Few paid much attention to the Lions as their losing streak increased last season, but a few young Lions such as RB Kevin Smith and DE Cliff Avril played good football, even as the team struggled. Avril, in particular, flew below the radar, but he could be a player to watch as training camp approaches. With five sacks and four forced fumbles, he proved he has a knack for making big plays, and the new coaching staff saw something in him on tape to the point where they think he can slide around and become a versatile performer. The fact that he has a full year under his belt means that he could make a bigger impact earlier in the season, too. “I’ll be more prepared mentally, unlike last year when I went in and had no clue as far as plays,” Avril posted on his personal blog. “When you know what you’re doing you can go in there and be able to play football without thinking too much.”

Kickoff is coming! Be sure to buy copies of the Pro Football Weekly/Yahoo! Sports 2009 NFL preview magazine, as well as the Pro Football Weekly/Yahoo! Sports Fantasy Football Guide 2009, both of which are now available at bookstores, newsstands and retail outlets where magazines are sold. Or order your copies online at PFWStore.com.