The Detroit Lions have high expectations in 2023. 

After the 2022 season showed vast improvement in several areas, the team hopes to take the next step in 2023. The team did not have any superstar free agent additions, but there are a few rookies who seem set up for huge years. 

Additionally, the team has several incumbent players who appear to be primed for big things in 2023. Today I wanted to take a look at three players that I believe will have breakout seasons. 

James Houston, LB

Houston had a remarkable season under the radar in 2022. The 2022 sixth-round pick collected eight sacks in just seven games played. Perhaps most impressively, Houston only started twice.

It will be interesting to see if this was just a flash in the pan or if Houston can continue to improve.

I, for one, think Houston's 2022 was no fluke. Houston received a pass-rushing grade of 88.3 as a rookie and had a pass-rush win rate of 25%. With a full season as a starter, there's no telling what Houston could do.

Right now, Houston is listed as a starter on the depth chart across from Aidan Hutchinson. If this remains the case, don't be surprised to see Houston end 2023 with a double-digit sack total. 

Kerby Joseph, S

Joseph is another member of the 2022 class that exceeded expectations as a rookie.

Joseph collected 4 INTs and 82 tackles last season after starting in 14 games. The safety received a solid 64.0 PFF grade for his efforts and cemented himself as one of the starting safeties in Detroit.

However, I believe Joseph could achieve new heights in 2023 with a year of experience under his belt and an improved supporting cast. Joseph can learn from veterans CJ Gardner-Johnson and Tracy Walker III, and will also be aided by improved corner play.

With an improved secondary and a dangerous pass rush, I expect Joseph to be in a position to add even more interceptions in 2023. 

Alim McNeill, DT

McNeill is a player whose name is not often heard outside of Detroit circles. However, that could all change in 2023.

McNeill quietly had a solid season in 2022 finishing with 41 tackles, six tackles for loss, and seven QB hits. That performance was rewarded with a 69.8 PFF grade.

McNeill started in all 17 games in 2022 and should do the same in 2023. Expect Levi Onwuzurike and rookie Brodric Martin to rotate in, but McNeill is the unquestioned starter. The defensive tackle has also reportedly shed weight in a bid to become more of a factor in the pass rush. McNeill will also be aided by Hutchinson likely facing double teams once again in 2023.

Already an above-average run defender, if McNeill adds pass-rush support he would turn into a much more popular name. 

Featured image via © Junfu Han | 2023 Jun 1