“The nucleus and the important ingredients are mostly still here”
NFL Hall of Famer Barry Sanders remains confident in the Detroit Lions’ Super Bowl aspirations, even after the recent departure of key coaching staff. Speaking with Newsweek while promoting his new documentary The Making of a Heart Attack, Sanders reflected on the Lions’ resurgence and shared optimism about the team’s future despite losing both offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
“They were a big part of our success,” Sanders acknowledged. “We know what both those guys are made of. We certainly will miss Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson.” Both coaches played instrumental roles in transforming the Lions into one of the NFL’s top teams over the past two seasons. Johnson helped unlock quarterback Jared Goff’s potential and crafted a high-powered offense, while Glenn led a tough, aggressive defensive unit.
But Sanders made it clear that while the coaching changes are significant, the foundation of the team remains strong. “I feel the nucleus and the important ingredients are mostly still here,” he said.
Sanders pointed to a number of rising stars and established veterans who have become cornerstones of the Lions’ success. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, safety Brian Branch, and defensive tackle Alim McNeill represent a youthful, talented defense poised to grow even stronger. On the offensive side, Sanders highlighted the leadership and performance of Jared Goff, the explosiveness of wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, the dynamic backfield duo of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, and the emergence of tight end Sam LaPorta.
This core group helped lead the Lions to the NFC Championship Game last season — their first appearance since 1991 — and expectations remain high heading into the 2025 NFL season. While questions linger about how the new coordinators will fill the void left by Johnson and Glenn, Sanders believes that the culture and chemistry in Detroit are strong enough to carry the team forward.
“The pieces we have on offense and defense are still very solid,” Sanders said. “We have every reason to believe we can continue what we’ve started.”
With their former star watching closely and backing their chances, the Lions will enter the new season not as underdogs, but as legitimate Super Bowl contenders. The road won’t be easy, but the belief inside and outside the locker room is stronger than ever.
