The Lions entered the 2025 offseason riding a wave of optimism. Coming off a historic 15-2 campaign and a deep playoff run, they looked like one of the NFC’s rising powerhouses. But with success comes scrutiny, and as training camp approaches, not everyone’s sold on the direction Detroit has taken in recent months.
In a new feature from ESPN’s Seth Walder, the Lions received a B- grade for their offseason — and while that may not sound disastrous, it’s far from glowing praise for a team trying to prove it belongs in the Super Bowl conversation.
According to Walder, Detroit’s best move was signing veteran cornerback D.J. Reed, a player expected to bring more stability and playmaking to the secondary. But where the Lions drew criticism was in the NFL Draft — specifically, selecting Tyleik Williams in the first round and trading up to grab wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa in the third.
> “At least according to ESPN’s Draft Day Predictor, the Lions reached in the first round… then made a severe reach in Round 3 for TeSlaa,” Walder wrote.
That type of criticism isn’t new for GM Brad Holmes, who’s often gone against the grain during the draft. But as Walder notes, just because it’s worked in the past doesn’t make it good long-term process — and it’s something to watch if those picks don’t produce.
Then there’s the coaching situation.
The Lions lost both of their highly respected coordinators this offseason — a sign of their previous success, yes, but also a serious challenge for head coach Dan Campbell, who now must rely on new OC John Morton (formerly with the Broncos) and first-time DC Kelvin Sheppard, promoted from linebackers coach.
> “Did Dan Campbell hire well again?” Walder asks. “Those answers could define Detroit’s 2025 season.”
But it’s not all bad news. Despite the changes on the sidelines, the core of the Lions’ roster remains intact. Quarterback Jared Goff, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, and tackle Penei Sewell all return. There’s still continuity on the field, even if there’s transition off of it.
As for fans, the real test begins in Week 1 when Detroit travels to face the rival Green Bay Packers on the road. Until then, the talk continues — good, bad, and everything in between.
Bumps in the Road: Lions Lose Coordinators, Catch Heat Over Draft Picks
