Detroit Lions Capsules
The Associated Press
DETROIT LIONS (11-6)
OPEN CAMP: Aug. 2, Allen Park, Michigan.
LAST YEAR: Made playoffs in coach Jim Caldwell's first season and had chance to win NFC North before losing at Green Bay in Week 17. Defense shut down opposing running games, and Detroit allowed only 282 points, second fewest in NFC. Matthew Stafford and offense didn't quite live up to expectations, but he threw only 12 interceptions, fewest of career in full season.
IMPORTANT ADDITIONS: DT Haloti Ngata; WR Lance Moore; CB Josh Wilson.
IMPORTANT LOSSES: DTs Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley; RB Reggie Bush; C Dominic Raiola; G Rob Sims; DE George Johnson; CB Cassius Vaughn.
CAMP NEEDS: Find out how quickly G Laken Tomlinson and RB Ameer Abdullah, team's top two draft picks this year, can contribute. There's room for them to play right away after departures on offensive line and in backfield. Abdullah in particular could be counted on to produce in running game along with RB Joique Bell now that Bush is gone.
EXPECTATIONS: Losses of Suh and Fairley mean repeating last season's impressive performance defensively could be difficult. Lions acquired Ngata right away as Suh left via free agency. Detroit is hoping restructured offensive line will help keep pressure off Stafford. Calvin Johnson and Golden Tate remain formidable receiving tandem. Lions have won one postseason game in last half-century, during 1991 season. They nearly added to that total last season and will be eager to earn another chance.
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