By Blessing 
The NFL world has gathered in Florida for the annual owners’ meetings, where executives, coaches, and media alike are looking for insights into the league’s future. As for the Detroit Lions, there are five key questions that could shape their direction for the 2025 season.
What Will Brad Holmes Say About Free Agency and the Draft?
Lions general manager Brad Holmes will be addressing the media for the first time since free agency wrapped up. His approach this offseason was calculated—retaining core players, adding a few key role players, and securing a potential game-changing cornerback in DJ Reed.
Holmes’ thoughts on the defensive line will be a major topic. Why didn’t the team bring back Za’Darius Smith? Is there still a chance for a reunion with the veteran pass rusher? Or does the front office feel confident in the current group, banking on better injury luck in 2025?
Another crucial discussion point: how Holmes views the incoming defensive line prospects in the draft. Did his confidence in this year’s draft class influence his decision-making in free agency? We’ll get some clarity when he speaks in Florida.
How Does Dan Campbell Feel About His New Coaching Staff?
The last time head coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media, the team had just finalized several new hires, including coordinators John Morton (offense) and Kelvin Sheppard (defense).
Campbell has praised the new additions and how they align with the team’s culture, but now that some time has passed, how does he feel about the way things are shaping up? With OTAs and training camp on the horizon, there could be early signs of what changes are coming on both sides of the ball.
While Campbell won’t be giving away any trade secrets, it’ll be interesting to hear if there are any philosophical shifts in play-calling, scheme adjustments, or new wrinkles being added to the Lions’ game plan.
What Are the Lions’ Thoughts on Their Proposed Rule Changes?
As they’ve done in the past, the Lions put forth multiple rule change proposals for consideration.
One of their main proposals is eliminating automatic first downs for defensive holding or illegal contact. They also suggested tweaking playoff seeding so that wild-card teams with better records could be ranked higher than division winners, a move that could bring more fairness to the postseason structure.
Additionally, Detroit wants more flexibility with roster management after training camp, particularly regarding how injuries impact final roster spots.
For any of these proposals to pass, they’ll need approval from at least 24 of the 32 ownership groups. We’ll find out if the Lions can gain traction in pushing these changes forward.
What Other Rule Changes Could Be Coming?
Beyond Detroit’s proposals, the league is also discussing potential adjustments to the kickoff rule. One of the leading ideas is moving the touchback spot to the 35-yard line in hopes of encouraging more kick returns under the new format.
There’s also talk of modifying the onside kick rule. Currently, teams can only attempt an onside kick in the fourth quarter, but a proposed change would allow onside kicks at any point in the game. Teams would still need to declare their intent beforehand, but this change could lead to more strategic opportunities.
Are Any Changes Coming to the Business Side of the Lions’ Operations?
Team president Rod Wood will also be available to speak with the media before the meetings conclude. Last year, his discussions centered around the team’s jerseys and the situation with former cornerback Cam Sutton.
This year, questions might focus on potential upgrades to Ford Field, changes in the team’s operations, or investments in performance facilities. These media sessions with Wood are rare, so it’s always an opportunity to gain insight into the Lions’ long-term business plans.
Looking Ahead
With free agency mostly settled and the draft approaching, the Lions are in a crucial phase of the offseason. The decisions made now, whether on the roster, coaching staff, or even proposed rule changes, will have a lasting impact on the team’s future. As the owners’ meetings unfold, we’ll be watching closely to see what insights emerge for Detroit’s 2025 season.