Welcome to another Detroit Lions mailbag. It’s Week 8, and this season has been filled with unusual and exciting moments—a true roller coaster. Let’s dive into the questions.

Is there a way for Jameson Williams to appeal his suspension? I’m taking a slight shortcut here, as this question came from many fans in different forms but not in my specific mailbag requests. The answer is yes, Williams can appeal the suspension. However, history shows that most players who attempt appeals don’t succeed. While it can be done, the precedent is not in his favor.

The most prominent example is Richard Sherman’s successful appeal of his PED suspension in 2012. The key difference is that Sherman’s was for Performance Enhancing Drugs, while Williams faces a suspension for a Performance Enhancing Substance. The distinction is significant; PEDs like steroids are treated more seriously than PESs, which can include diuretics or ADHD medications. Therefore, there’s a possibility for a successful appeal if the situation permits.

This was anticipated. It’s common for tight ends with rookie seasons like Sam LaPorta’s to experience a downturn in their second year. I believe things will open up for him as the season progresses, but for now, defenses have started to figure him out. He’s still among the top tight ends in the NFL, but he needs to break out of this slump like many others have.

That PFF assessment was odd. They often have a tough time evaluating interior defensive linemen. After reviewing the film, aside from a few instances where he struggled to generate push, I didn’t see evidence that he was the worst Lions player on the field last Sunday. I thought he played well, and some challenges were expected as the Lions experimented with new strategies in Hutchinson’s absence.

I don’t see it happening. While other teams are winning now, many of those victories seem shaky compared to the Lions. It’s feasible that two or even three teams might make it, but I expect someone to stumble. My prediction is that it could be the Bears or Packers, as I don’t have confidence in either.

Ideally, the Lions would have completed a trade on Tuesday when they had practice time. Since that didn’t happen, the next likely opportunity appears to be next week. The team resumes practice on Wednesday and will fully prepare for the Titans. This doesn’t entirely rule out trades this week, but it seems less likely as the week progresses.

Typically, players will start their initial rehab with their personal trainers. Once cleared for workouts, they’ll transition to the Lions facility to train with team trainers. NFL players enjoy unique benefits; they are elite athletes with the flexibility to focus on rehab every day, unlike the rest of us who must juggle work. I wouldn’t be surprised if Hutchinson starts workouts as early as mid-November.

I believe edge rusher should be the top priority unless the Lions manage to acquire someone like Maxx Crosby or Myles Garrett. Even if they do, I would still advocate for drafting additional players to bolster depth.

Following that, acquiring a receiver would be beneficial. Tim Patrick is performing well but will turn 31 soon. Additionally, adding more offensive line depth could never hurt.

That’s an intriguing notion, and I see some merit in it. Aside from his penalties, he’s performed well, and with Christian Mahogany still sidelined, it’s reasonable to think the Lions might take their time with him in his second year. If that’s the case, Awosika could have a chance to become the full-time starter.