The Detroit Lions have officially placed defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike on the Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the 2025 NFL season . The announcement came alongside a series of other preseason moves: veteran left tackle Taylor Decker, cornerback Khalil Dorsey, guard Miles Frazier, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, and defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo were all placed on the active/PUP list, while defensive end John Paschal and cornerback Stantley Thomas‑Oliver landed on the non-football injury list .
Onwuzurike’s setback is a blow to Detroit’s defensive front. After missing much of the 2022 season due to major back surgery, he returned strong in 2024—posting 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 13 QB hits in 16 games . The 27-year‑old inked a one‑year, $5.5 million deal this offseason, signaling the team’s confidence in his role for 2025 .
Moving forward, Detroit will rely on depth and adjust its rotation at defensive tackle during Onwuzurike’s absence. Other linemen and rotational players may be called upon to fill the void.
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What This Means for Detroit:
Impact Area Analysis
Depth at DT Onwuzurike’s absence removes a key rotational piece, increasing pressure on backups to step up early.
Season Start Risk Missing four games for a defensive lineman with pass‑rush upside could affect early-season momentum.
Health Strategy The flurry of PUP and injury list designations shows a cautious Lions approach, prioritizing player recovery and roster flexibility.
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Final Take:
Lions fans have reason to stay concerned—Onwuzurike’s injury history makes this a notable risk, and early-season pass rush depth will be crucial. How Detroit adjusts could define their defensive identity until he’s back.
Tough Blow in the Trenches: Onwuzurike to Miss Preseason and Beyond
