By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions entered the 2024 season with high hopes and Super Bowl aspirations. After a franchise-best 15-win regular season and securing the NFC’s top seed, expectations were through the roof. But their dreams were shattered in a gut-wrenching divisional-round playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.
It was a bitter defeat, especially after all the progress the Lions had made under head coach Dan Campbell. Despite playing at home and having the advantage throughout the postseason, the Lions’ weaknesses were laid bare, particularly their pass rush, cornerback play, and offensive line.
Defensive Breakdown
The Lions failed to sack Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels even once. He had ample time to scan the field, completing 71% of his passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns. The Lions’ defense simply couldn’t disrupt his rhythm, and Daniels made them pay by dismantling their secondary.
The performance highlighted serious issues with Detroit’s defense, ultimately costing defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn his job. The front office now faces the challenge of finding a way to strengthen the defensive unit, especially at EDGE and cornerback.
Offensive Line Struggles
On the offensive side, left guard Graham Glasgow struggled all year and had a particularly rough playoff game. He allowed six quarterback hurries, nine pressures, a sack, and even committed a penalty. Glasgow’s Pro Football Focus (PFF) pass-blocking grade for the game was a dismal 10.2, with an overall grade of 53.0.
Over the course of the regular season, Glasgow allowed 36 pressures and four sacks, earning a PFF overall grade of just 57.9, ranking 85th among 135 guards. At 32, with two years left on his contract, it’s uncertain whether Glasgow will remain part of the team’s long-term plans.
The Lions may also need a new right guard. Kevin Zeitler delivered a solid 2024 campaign, earning an impressive 87.2 PFF run-blocking grade and 86.8 overall. However, the veteran will turn 35 in 2025 and is set to become an unrestricted free agent. Whether Detroit brings him back remains to be seen.
Building from Within vs. Big Spending
With just a few roster adjustments, Detroit is on the verge of a legitimate Super Bowl run. While there’s speculation that general manager Brad Holmes might break his usual conservative approach by making a blockbuster trade for a star pass-rusher like Myles Garrett or Maxx Crosby, that seems unlikely. Such deals would likely require multiple high-value draft picks, something Holmes has historically been reluctant to part with.
Instead, it’s more probable that the Lions will continue their approach of building through the draft and making calculated free-agent signings. Holmes’ strategy of developing young talent has paid dividends so far, and there’s no indication that he plans to change course.
Young Talent Waiting in the Wings
The Lions have several promising young players who could help fill their roster gaps. At cornerback, 2024 draft picks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw are brimming with potential. If either or both can develop into reliable No. 1 corners, it would be a game-changer for the team, especially if veteran Carlton Davis departs in free agency.
On the offensive line, Christian Mahogany is a strong candidate to step up. He ended the season on a high note and filled in admirably for Zeitler during the playoff loss. If Mahogany can carry that momentum forward, he could be the answer at either guard position.
Addressing the Pass-Rush Dilemma
The pass rush, however, may require an external solution. The Lions have lacked a reliable partner for Aidan Hutchinson since drafting him in 2022. Finding that complementary pass-rusher is crucial for the team’s success moving forward. Holmes might need to step outside his comfort zone and make a more aggressive move to upgrade this part of the roster.
Staying the Course
Despite these challenges, there’s something to be said for sticking to the current blueprint. Holmes has built a strong core in Detroit, drafting stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Hutchinson, and Jahmyr Gibbs. The team also has several unproven but promising players, including offensive lineman Giovanni Manu and defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo.
If these young players can take the next step in their development, the Lions will be in a strong position to contend in 2025 without splurging in free agency. Holmes’ commitment to organic growth and player development might be the winning formula after all.
Detroit’s journey may have hit a roadblock in 2024, but the foundation for long-term success is in place. With the right moves and continued progress from their young core, the Lions’ Super Bowl dreams remain well within reach.