2017 NFL Power Rankings: Preseason Edition

25. Detroit Lions, -1.89 nERD

The Detroit Lions' fortunes also likely come down to a specific area of the game, but it's not the offense.

Detroit has ranked 14th or better in Adjusted Passing NEP per play every year since 2010 and were 7th in 2016. Matthew Stafford had his best year to date by Passing NEP per drop back (0.18), besting his 0.16 in 2011.

The team did invest in the defense via the draft, selecting two University of Florida teammates (linebacker Jarrad Davis 21st and cornerback Jalen Tabor 53rd) with their first two picks.

Last year's 32nd-ranked defense (31st against the pass and 22nd against the rush) will need to figure things out if the Lions want to make the most of a promising offense in 2017.