By Sunday 
A Tougher Road Ahead for Detroit
After an impressive 15-2 season, the Detroit Lions are set to enter 2025 with high expectations—but also significant challenges. With a revamped coaching staff and a tougher schedule, some analysts predict the team could face growing pains in Dan Campbell’s fifth season at the helm.
ESPN recently surveyed its analysts on which teams might regress in 2025, and three out of 13 picked the Lions. While Detroit remains a contender, some believe their success in 2024 leaves them with “the most room to fall.”
Coaching Changes Could Shake Things Up
One major concern is the loss of both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who have taken head coaching jobs elsewhere. Historically, such turnover has led to struggles, even for the most talented teams.
As Pamela Maldonado put it, “Losing both their offensive and defensive coordinators presents a major challenge, as history shows teams often struggle in similar situations.” While the Lions have built a deep and talented roster, the coaching transition could narrow the gap between them and the rest of the NFC North.
A Grueling Schedule and Mental Hurdles
Beyond coaching changes, the Lions also face a difficult road schedule filled with playoff-caliber opponents. Add in the emotional fatigue from back-to-back disappointing playoff exits, and some analysts believe Detroit could experience a slow start.
“When you are as good as the Lions were in 2024 (right up until that early playoff exit), your coaching staff gets raided,” noted NFL national reporter Lindsey Thiry. “So expect to see some growing pains early, and maybe some fatigue after failing in two straight emotional playoff runs.”
Can the Lions Prove the Doubters Wrong?
Despite these concerns, Detroit remains widely regarded as one of the top teams in the league. Their ability to sustain success will depend on the continued development of young stars and general manager Brad Holmes addressing key weaknesses.
Campbell has built a resilient culture, and while the road ahead may be challenging, the Lions have a chance to prove that last season wasn’t a peak, but rather a stepping stone toward even greater success.