The Detroit Lions have wrapped up their final week of organized team activities (OTAs) and now shift their focus to mandatory minicamp, one of the last opportunities for players to impress the coaching staff before the summer break.
Few players have more at stake this week than defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike.
Selected by Detroit in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Onwuzurike showed promise early in his career before a serious back injury derailed his development. The former Washington standout finally enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2024, recording 28 tackles and a career-best 1.5 sacks while earning recognition as one of Pro Football Focus’ top-rated interior defenders.
His strong performance earned him a one-year contract extension worth up to $5.5 million. However, concerns about his durability resurfaced when he suffered an ACL injury that required offseason surgery, putting his future with the franchise in question.
As Onwuzurike continues his recovery, the Lions have added depth along the defensive line, creating increased competition for roster spots. Tyler Lacy, Skyler Gill-Howard, Aidan Keanaaina, and several other defensive linemen are competing for valuable roles behind projected starters Alim McNeill and rookie Tyleik Williams.
During OTAs, reports indicated that Lacy received reps ahead of Onwuzurike, an early sign that the battle for playing time remains wide open.
The financial aspect also adds another layer of intrigue. While Onwuzurike is guaranteed $1.21 million, performance incentives could increase his earnings to $5.5 million, making him an expensive option if he slips down the depth chart.
Detroit has already shown a willingness to move on from former draft picks when injuries and inconsistent production become concerns, as evidenced by the team’s decision to part ways with Josh Paschal.
Lacy, Onwuzurike’s primary challenger, appeared in 10 games with four starts last season, finishing with 21 tackles and one sack. While Onwuzurike provided more value as a pass rusher, Lacy proved capable against the run and remains a legitimate contender for a larger role.
As mandatory minicamp begins, Onwuzurike finds himself closer to the roster bubble than many expected for a former second-round pick. To secure his place on the 2026 Detroit Lions roster, he must prove he is fully recovered from ACL surgery and capable of forming a productive defensive tackle rotation alongside McNeill and Williams.
The pressure is on, and minicamp could play a major role in determining his future in Detroit.
