By Mmesoma 
DETROIT — The Detroit Lions are riding a wave of newfound success and stability under head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. But as the team looks to take another step forward in 2025, some familiar faces may find their way back to the Motor City.
Whether it’s veteran leadership, locker room chemistry, or just unfinished business in Honolulu Blue, several former Lions could be prime candidates for a return next season. Here’s a look at a few names that fans — and the front office — might want to keep an eye on as free agency and trade talks heat up.
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1. D’Andre Swift – RB
After being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles and showing flashes of brilliance, D’Andre Swift will hit free agency in 2025. With Detroit’s run game evolving and injuries always a concern, Swift could offer explosive depth or even reclaim a feature role depending on how the current backfield shakes out.
> Why it makes sense: Familiar with the system, versatile, and still only in his mid-20s.
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2. Kenny Golladay – WR
Once a fan favorite and 1,000-yard receiver in Detroit, Golladay’s career stalled in New York. But after taking a year off and reportedly training for a comeback, a low-risk reunion with the Lions could be mutually beneficial — especially if he’s willing to accept a team-friendly deal to revive his career.
> Why it makes sense: Veteran presence, red-zone threat, and strong connection with the fan base.
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3. Amani Oruwariye – CB
Oruwariye had a breakout season in 2021 before struggling in his final year in Detroit. With the Lions continuing to rebuild and reinforce their secondary, a return from a more experienced and motivated Oruwariye could add valuable depth.
> Why it makes sense: Knows the culture, fits the defensive mindset, and has something to prove.
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4. Jamaal Williams – RB
Williams became a cult hero in Detroit with his infectious personality and 17-touchdown season in 2022. After a quieter stint with the Saints, a return to Detroit could rekindle the magic — and bring back the good vibes in the locker room.
> Why it makes sense: Fan favorite, short-yardage specialist, and strong locker room leader.
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5. Romeo Okwara – EDGE
Released after multiple injuries, Okwara has been quietly rehabbing and could be a rotational pass-rusher option if healthy. With Detroit always hungry for edge depth, bringing back a known commodity could be a smart depth move.
> Why it makes sense: Familiarity, flashes of past dominance, and a team-friendly deal is possible.
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The Bottom Line
The Lions are no longer in full rebuild mode — they’re contenders. That means every roster move counts, and bringing back former players who already understand the team’s culture, expectations, and system could provide a valuable edge.
Don’t be surprised if some of these names pop up in Detroit headlines again in 2025. After all, in the NFL, sometimes the second time’s the charm.
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