By Sunday 
Training camp hasn’t even kicked off in full yet, and already the Detroit Lions are sweating.
Not because of the Michigan summer sun, but because their defensive interior—one of the key engines of their 2024 success—is running dangerously low on horsepower. With Levi Onwuzurike officially placed on the reserve/PUP list, and Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo also banged up, things just got real for Brad Holmes and the defensive staff.
The Onwuzurike Setback
Onwuzurike was expected to be a rotational staple this season. After his solid 2024 showing—28 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 13 QB hits, and a forced fumble—the Lions rewarded the former second-round pick with a one-year deal worth up to $5.5 million.
And now?
He’s out for at least the first four games of the 2025 season. The team hasn’t shared many details, but with a known history of lingering back issues and spinal surgery in his past, it’s a fair bet this isn’t just a tweaked hamstring.
His absence leaves a massive hole. Whether he was coming off the edge or holding down the interior, Onwuzurike was disruptive and versatile—and this Lions defense is going to miss him more than anyone wants to admit.
McNeill and Wingo: Still Waiting
But wait—there’s more. It’s not just Levi. Alim McNeill is still recovering from an ACL tear he suffered late last season. Placed on the active/PUP list, McNeill is expected to miss at least half the season, and that’s assuming his recovery stays on track.
Then there’s Mekhi Wingo, who tore his meniscus in Week 13 last year. He’s also on the active/PUP list, though his timeline is a little more optimistic. Even so, no guarantees he’s 100% by Week 1.
So that’s three interior linemen—two starters, one key rotation guy—all banged up before August.
So Who’s Left?
The pressure now falls squarely on D.J. Reader and first-round rookie Tyleik Williams. Reader brings veteran leadership and high-level run defense, but can he handle extended snaps without wearing down? And while the coaching staff is high on Williams, throwing a rookie into the fire in Week 1 isn’t ideal—especially not in the trenches.
The Lions will likely test depth guys in training camp, and don’t be surprised if a veteran signing shows up if things look dicey. Because if the line doesn’t hold, that whole Dan Campbell defensive identity—tough, physical, relentless—might take a hit.
What This Means Long-Term
There’s still time. The regular season is weeks away, and PUP list designations can change. But it’s never a good sign when you’re shuffling your D-line depth chart before pads are even on.
This Lions team has real aspirations this year—playoffs or bust. If they want to stay on track, the front office and coaching staff will need to get creative up front, fast.
Because as of now, the trenches are looking mighty thin.