Positional Analysis: Linebackers...

Outside Linebackers

1. Ernie Sims: Coming into his own in his 3rd year, Sims may be the best weak-side backer in the NFL right now. Last year Lions opponents gained just 48 yards on 13 carries on sweep plays with Sims at the point of attack, with a big 25 yard gainer on just one play. His play against the pass is improving by the day. There isn't anything he can't do. He is the Lions best defensive player.

2. Alex Lewis: Underrated, and underappreciated, Lewis gets a chance to start at the strong side, where his speed and heart can make up for his lack of size. He's really a speed guy, and one of the Lion's best blitzers, he doesn't get the chance to blitz often enough. I also think he'd be an interesting guy to line up and rush the passer on third down, but his speed is also needed downfield. He's also one of the Lions best special teams performers on the coverage units.

3. Anthony Cannon: Another speed backer in the mold of Lewis, but not as athletic, Cannon has made his presence known on special teams, which should keep him on the roster. He has terrific straight line speed, but has issues moving laterally. He'll backup the weakside (Lewis would move over if a long term injury occurs to Sims), so he won't be needed on defense much.

4. Leon Joe: Joe has some experience in the league, since he was drafted in 2004 in the fourth round out of Maryland by the Bears. He's moved around, playing for the Bears, Cardinals and Bills before signing with the Lions, and he might have a job. His play has been extremely steady in the preseason, and he could backup at the strong side.

Middle Linebackers

1. Paris Lenon: Lenon is a really solid guy, just not the flashy type. Still, he's extremely productive, with 161 tackles last year, two sacks, and one INT that he ran back for 61 yards. He should start whether he's at MLB, or at the strong side when Dizon is up to speed.

2. Jordon Dizon: He's starting to come on, and show why the Lions were so high on him at the draft. I think the Lions are doing the right thing, force-feeding him MLB, instead of switching positions to match their needs. Alex Lewis is a good enough player that they don't have to do that. This experience will work out well in the future, when starts to know the defense, and knows what offenses are doing. MLB is a tall order for any rookie.

3. Buster Davis: Almost written off after a forgettable rookie year when he was one of the few third rounders cut in their first training camp, Buster Davis has played extremely well, and has perhaps forced his way onto the roster with his strong play in the preseason. Last year seems to have motivated Davis in a big way. He's lost weight, and gained focus. He's a squatty type, built perfectly for this defense. And he's turning into a nasty player, which is a good thing.

Positional Analysis: The Lions have long struggled at LB, but they are improved. They have plenty of speed, but lack the size, which isn't really important in this defense. It will be telling out of the gate how much they improved when they play three straight tough running teams; the Falcons, Packers, and 49ers.