By Moses Joshua 
Detroit eyes continuity and leadership heading into the 2025 season.
A Challenging End to a Promising Season
The Detroit Lions entered the postseason with aspirations of reaching the Super Bowl, only to face a crushing loss to the Washington Commanders in the Divisional Round. With the offseason now in full swing, major changes have already rocked the franchise. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn have both departed, leaving GM Brad Holmes with critical decisions to make.
Despite the setbacks, Holmes has shown a commitment to strengthening the team for the future. During a recent press conference, he hinted at the possibility of re-signing two impactful free agents: cornerback Carlton Davis III and guard Kevin Zeitler.
Carlton Davis III: Stability for a Shifting Secondary
When Detroit traded a third-round pick to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last March to acquire Carlton Davis III, expectations were high. Davis delivered, recording 56 tackles, 11 pass deflections, and two interceptions in just 13 games. Holmes highlighted Davis’s performance during the season, noting that he exceeded expectations.
“I thought he played better this year than he did the year before…in Tampa. … I thought we got what we wanted to get,” Holmes remarked.
Unfortunately, Davis’s season was cut short after a Week 15 jaw fracture against the Buffalo Bills landed him on injured reserve. His absence was felt in the playoffs, and with a new defensive coordinator set to take the reins, retaining Davis could be crucial for maintaining continuity in the secondary.
Kevin Zeitler: Veteran Presence in the Trenches
At 34 years old, Kevin Zeitler proved age is just a number with his standout performance in Detroit’s offensive line. Signed to a one-year, $6 million deal, Zeitler became one of the league’s top guards. Pro Football Focus ranked him fifth among 135 eligible guards with an 86.8 overall grade, including a stellar 87.2 run-blocking grade.
Zeitler’s consistency was remarkable—he allowed just five sacks all season and committed only two penalties. Holmes acknowledged his value as a stabilizing force on the offensive line, a sentiment echoed by many analysts.
A Strategic Move for 2025
Bringing back both Carlton Davis III and Kevin Zeitler would bolster the Lions’ roster heading into the 2025 season. Davis could provide much-needed stability and leadership in a secondary facing potential changes, while Zeitler’s veteran expertise would ensure the offensive line remains a strength.
The Lions’ offseason priorities are clear: maintain the core contributors who helped them achieve success in 2024 while navigating the challenges of coaching changes. Re-signing Davis and Zeitler could be the first steps toward keeping Detroit in contention for a deep playoff run next season.
As Holmes put it, “We’re not afraid to make veteran additions. But continuity and leadership matter just as much.”
The Lions’ fanbase will be watching closely as these decisions unfold, hoping for another shot at Super Bowl glory in 2025.