As the 2025 training camp kicks off, the Detroit Lions face a glaring vulnerability: their defensive front. The loss of Levi Onwuzurike for the entire season due to lingering ACL surgery has left a massive hole at defensive tackle—Onwuzurike logged the most DL snaps for Detroit in 2024 . This comes on top of existing injuries to Alim McNeill, Mekhi Wingo, and Josh Paschal, significantly weakening the interior of the defense .
Coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the setback but expressed confidence in rookie Tyleik Williams stepping into the rotation . However, questions remain whether the rest of the roster can compensate. Detroit’s pass rush ranked just 23rd in total sacks in 2024 despite a top-five blitz rate, exposing a lack of reliable depth when Hutchinson was sidelined .
Compounding the problem, the Lions did not acquire a premier edge rusher in the offseason, leaving weight on veterans with injury history like Marcus Davenport and Al‑Quadin Muhammad. Analysts and fans alike have voiced concerns, with some urging the front office to pursue veteran options such as Trey Hendrickson to shore up the edge .
Campbell has downplayed alarm, noting that reinforcements are expected and expressing faith in existing depth including rookies and rotation players . But with a brutal schedule ahead—11 games against 2024 playoff teams—the Lions must solve this weakness quickly .
Another concern heading into camp is internal stability. With both offensive and defensive coordinators new this season, timing and execution become more critical. Will Kelvin Sheppard and John Morton be able to maintain the high standards set by their predecessors? Combined with injury-plagued depth and positional shakeups on the O‑line, Detroit’s camp is shaping up to be a pivotal period for the franchise .
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🔎 Key Takeaways
Area Concern
Defensive Line Depth Onwuzurike out; McNeill, Wingo, Paschal also sidelined. Must rely on young depth.
Pass Rush Only 37 sacks in 2024—needs reliable reinforcements, especially beyond Aidan Hutchinson.
Off-Field Moves High priority trade or signing at edge rusher needed.
Coaching Transition New OC/DC must click early or defensive instability may result.
Schedule Difficulty 11 games vs. playoff teams; any defensive weakness gets exposed quickly.
