By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions remain firmly in the conversation as one of the top teams in the NFL, even as the 2025 season approaches. Following the conclusion of the main free agency period, many outlets have placed them high in their power rankings. Sports Illustrated ranks them third, just behind the Buffalo Bills and the Philadelphia Eagles. As Conor Orr of SI puts it, “The Lions prodded both the high and low ends of the cornerback market this offseason after seeing what could happen when it all breaks down at the end of the season. While I wouldn’t be surprised if Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes don’t have one more big move in the tank, this offseason was enough to hold the fort and remain a major threat in 2025.”
However, not all analysts are as high on the Lions. Touchdown Wire placed Detroit eighth in their rankings, expressing concern over the loss of two key coordinators. Jarrett Bailey of Touchdown Wire acknowledged, “Roster-wise, the Lions are still very good. However, the obvious question is what will the offense look like without Ben Johnson? I still expect Detroit to be good, but they have a lot to prove.”
The departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is a big shift for the Lions. Both played pivotal roles in the team’s resurgence in recent years. Coach Dan Campbell has often said that he empowers his coaches to take on more responsibility, which has helped them grow. But now, with new faces stepping in, it remains to be seen how Detroit will adapt. History shows that coaching turnover can lead to slight regression, but that doesn’t mean the Lions can’t still make a deep postseason run.