The Detroit Lions are entering a crucial offseason following a disappointing conclusion to the 2024 campaign.
After beginning the year with Super Bowl aspirations, Detroit’s season ended in the Divisional Round with a loss to the Washington Commanders. Now, general manager Brad Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell must make the right moves to push the team closer to a championship.
With key roster decisions looming, the Lions’ leadership will have to navigate difficult choices while keeping the team competitive for deep playoff runs.
Here are five major questions facing the organization this offseason.
Who Gets Extensions?
Several key players are set to enter the final year of their contracts, including members of the 2022 draft class who are now eligible for extensions. Aidan Hutchinson, Jameson Williams, and Kerby Joseph could all be in line for significant new deals.
While Hutchinson and Williams have the benefit of fifth-year options as former first-round picks, Joseph is heading into the final year of his rookie contract in 2025. Holmes will need to determine how to approach these extensions, as all three players have proven to be vital pieces of the team’s core.
Detroit has already established a precedent for rewarding homegrown talent, as Amon-Ra St. Brown, Penei Sewell, Jared Goff, Alim McNeill, and Taylor Decker all received lucrative extensions in 2024. However, with cap space becoming tighter, the Lions will have to carefully balance their long-term financial commitments.
Beyond the 2022 draft class, veterans like Alex Anzalone and Kalif Raymond are also entering the final year of their current deals, adding to the complexity of Detroit’s contract decisions.
With league revenues increasing and the salary cap expected to rise, the Lions will have some flexibility—but not unlimited resources—making this a pivotal offseason for long-term roster management.
How Will the Defense Be Addressed?
Injuries took a major toll on the Lions’ defense in 2024, leaving the unit shorthanded and struggling without Aidan Hutchinson leading the pass rush. As a result, Detroit finished 20th in total defense, exposing areas that need improvement.
While Hutchinson’s return in 2025 will provide a boost, Detroit must decide how aggressively to address its pass-rushing depth. The secondary also faced challenges, though the team has a solid safety duo and rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold will enter his second year with valuable experience.
With injuries playing a major role in last season’s struggles, the front office must evaluate whether internal improvements will be enough or if outside reinforcements are needed to solidify the defense.
Holmes and Campbell face a critical decision: invest heavily in upgrades or trust that a healthier roster can rebound and perform at a higher level.
