The Detroit Lions entered the 2025 offseason coming off a successful but ultimately unfulfilling 15-2 season that ended in a disappointing Divisional Round loss. With expectations at an all-time high, the Lions and general manager Brad Holmes faced a pivotal period. The front office had to navigate the departures of key personnel, address major roster shakeups, and manage a tight salary cap situation, all while trying to put the team In a position to take the next step. The resulting offseason was marked by difficult decisions, surprising retirements, significant changes to the coaching staff, and a deliberate draft strategy, making it one of the most consequential offseasons in recent memory.
Coaching carousel and coordination changes
The most immediate challenge for head coach Dan Campbell was a significant reshuffling of his coaching staff. After orchestrating one of the NFL’s most dominant offenses, coordinator Ben Johnson departed for a head coaching role. He was joined by former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, who also left for a top job. To replace them, Campbell turned to experienced offensive mind John Morton and promoted defensive assistant Kelvin Sheppard. For an offense that thrived on continuity and chemistry, the loss of Johnson was a major blow, and the transition to a new offensive leader will be one of the top storylines to watch throughout the 2025 season.
The surprising retirement of a stalwart
The Lions’ offseason took a truly shocking turn with the unexpected retirement of Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow in June. Known for playing through numerous injuries, Ragnow’s abrupt departure left a gaping hole in the middle of Detroit’s elite offensive line. The Lions are now tasking veteran Graham Glasgow, who has experience playing center, with making the difficult transition back to the position. While Glasgow is a capable player, replacing a leader and talent of Ragnow’s caliber is nearly impossible and significantly altered the team’s offensive line dynamic.
Cap crunch and free agency overhaul
Despite possessing a considerable amount of cap space early in the offseason, the Lions had to make tough financial decisions while facing a potential cap deficit in 2026. To free up future funds, the team released pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, who finished the 2024 season as a starter. While there was speculation about a possible reunion, Holmes indicated that it was unlikely. Detroit also saw the departure of veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, who signed with the Titans. To fill these gaps, the team pursued veteran replacements:
Cornerback D.J. Reed was signed to a three-year deal after the team lost starter Carlton Davis III to the Patriots. Reed’s ability to cover and tackle was a welcome addition to a secondary that was decimated by injuries in 2024.
Linebacker Derrick Barnes was extended on a three-year, $25.5 million deal. The move locks in a key cultural fit and a productive player who unfortunately missed time in 2024 with a knee injury.
Veteran players like Kyle Allen (QB), Roy Lopez (DT), and Avonte Maddox (CB) were brought in to provide depth and competition at various positions.
A bold and focused draft strategy
Brad Holmes’ draft philosophy once again revolved around targeting specific players and not shying away from trading up. The Lions used a concentrated approach, drafting two defensive linemen, two offensive linemen, and two wide receivers.
First-round DT Tyleik Williams from Ohio State fills a critical need on the defensive interior, especially with Alim McNeill recovering from a torn ACL.
Second-round G Tate Ratledge and fifth-round G Miles Frazier, both from powerhouse schools (Georgia and LSU), addressed the offensive line depth concerns exacerbated by Ragnow’s retirement.
The team also traded up for third-round WR Isaac TeSlaa, a big-bodied weapon from Arkansas, who quickly impressed in the preseason and ultimately made veteran Tim Patrick expendable.
Other late-round picks, like EDGE Ahmed Hassanein, a sixth-rounder from Boise State, were unfortunately waived due to injury, but the draft as a whole demonstrated Holmes’ aggressive approach to acquiring talent. But has guaranteed the Hassanein will return to the roster.
The road ahead
While the offseason had its share of challenges, the Lions emerged with a retooled roster ready to contend. The success of the season will hinge on the performance of the new coaching staff, the ability of players like Glasgow to step up into larger roles, and the immediate impact of rookies like Tyleik Williams and Isaac TeSlaa. With a strong core of returning talent and a refreshed outlook, the 2025 Lions hope to prove that the recent turmoil was simply a necessary step on their path toward a Super Bowl championship.
