Lions Focus on Retaining Core Players and Development After Early Playoff Exit
After a bitter end to a stellar 15-win regular season, Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell quickly turned his focus to the future, refusing to dwell on the team’s early exit from the NFC divisional round against the Washington Commanders. Rather than making major moves in free agency, the Lions opted to keep their core intact and build on the progress they made during the 2024 season.
“We had 15 wins, but we played bad at the wrong time,” Campbell explained during the annual league meetings. “We did it right. We just have to play better in those key moments. But we can’t stay the same. We all know that.” The message was clear: the team must evolve but remain focused on the strengths that led to their successful regular season.
Detroit’s free agency strategy centered around re-signing key players who were instrumental to their success. Among these were defensive end Marcus Davenport, linebacker Derrick Barnes, defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, and wide receiver Tim Patrick. The Lions also made a notable addition in former New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed, who was signed to a three-year, $48 million deal. Reed will help bolster the secondary after the departure of Carlton Davis III, who joined the New England Patriots.
Despite some hopes from fans for splashy signings, the Lions stuck to their plan. General Manager Brad Holmes acknowledged that, financially, the team wasn’t in a position to be big spenders in free agency. “We have financial responsibilities,” Holmes said, referring to upcoming contract extensions for star players like All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph and edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. The Lions are also planning to exercise the fifth-year option for wide receiver Jameson Williams.
Holmes expressed satisfaction with how free agency unfolded, citing that they were able to accomplish more than initially expected despite budget constraints. “We didn’t compromise and get a prospect that we’re warm on,” he said. “We got the guys we really wanted.”
The Lions are now looking to the draft to address remaining needs, with the 28th overall pick in the first round. Both Holmes and Campbell have emphasized the importance of retaining their drafted players for the long haul. Campbell explained that the team’s draft picks are particularly valuable because the organization has spent years evaluating their character and work ethic, building strong relationships that contribute to their success.
With a focus on better health and the development of young talent, the Lions are optimistic about 2025. Last season, injuries played a major role in their early playoff exit, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, where the team had a league-high 21 players on injured reserve, including 16 defensive players. The team is hoping for a healthier 2025 and is considering adjustments to their practice schedule to avoid another injury-riddled season.
President and CEO Rod Wood expressed his commitment to addressing these challenges, even pushing for a mid-season bye to help manage the team’s schedule more effectively. “We’re looking at all that stuff,” he said, ensuring that the Lions are doing everything possible to improve their chances for success in 2025.
As the offseason progresses, Detroit is focused on continuity and internal growth, with the goal of returning to the playoffs stronger than ever.