The Detroit Lions are loaded with talent heading into 2025, and expectations are sky-high. With one of the NFL’s most complete rosters, there’s no shortage of names who could take over a game. But when it comes to who the real x-factor is this season, Pro Football Focus might’ve gotten it wrong.
PFF recently named Aidan Hutchinson as the Lions’ biggest x-factor, pointing to his dominant pass-rush numbers before his injury last year. He racked up 45 pressures in just five games and was winning nearly 39% of his rushes — a crazy number. No doubt, Hutch is a monster, and his return to full health will matter a ton. But is he really an “x-factor”? Most would say he’s a given.
The real x-factor? Cornerback Terrion Arnold.
After a quiet rookie season filled with some growing pains and penalties, Arnold isn’t exactly the fan favorite right now. But this offseason, he’s been locked in — grinding to improve and showing early signs of leadership. And let’s be honest: if Arnold levels up in Year 2, that could completely change the outlook for a Detroit secondary that’s been shaky in recent years.
He’s not the obvious pick, and that’s exactly why he is the x-factor. If Arnold steps up, the Lions defense could finally be as balanced and dangerous as their offense. Don’t sleep on the bounce-back.
PFF Gets It Wrong: The Lions’ Real X-Factor for 2025 Might Surprise You
