By Sunday 
The Detroit Lions have been building toward greatness for a few seasons now — and according to Brian Branch, 2025 might just be the year it all comes together.
From the Wounded to the Warriors
After a 2024 campaign marred by injuries — especially on the defensive side — the Lions somehow still clawed their way to a 15-2 record and the NFC’s No. 1 seed. Star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson fractured both his fibula and tibia. Linebackers Derrick Barnes and Malcolm Rodriguez were sidelined with season-ending injuries, and cornerback Carlton Davis suffered a broken jaw. Despite the setbacks, the Lions nearly reached the promised land.
But this year, the team’s mindset has changed.
“We feel invincible,” Branch told the Detroit Free Press. “We went through the ups and downs… it just makes everybody buy in.”
Hard Lessons, Sharper Focus
Branch was one of the few defensive standouts to stay mostly healthy last year, earning a Pro Bowl nod in the process. While his personal accolades grew, so did the Lions’ identity as a team forged in adversity.
“I feel like we’re better than last year,” he said. “We’re hungry, and I feel that’s gonna separate us. Our chemistry is on a whole ‘nother level.”
For a franchise that notched its first NFC Championship Game appearance since 1991 just two years ago, that hunger — combined with now-tested experience — could be the secret weapon.
New Faces, Same Grit
Yes, there have been changes. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are now head coaches elsewhere. Frank Ragnow surprised fans with a sudden retirement. But the front office hasn’t stood still.
Detroit added depth in the secondary (D.J. Reed, Avonte Maddox, Rock Ya-Sin), fortified the defensive line with first-round pick Tyleik Williams, and brought in Tate Ratledge to reinforce the trenches on offense.
More importantly? They’re healing. Outside of a few ACL recoveries still in progress, the Lions will roll into camp healthier than they’ve been in years.
A Mission Unchanged
It’s no longer about proving they belong. Now, it’s about finishing the job.
“We’ve still got the same mission and the same goals,” Branch said. “We’re trying to get that Super Bowl.”
The Detroit Lions have gone from a league afterthought to a legit powerhouse. And with Branch helping lead a mentally tougher, battle-tested squad, 2025 could finally be the year the Lions roar all the way to glory.