Dear Mr. Schwartz, Here's What To Do…

Being a Tennessee Titans fan, I know what Jim Schwartz is capable of. The man knows exactly how to run a great defensive unit. After Thursday, he’s going to need to know a lot more than just defense.

He will inherit a defense that ranked last in points given up per game, yards per game, and rushing yards per game. They were also ranked 27th in passing yards per game. My first suggestion? Trade down.

The Lions own two first-round picks after trading former Pro Bowl wide receiver Roy Williams. They are essentially on the clock with the first pick, and because of the trade, also own the 20th overall pick.

Sometimes, the fans force their hand into who a team drafts. They feel pressured to draft the big-time player that most often fail to realize their potential.

Last year, tackle Jake Long was the choice by the Dolphins and didn’t seem like the “sexy” pick, but it worked out. The Dolphins went on to have the greatest turnaround in league history.

A few years ago, the Packers selected Aaron Rodgers in the first round when they had other position needs. That led the team to go from a playoff contender to a 4-12 record. It really can make or break you.

The Lions should take the first pick of the draft and take a tackle. If not that, then they should trade down to a team within the top 10 picks, still draft a great player, and reek the benefits of the extra picks or players they receive in that trade.

I think going for a offensive tackle like Virginia’s Eugene Monroe or Alabama’s Andre Smith should be a big priority. With the second pick, I’d look for Mark Sanchez if he is available. If not, then I’d draft Matt Stafford or Mark Sanchez with the first pick (or traded down pick), then look for a tackle or defensive help with that No. 20 pick.

It’s not all about the draft though. Free agency plays a big part in assembling a team to compete. Detroit lacks many things on defense. First off, they need a pass rush. What better way to increase that with free agent Julius Peppers?

Or if they can’t afford him, why not Bertrand Berry of the Arizona Cardinals? Certainly, that would help.

A defensive leader would be great to have as well, as the Lions appear to be without one—perhaps a veteran like Ray Lewis or Jonathan Vilma? Brian Dawkins will be out there as well. The only thing is going to be to convince these players to come to an organization that just went 0-16 and to have the funds to support their signings.

If they can manage those things, they can be successful and win at least one game or even two. Still, that’d be an improvement from a season that is worth forgetting. Certainly, Jim Schwartz has the tallest task in the history of the NFL.