Detroit Lions Update: Progress and Talks from the Past Week (May 17–24, 2025)
The Detroit Lions have been making strides in their offseason preparations as they gear up for the 2025 NFL season, coming off a strong 15-2 regular season in 2024. Over the past week, the team has focused on offseason workouts, roster developments, and addressing key needs, while media and fan discussions have centered on player recoveries, draft signings, and potential free-agent targets. Here’s a detailed look at the Lions’ progress and the talks surrounding the team.
The Lions continued their offseason workout program, with highlights showcasing the team’s focus on physical conditioning and player development. Offensive tackle Penei Sewell, a cornerstone of Detroit’s elite offensive line, emphasized his goal to get “bigger and stronger” while maintaining speed and conditioning, a development that has fans excited about his potential to dominate in 2025. Sewell, named the best player under 25 by Pro Football Focus for the second straight year, is reportedly “moving big weight” in training, signaling his intent to elevate his already All-Pro performance.
Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson provided the most significant update, confirming on May 22 that he is fully cleared from the fractured tibia and fibula that ended his 2024 season in Week 6. Hutchinson, a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year before his injury, is expected to participate in OTAs and be ready for training camp in July. His return is a massive boost for Detroit’s defensive line, and posts on X from insiders like
highlighted optimism about a potential contract extension, given his projected $19.78 million salary for 2026 under his fifth-year option.
The Lions also advanced their draft pick signings, with first-round pick Tyleik Williams, a defensive lineman, inking his rookie deal on May 21. Williams has already impressed veteran DJ Reader, who praised his intelligence, suggesting the rookie could contribute early to a stacked defensive front. Third-round wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa also signed his contract, bringing a 6-foot-4, athletic target to Detroit’s offense. TeSlaa endeared himself to fans by expressing his hatred for the Green Bay Packers, aligning with the Lions’ passionate fanbase.
Coaching staff adjustments and player roles were key talking points. Tight end Sam LaPorta, despite a statistical drop-off in 2024, expressed confidence in new tight ends coach Tyler Roehl and emphasized the team’s “unfinished business” after last season’s playoff loss. LaPorta’s focus on team success over individual stats reflects Detroit’s balanced offensive approach.
Offensive line coach Hank Fraley highlighted competition at the guard spots, with rookie Tate Ratledge, a seventh-round pick, being cross-trained at multiple positions. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard and run game coordinator Kacy Rodgers also shared insights on their units, with Rodgers noting the opportunity to sharpen his skills in Detroit after six years in Tampa Bay. These updates underscore the Lions’ emphasis on versatility and depth.
The Lions’ need for a second edge rusher to complement Hutchinson remains a hot topic. Posts on X and media reports linked Detroit to high-profile pass rushers like Josh Sweat and D.J. Reed in free agency, with outlets like SideLion Report and Detroit Sports Nation suggesting the Lions are a top fit for these players. General manager Brad Holmes reportedly tried to trade up in the first round for an edge rusher but couldn’t finalize a deal, fueling speculation about aggressive moves in 2025 free agency.
A proposed playoff seeding rule change, initially pushed by the Lions, was another focal point. The team withdrew the proposal on May 22, as it lacked sufficient league support. The rule would have reshaped postseason landscapes, notably benefiting teams like the Chargers in 2024, but Detroit’s decision to nix it suggests a strategic pivot.
Fan sentiment on X remains overwhelmingly positive, with users like
and
buzzing about the team’s schedule, Hutchinson’s recovery, and roster moves. The Lions’ 2025 schedule, featuring 12 nationally televised games and a Christmas Day matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, has heightened excitement. Detroit is projected to win double-digit games for the third straight season, per DraftKings, and their joint practices with the Miami Dolphins in the preseason signal confidence in their preparation.
However, some concerns linger. Bleacher Report’s prediction of a 9-8 record was met with skepticism, as fans and analysts point to Detroit’s 15-2 finish in 2024 and returning core. Questions about coaching staff changes and secondary depth, particularly with Ennis Rakestraw’s role, were also raised, though the signing of Isaiah Thomas from Cincinnati’s practice squad adds intrigue.
The Lions are building momentum toward a highly anticipated 2025 season. Hutchinson’s clearance, Sewell’s physical gains, and the integration of rookies like Williams and TeSlaa bolster an already talented roster. Off-field talks about edge rushers and playoff proposals reflect Detroit’s ambition to compete for a Super Bowl. With OTAs underway and training camp on the horizon, the Lions are poised to maintain their status as NFC North contenders.