One of the Detroit Lions’ most vocal supporters is expressing serious concerns about the team’s chances in 2025.
Despite being favored to win a third straight NFC North title, Detroit’s offseason moves — or lack thereof — have some questioning whether the Lions can truly contend for a Super Bowl.
Marc Ryan of 97.1 The Ticket didn’t hold back during his July 5 show, arguing that the Lions failed to do enough this offseason to stay in the championship mix.
“I can’t avoid this anymore. I don’t think the Lions had a good offseason in any way, shape, or form,” Ryan said. “They tried to move up in the draft for James Pearce and failed. Za’Darius Smith? Still missing. They did nothing to improve a pass rush that ranked 23rd in sacks last year. And who knows what version of Aidan Hutchinson we’re getting back?”
Ryan also raised concerns about how Jared Goff will fare without former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who is now the Chicago Bears’ head coach.
“Everyone knows Goff’s best football came with Johnson. While there’s some history of teams replacing both coordinators without a major drop-off, I thought Johnson was key to Goff’s success,” he added.
The Lions’ offensive line became an even bigger question mark after longtime center Frank Ragnow abruptly retired in June, along with departures like Kevin Zeitler.
“The offensive line could be downright offensive with everything that’s been lost,” Ryan said. “And let’s not forget: they’re facing the toughest road schedule in NFL history.”
Ryan closed by welcoming criticism if the Lions prove him wrong and win it all.
“If they win the Super Bowl, I want everyone to give me hell,” he said. “But I don’t see them as contenders this year. I think 2025 is a transition season for Detroit — figuring out the offensive line, the new coordinator, and whether Jameson Williams is part of the long-term plan.”
Concerns Mount for Lions After Frank Ragnow’s Retirement, Offseason Moves
