambling ability, and size. He concluded that he wouldn’t pursue the trade, though he’s curious about Young’s future and highlighted the challenges of drafting a starting quarterback.
In the meantime, analysts are singing the praises of the Lions. Pro Football Talk ranks them No. 3, with Mike Florio stating they can “suffocate most teams in the NFL.” USA Today places them at No. 4, with Nate Davis highlighting defensive end Aidan Hutchinson’s impressive performance. Yahoo Sports also ranks them at No. 3, but notes significant injuries to key players.
However, CBS Sports is more cautious, ranking the Lions at No. 10. Pete Prisco remarked that although they bounced back against the Cardinals after a loss to the Bucs, they haven’t yet shown the form expected of them.
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