Pro Football Focus names Detroit Lions most-improved player for 2023
Pro Football Focus (PFF) has named Alim McNeill of the Detroit Lions as the team’s most-improved player for the 2023 season. This recognition is a testament to McNeill’s significant development and impact on the field. The defensive lineman, a former third-round pick, has shown remarkable progress, especially in his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
McNeill’s Impressive Growth
- 2022 PFF Grade: 69.8
- 2023 PFF Grade: 88.5
McNeill’s journey from a 2022 PFF grade of 69.8 to an impressive 88.5 in 2023 is a clear indicator of his growth and effectiveness as a player. His ability to enhance his game and contribute more significantly to the Lions’ defense has been evident throughout the season.
Sack Surge and Quarterback Pressures
- Career sack total more than doubled in 2023.
- Achieved five sacks and a career-high 34 quarterback pressures this season.
After tallying just three sacks over his first two seasons, McNeill’s increased sack total to five in the 2023 season, more than doubling his career total. Additionally, he recorded a career-high 34 quarterback pressures, demonstrating his improved ability to challenge and pressure opposing quarterbacks consistently.
TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- Significant Development: Alim McNeill of the Detroit Lions has been named the most improved player for 2023 by Pro Football Focus, reflecting his substantial growth and increased effectiveness as a defensive lineman.
- Remarkable Performance Leap: McNeill’s PFF grade soared from 69.8 in 2022 to an impressive 88.5 in 2023, highlighting his enhanced ability to disrupt opposing offenses and contribute significantly to the Lions’ defense.
- Increased Sack and Pressure Stats: Demonstrating his improved skills, McNeill more than doubled his career sack total in 2023, achieving five sacks and recording a career-high 34 quarterback pressures, showcasing his ability to consistently challenge and pressure quarterbacks.
The Bottom Line – A Rising Defensive Force
Alim McNeill’s recognition as the most improved player by Pro Football Focus for the 2023 season is a clear reflection of his hard work, skill development, and increasing impact on the field. His advancement from a promising third-round pick to a standout defensive player exemplifies the type of growth and improvement that teams hope to see in their young talent. McNeill’s trajectory not only bodes well for his future but also signals a bright spot in the Detroit Lions’ defensive lineup, promising a stronger and more formidable presence in upcoming seasons.