The Detroit Lions are a team on the rise in 2022 and I am here to tell you that D’Andre Swift is a smash in the 2nd round of dynasty startup drafts, regardless of format.
My guy misses four games last year and barely plays the last two and still finishes as the RB15 in PPR leagues. In 2021, among all the changes in the organization with a new head coach and offensive coordinator along with a new QB, the Lions were set for a transition year. To complicate matters, the team was able to bulk up their offensive line in the offseason, but injuries quickly mounted up in Detroit. Even with those challenges, Swift still got it done in only 13 games played.
🐷 67.2% snap share
🐴 151 carries
🎯 78 targets
👐 62 receptions
💪 452 receiving yards
💰 7 total TDs
📈 16.1 fantasy points per game
This offseason, the Lions are regrouping, starting with the offensive line returning in 2022 after an injury-riddled year. Decker was out 8 games and Ragnow was lost in Week 4, going on IR. Both Vaitai and Jackson missed a few games as well and this unit still finished 13th overall in PFF final grade for offensive lines. This unit has a chance to be the best offensive line in the NFL this coming season.
Detroit had a phenomenal draft on both sides of the ball. The additions of Jameson Williams in the first round and getting DJ Chark in free agency will open up the field as these speed demons will spread defenses out. Naturally, the run game and short yardage passing game will become a continual threat, especially with Swift in the backfield.
Swift is an elite receiver out of the backfield and can be moved around in the formation. He had an 18.4% target share, ran 297 routes, with 7.3 yards per reception. Now returning from his own injury and a healthy offensive line, Swift will look to be even more efficient after another offseason with Goff.
All that is missing here is a bit more opportunity in the run game and Swift becoming more efficient on the ground. If we can get more opportunity and efficiency, you have the start of a perfect storm and a top 3 RB in 2022.
