Burning Offseason Questions for the Lions in 2025
The Detroit Lions’ 2024 season concluded with a promising 15-2 record, securing the NFC North title and the top seed in the NFC. However, their playoff journey ended abruptly with a 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round. This outcome has prompted critical evaluations of the team’s roster and strategic direction as they prepare for the 2025 offseason.
1. Offensive Line Reinforcement
The Lions’ offensive line has been a cornerstone of their success, but age and injuries are beginning to take a toll. Center Frank Ragnow, despite being one of the league’s best, has been hampered by a persistent toe injury over the past two seasons. Left tackle Taylor Decker, now over 30, has absorbed significant wear and tear in his nine-year career. Veteran guards Graham Glasgow (32) and Kevin Zeitler (34) are also aging, with Zeitler set to become a free agent. To maintain offensive stability, the Lions should prioritize drafting or signing younger, durable offensive linemen to ensure depth and longevity.
2. Defensive Depth and Health
Injuries significantly impacted the Lions’ defense during the 2024 season, with key players like pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, and cornerback Carlton Davis missing substantial time. The playoff loss to the Commanders highlighted the defense’s vulnerabilities, especially with multiple starters sidelined. Enhancing depth through free agency and the draft is essential to mitigate injury risks and maintain defensive performance throughout the season.
3. Coaching Stability
The Lions face potential upheaval in their coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is a strong candidate for head coaching positions, with reports linking him to the Chicago Bears and Jacksonville Jaguars. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is also a candidate for head coaching roles, including with the New York Jets. Head coach Dan Campbell anticipates the departure of both coordinators and emphasizes the need to maintain the team’s identity and offensive scheme continuity. The Lions must prepare for these potential exits by identifying and grooming internal candidates or seeking external hires who can seamlessly integrate into the existing system.
4. Free Agency Decisions
The Lions have 21 unrestricted free agents, including wide receiver Tim Patrick, offensive tackle Dan Skipper, and defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad. Re-signing key contributors like Patrick and Skipper is crucial for maintaining offensive depth. Defensive players such as Muhammad, along with linebacker Derrick Barnes and cornerback Khalil Dorsey, have been valuable and should be prioritized for re-signing. Conversely, players like quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, guard Kevin Zeitler, and defensive linemen Levi Onwuzurike and Jonah Williams may not be re-signed due to age, performance, or injury concerns. Strategic decisions in free agency will be pivotal in balancing veteran presence with the infusion of youthful talent.
5. Draft Strategy
With the 28th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Lions have the opportunity to address several positional needs. Offensive line prospects like Cameron Williams and Armand Membou could provide immediate depth. Defensive tackle Tyleik Williams and edge rushers such as James Pierce Jr. and Jack Sawyer are potential targets to bolster the defensive front. Additionally, linebacker Jalon Walker and defensive back Jahdae Barron could enhance the defense’s versatility. A strategic draft approach focusing on these areas will be essential for the Lions’ continued development.
6. Quarterback Evaluation
Quarterback Jared Goff’s performance in the playoff loss to the Commanders, including three interceptions, raises questions about his consistency in high-pressure situations. While Goff has been effective during the regular season, the postseason performance suggests a need for evaluation. The Lions should consider whether to invest in a developmental quarterback through the draft or free agency to provide competition and potential succession planning.
7. Special Teams Assessment
The special teams unit, particularly the kicking game, has been a point of concern. Kicker Michael Badgley is unlikely to be re-signed, especially with Jake Bates securing the placement duties. The Lions should assess the entire special teams unit to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that special teams contribute positively to field position and scoring opportunities.
8. Defensive Secondary Enhancement
The cornerback position remains a critical area for improvement. With Carlton Davis entering free agency, the Lions must decide whether to re-sign him or seek a more durable and consistent option. Relying on unproven players like Terrion Arnold and Amik Robertson as top cornerbacks could be risky. Investing in a high-quality cornerback through free agency or the draft would strengthen the secondary and provide greater stability against potent passing offenses.
9. Linebacker Depth
While linebacker Alex Anzalone has been a standout, the Lions lack depth at the position. Derrick Barnes’ potential departure as a free agent further exacerbates this issue. The team should prioritize adding depth through free agency or the draft to ensure a robust linebacker corps capable of withstanding injuries and maintaining defensive integrity.
10. Defensive Line Reinforcement
The defensive line, particularly the edge rusher position opposite Aidan Hutchinson, requires attention. Za’Darius Smith has been a solid contributor but is not a premier pass rusher. Acquiring a high-caliber edge rusher, such as Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders, would provide a formidable pass-rushing duo, significantly enhancing the defense’s ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
