As the dust settles from the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency quiets down, the Detroit Lions have constructed what many analysts are calling one of the most complete rosters in franchise history. Entering the summer months, the team now turns its focus toward training camp, where critical position battles and depth chart evaluations will shape the final 53-man roster.
This article dives deep into each positional group, analyzing current depth, looming competitions, and how the Lions’ off-season moves affect the trajectory of the team as they aim for a deep playoff run.
Quarterback (QB)
Starter: Jared Goff
Backups: Hendon Hooker, Nate Sudfeld
Analysis: Goff remains entrenched as the starter after a strong 2024 campaign. The real intrigue lies in Hendon Hooker, who could push Sudfeld off the roster if he shows poise and readiness as the primary backup. Hooker’s development is being closely monitored as a potential future starter.
Running Back (RB)
Starters: Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery
Depth: Mohamed Ibrahim, Kye Robichaux (UDFA), Anthony Tyus (UDFA)
Analysis: The one-two punch of Gibbs and Montgomery is among the league’s best, offering a balance of speed and power. The battle for RB3 is wide open, with undrafted free agents hoping to make a splash on special teams to earn a roster spot.
Wide Receiver (WR)
Top Targets: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams
Depth: Kalif Raymond, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Antoine Green, Isaac TeSlaa (R), Jackson Meeks (UDFA), Jakobie Keeney-James (UDFA)
Key Battle: WR5 and WR6 spots
Analysis: St. Brown is the engine of the passing game, while Williams must prove he can be consistent. The back-end of the WR group is competitive, with rookie Isaac TeSlaa needing to justify his surprise third-round selection over higher-rated prospects. Special teams performance will be a key differentiator here.
Tight End (TE)
Starters: Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright
Depth: James Mitchell, Caden Prieskorn (UDFA), Zach Horton (UDFA)
Key Battle: TE3
Analysis: LaPorta is a rising star, and Wright is a dependable blocker. The TE3 role is open to Mitchell or one of the UDFAs, who must prove value in both blocking and special teams to earn a place.
Offensive Line (OL)
Starters:
LT: Taylor Decker
LG: Jonah Jackson
C: Frank Ragnow
RG: Tate Ratledge (R)
RT: Penei Sewell
Depth: Halapoulivaati Vaitai, Matt Nelson, Colby Sorsdal, Germain Ifedi
Key Battle: 9th/10th OL spots
Analysis: With the addition of rookie Tate Ratledge, the line looks formidable. Ratledge could push Vaitai out of the starting five. Depth is solid but the last one or two spots will come down to positional flexibility and health.
Defensive Line (DL)
Interior: Alim McNeill, Tyleik Williams (R), Levi Onwuzurike, Isaiah Buggs
Edge: Aidan Hutchinson, Josh Paschal, James Houston, John Cominsky
Key Battle: Backup DT and Edge Rusher depth
Analysis: The addition of Williams provides a massive upgrade in interior strength and run defense. On the edge, the group is talented but top-heavy. If Za’Darius Smith doesn’t return, expect Detroit to explore late free agency or rely heavily on Houston to step up.
Linebackers (LB)
Starters: Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell
Depth: Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, Jalen Reeves-Maybin
Analysis: This group has improved cohesion and flexibility. Campbell is expected to take a leap, and Rodriguez continues to contribute on special teams. The top four are fairly locked in, with little room for surprises unless an undrafted player excels in camp.
Cornerbacks (CB)
Starters: Carlton Davis, Brian Branch (slot), Emmanuel Moseley
Depth: Cam Sutton, Khalil Dorsey, Chase Lucas
Key Battle: CB4–CB6
Analysis: Health will determine a lot here. If Moseley returns to form and Davis holds up, this unit could be elite. Sutton’s role may vary, and Dorsey/Lucas will need to fight for depth roles.
Safeties (S)
Starters: Kerby Joseph, Ifeatu Melifonwu
Depth: Dan Jackson (R), Tracy Walker (if re-signed)
Key Battle: S3
Analysis: Joseph’s extension solidifies his role as a defensive cornerstone. The Lions will be watching rookie Dan Jackson closely, especially on special teams. A veteran signing (like Walker) could add depth and experience.
Special Teams
Kicker: Michael Badgley
Punter: Jack Fox
Long Snapper: Scott Daly
Returners: Kalif Raymond, possibly Jameson Williams
Analysis: A stable and experienced unit. No major battles expected unless injuries occur or return duties shift.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Detroit Lions are entering a new era—not of rebuilding, but of contending. They boast a strong mix of veteran leadership and young talent, especially along the lines, and are strategically positioned for success. The real challenge will be choosing from quality depth and managing expectations, particularly after a draft that raised some eyebrows but also introduced promising players.
Position battles in camp—especially at WR, TE3, and defensive back—will be fierce. With a near-complete roster, head coach Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes have the luxury (and burden) of making tough cuts. If the team stays healthy and younger players continue to ascend, the Lions could emerge as legitimate NFC contenders this fall.
