2023 NFL Power Rankings: Lions among Best Teams

Early 2023 NFL power rankings have been released.

The 2023 NFL season has the potential to be very rewarding for the Detroit Lions. 

A 9-8 record in Dan Campbell's second season in Motown has justified supporters raising their expectations. 

With two additional first-round picks being added to the roster, Campbell and Co. are poised to make waves in the NFC North and hopefully in the postseason. 

"I remember at 1-6 everybody was -- they were ready to write us off," said Lions general manager Brad Holmes. "But, nobody ever wavered, everybody stayed the course and I think they were resilient with the adversity that we all faced. And, we made a commitment to build this thing the right way and sometimes the right way is the hard way. But, it’s still, it’s just the right way and we stayed committed to it. And, we saw the growth, and we just stayed patient. And, like I said, we just had a disciplined approach, and I think towards the end you started to see it really materialize. So, it’s good to see.”

More: Lions Have Ninth-Best Super Bowl 58 Odds

Let’s explore where the media has the Lions ranked, following the conclusion of the 2022 NFL season. 

ESPN

2023 power ranking: 12th

"Offensively, there aren't many holes to fill on the Lions' roster, but defense is a different story. After their first winning season since 2017, the Lions will have to rely on getting some game-changers in the draft with two first-round picks. Statistically, the Lions ranked in the bottom tier of nearly every major category on defense, including points allowed per game, in which they were tied for 28th (25.12 points PPG)."

Sporting News

2023 power ranking: 11th

"The Lions deserve to roar up here in the top dozen after their near playoff breakout under Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes. Look for more solid moves that complement their youthful promise with the only question being how much they trust Jared Goff."

Pro Football Network

2023 power ranking: 11th

"The fighting Dan Campbells were a treat to watch this past season. Behind a good offensive line and revamped receiving corps, the Lions’ offense rode an efficient Jared Goff all the way to offensive excellency. With Ben Johnson returning to Detroit, it’s likely we see further offensive success next season.

With two first- and second-round picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Lions could throw assets at the secondary in what looks to be a strong cornerback class. A slightly improved defense and Year 3 under Campbell could be the best season Detroit has had since joining the NFC North."

Touchdown Wire

2023 power ranking: 12th

"Do the Lions dare upgrade at quarterback? Jared Goff looked like his old self with Detroit, who is starting to take on the persona of coach Dan Campbell. Leaving Lambeau Field with a win and keeping the Green Bay Packers out of the postseason may be a heck of a touchstone for the Lions throughout the offseason. It shows that Campbell’s way works."