The Detroit Lions have suffered a major blow to their defensive front as defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike has officially been ruled out for the entire 2025 NFL season following ACL surgery. Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed the unfortunate news on July 20, marking a significant setback just as training camp gets underway.
Onwuzurike, a 2021 second-round draft pick, was coming off his most productive season in 2024, recording a career-high 11 starts and establishing himself as a versatile piece along the defensive line. His ability to shift between inside and outside positions gave the Lions valuable flexibility. However, the ACL injury abruptly halts his momentum and raises long-term questions about his future durability.
This is not the first injury battle for Onwuzurike, who missed the entire 2022 season due to a back issue that required surgery. Now, with another serious injury, the Lions are forced to reevaluate their defensive rotation heading into a highly anticipated 2025 campaign.
His absence compounds the defensive line challenges for Detroit, especially following the season-ending ACL injury to Alim McNeill suffered late last season. The Lions will now lean heavily on new additions and depth pieces to fill the void. First-round rookie Tyleik Williams is expected to take on an expanded role right away. Veteran contributors such as DJ Reader, Roy Lopez, and Josh Paschal will be vital in maintaining interior pressure.
The Lions also began training camp with several other players sidelined, including Taylor Decker, Mekhi Wingo, and Malcolm Rodriguez, adding to the injury woes on both sides of the ball.
Despite the setback, head coach Dan Campbell expressed confidence in the team’s depth and adaptability. “Losing Levi is tough, no question, but we’ve got a group that knows how to step up,” Campbell said.
Detroit’s defensive unit was a key strength during their 2024 playoff run, and maintaining that identity will be crucial if they hope to take the next step in 2025. The coaching staff is expected to get creative with their pass rush packages, possibly utilizing star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson more inside in obvious passing situations.
With Onwuzurike officially out, the Lions must now turn the page and rally behind their next-man-up mentality to stay competitive in a stacked NFC race.
