NFC North pass rush units ranked from worst to best in 2023

2. Detroit Lions

The Lions made 39 sacks last season, which isn't great for a full-season total. However, there's reason for optimism in the Motor City. Detroit's pass rush improved dramatically as the season went on, helping power a 5-1 finish to the year.

During those six games, the Lions' defense made 19 sacks, including seven in a victory over the Chicago Bears.

Rookie James Houston made a massive difference. He didn't debut until Week 12 but instantly made an impact with eight sacks and 11 quarterback hits in just seven games.

Aidan Hutchinson, selected second overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, is a player to watch this season. He impressed with 9.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits as a rookie. Hutchinson can be the Pro Bowl pass rusher the Lions needed.

Detroit has good depth up front and should take a huge step forward defensively this season.

While it's surprising the Lions passed on the opportunity to add one of the premier pass rushers in the draft, like Lukas Van Ness, Nolan Smith, or Myles Murphy, they have plenty of talent.

The Lions just miss out on first place in these rankings, but that will quickly change if this unit reaches its potential in 2023.