By Blessing 
Are the Lions Already in Trouble? 6 Camp Questions That Could Shatter Everything
As the Detroit Lions step onto the field Sunday for the start of their 2025 training camp, they carry more than just pads and playbooks. Despite boasting one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, Detroit enters the preseason with a handful of questions that could shape — or shake — the foundation of what fans hope will be a championship-caliber season.
Here’s a look at the six most pressing issues that could define the Lions’ 2025 journey.
1. Who Secures the Interior Offensive Line?
The retirement of center Frank Ragnow and the departure of guard Kevin Zeitler in free agency have left a significant void in Detroit’s offensive line — arguably the team’s most vital unit aside from the quarterback position. Any drop-off here could ripple through the entire offense.
Luckily, Detroit planned ahead. The team drafted Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, and Miles Frazier over the past two years. Throw veteran Graham Glasgow into the mix, and the Lions certainly aren’t lacking talent. But how it all fits together is the mystery. Will Ratledge continue repping at center like he did in spring workouts, or was that just an experiment? The coaching staff has some tough decisions to make — and they’ll need answers quickly.
2. Will Alex Anzalone Report to Camp?
Linebacker Alex Anzalone raised some eyebrows by skipping spring practice. That alone isn’t alarming, but paired with rumors of contract frustrations — and some telling social media activity — it has sparked concern.
Entering the final year of his deal with a $6 million salary and no guaranteed money left, Anzalone may be considering a holdout. If he does, it would mark the first player holdout under head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes. While veteran absences during camp aren’t always disruptive, this one could test leadership dynamics and set an unwanted tone.
3. Who Starts Opposite Hutchinson — and Can Davenport Stay Healthy?
While all eyes are on Aidan Hutchinson’s return from a broken leg, the bigger question might be about the edge opposite him. Detroit seems confident in Marcus Davenport, but his history of injuries makes that a risky bet. If he can’t stay on the field, the Lions will need someone to step up fast.
Do they truly believe in players like Al-Quadin Muhammad or Ahmed Hassanein? Or is a late move — perhaps signing veteran Za’Darius Smith — still on the table? The urgency here is real, and Detroit can’t afford to gamble with pass rush depth.
4. Can the Defensive Interior Hold Up Without McNeill and Onwuzurike?
Detroit’s defensive tackle rotation took a major hit with Alim McNeill still recovering from a torn ACL and Levi Onwuzurike unexpectedly landing on the reserve/PUP list. That leaves the interior looking thinner than expected.
Yes, the team addressed the position — drafting Tyleik Williams in the first round and adding veteran Roy Lopez — but it’s far from a guaranteed fix. DJ Reader is entering his mid-30s, Mekhi Wingo is bouncing back from a serious injury, and other depth players like Chris Smith and Brodric Martin still have a lot to prove. If McNeill and Onwuzurike were healthy, this room would be a strength. For now, it’s a wild card.
5. Will an Undrafted Rookie Crack the Final 53 Again?
For 15 straight seasons, the Lions have featured at least one undrafted free agent on their initial 53-man roster. That tradition is now in jeopardy — not because of poor scouting, but due to a stacked roster.
Still, history tells us someone usually rises through the ranks. Tight end, wide receiver, and safety are three positions where there could be just enough wiggle room for a surprise name to sneak in. Camp will reveal whether that streak lives on or finally ends.
6. What Will Change Under New Coordinators?
This year’s camp isn’t just about the players. With both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn moving on to head coaching roles, John Morton and Kelvin Sheppard now take the reins.
Both are familiar faces within the organization, which should help maintain continuity. But even with a similar framework, they’ll likely put their own stamp on things. Morton may tweak play-calling tendencies, and Sheppard — a rising coaching talent — could push for more aggression on defense. Watching how their strategies unfold during camp will be just as crucial as any position battle.
As Detroit begins what could be a pivotal season, these six questions loom large. The answers — or lack thereof — may determine whether the Lions roar into 2025 as contenders or crumble under the weight of expectation.