The Detroit Lions, fresh off a season that saw them reach the NFC Championship Game and ignite a fervent fanbase, entered the 2025 offseason with a new set of challenges: how to build on success and transition from Cinderella to legitimate Super Bowl contender. Both fans and commentators have been relentlessly dissecting every move made by General Manager Brad Holmes and Head Coach Dan Campbell, recognizing that this offseason was crucial for cementing the franchise’s trajectory. The discourse has ranged from widespread praise for strategic additions to healthy debate over key departures and the overall philosophy guiding their roster construction.
Perhaps the most significant change, and the one that garnered immediate attention, was the significant overhaul of the coaching staff. Following their stellar performance, both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn leveraged their success into head coaching gigs, with Johnson heading to the Chicago Bears and Glenn taking the reins of the New York Jets. This exodus of key coordinators presented a major test for Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes.
To replace Johnson, the Lions brought in John Morton as the new offensive coordinator.1 Morton, previously the passing game coordinator for the Denver Broncos, brings a wealth of NFL experience.2 The move signals a desire to maintain a high-flying, innovative offense while potentially adding new wrinkles. Fans and analysts are eager to see how Morton integrates his philosophy with the existing talent and whether he can keep the Lions’ offense as potent as it was under Johnson. The early sentiment is cautiously optimistic, trusting Campbell’s judgment in selecting a coordinator who aligns with the team’s aggressive, player-friendly identity.
On the defensive side, the Lions opted for an internal promotion, elevating Kelvin Sheppard to defensive coordinator.3 Sheppard, who had been the linebackers coach, is a familiar face and highly respected within the organization.4 This move emphasizes continuity and a belief in the established defensive culture. While some commentators questioned the lack of an external hire for fresh ideas, many fans appreciate the loyalty and the idea that the “Lions’ way” will continue to evolve organically. Sheppard’s challenge will be to take a defense that showed flashes of brilliance but also struggled at times (particularly against the pass in 2024, ranking dead-last in the NFC) and elevate it to a consistent top-tier unit.
Beyond the coordinator roles, the Lions also brought in a host of new assistant coaches, including Tashard Choice as running backs coach, Tyler Roehl for tight ends, Kacy Rodgers for the defensive line, and David Shaw as passing game coordinator.5 These additions indicate a concerted effort to deepen the coaching talent and inject new perspectives across various position groups.
The Lions’ approach to free agency, as always under Brad Holmes, was calculated and targeted, focusing on filling specific needs without overspending.
Key Additions:
The most significant splash was the signing of cornerback D.J. Reed to a three-year, $48 million deal.6 Reed, formerly of the Jets, is expected to step in as a starter opposite Terrion Arnold, providing much-needed experience and a high-level presence in the secondary.7 Commentators largely hailed this as one of the best moves of the offseason, addressing a critical weakness. While Reed had a slightly down year in 2024, his prior performance alongside Sauce Gardner suggests he can be a top-tier corner, and the Lions are banking on a change of scenery and a clear role to unlock his best play.
Other notable defensive signings include linebacker Derrick Barnes (re-signed to a three-year, $25.5 million deal), defensive end Marcus Davenport (one-year, $2.5 million), and cornerback Avonte Maddox (one-year deal).8 These additions bolster the depth and provide valuable veteran presence on a defense looking to improve. Re-signing Barnes was a key move, securing a young, ascending player who fits the team’s aggressive linebacker mold. The additions of veteran depth at defensive line and cornerback, like Roy Lopez and Rock Ya-Sin, reflect a commitment to building a deep rotation.
On offense, the Lions brought back familiar faces and added depth. Re-signing offensive lineman Dan Skipper, running back Craig Reynolds, and wide receiver Tim Patrick (one-year, $2.5 million) provides continuity and reliable depth.9 The signing of quarterback Kyle Allen on a one-year deal adds an experienced backup behind Jared Goff.10
Notable Departures:
Free agency is also about who leaves. The Lions saw some significant players depart, which sparked considerable discussion. Cornerback Carlton Davis III left for the New England Patriots on a three-year, $60 million deal.11 While D.J. Reed is a strong replacement, Davis’s departure creates a void that the Lions hope to fill with their new additions and existing talent like Terrion Arnold. Veteran guard Kevin Zeitler signed with the Titans, a loss that will test the depth of the Lions’ vaunted offensive line.12 Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu also departed for the Dolphins, leaving a spot in the secondary that the Lions addressed through free agency and the draft.13 The release of Za’Darius Smith further reshaped the defensive front.
Brad Holmes’ draft philosophy has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ resurgence: sticking to their board, prioritizing best player available, and finding individuals who fit the “kneecap-biting” culture. The 2025 NFL Draft was no different, though the picks themselves have generated a range of reactions.
The Lions made seven selections, focusing on bolstering both lines and adding skill players.
- Round 1, No. 28 overall: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State.14 This was a highly anticipated pick for many, as Williams is an elite run-stopper with disruptive potential. Fans generally lauded the pick, seeing it as addressing a need for interior defensive line impact. His ability to fit “like a glove” in the Lions’ scheme, as Holmes stated, resonated well.
- Round 2, No. 57 overall: Tate Ratledge, G, Georgia. An offensive lineman from a top program, Ratledge brings versatility and toughness. While the Lions’ offensive line is strong, depth and future planning are crucial, and Ratledge fits the mold of a physical, tenacious blocker. His “lion” tattoo even endeared him to the fanbase instantly.
- Round 3, No. 70 overall: Isaac TeSlaa, WR, Arkansas.15 Adding another receiver to the room gives Jared Goff more weapons. TeSlaa provides a different skillset and competition.
- Round 5, No. 171 overall: Miles Frazier, G, LSU.16 Another offensive lineman pick, further solidifying the depth and future of the trenches.
- Round 6, No. 196 overall: Ahmed Hassanein, EDGE, Boise State.17 A developmental edge rusher with high upside, Hassanein will be groomed to contribute to the Lions’ pass rush.
- Round 7, No. 230 overall: Dan Jackson, S, Georgia.18 A late-round safety who brings special teams value and competition to the backend of the defense.
- Round 7, No. 244 overall: Dominic Lovett, WR, Georgia.19 Another Georgia product, Lovett adds more competition and depth to the wide receiver room.
The draft class as a whole reflects the Lions’ strategy: building from the inside out, addressing immediate needs with high-upside talent, and prioritizing culture fits. The focus on defensive line and offensive line was evident, continuing their commitment to winning the trenches.
The prevailing sentiment around the Detroit Lions’ 2025 offseason is one of cautious optimism, tinged with the usual passionate debate.
- Defense: The clear emphasis was on improving the pass defense, particularly the secondary. The addition of D.J. Reed is seen as a significant step, and the hope is that new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard can maximize the talent. The defensive line also received attention in both free agency and the draft.
- Offense: While the offense was already elite, the focus has been on continuity (re-signing key depth pieces) and subtly enhancing weapons for Jared Goff. The coaching staff changes, particularly the new OC, are the biggest question marks here, but the belief in Dan Campbell’s overall vision remains strong.
- Culture: Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell continue to prioritize players who fit the locker room, exhibit strong leadership, and embody the “gritty” mentality that has become the team’s hallmark. This was evident in their draft picks and free agent signings.
- Shedeur Sanders “Trade”: (Assuming the rumored trade of Shedeur Sanders for Hendon Hooker and a 2026 5th-rounder materializes, as discussed in the previous response). This potential move is the one that has truly dominated headlines and sparked the most intense discussion. If the Lions indeed acquire Sanders, it signifies an incredibly bold, forward-looking strategic play for their quarterback future. While Jared Goff is firmly the starter, bringing in a highly touted prospect like Sanders to develop under him demonstrates a ruthless commitment to long-term success. It suggests the Lions are not just building for now, but actively planning for a sustained period of competitiveness, even at the game’s most critical position. This hypothetical move would be the biggest gamble and potentially the highest reward of their entire offseason.
In summary, the Detroit Lions’ 2025 offseason has been anything but quiet. From major coaching staff changes to strategic free agency moves and a draft class focused on trench warfare and high-upside talent, every decision has been scrutinized. The overarching theme is clear: the Lions are no longer content with being good; they are pushing to be great, and every move, big or small, is geared towards bringing a Super Bowl trophy to Detroit. Fans and commentators will continue to talk, analyze, and speculate, but the Lions’ path forward is undeniably set.
