Injury Woe Causes Lions' DL (28 Tackles, 1.5 Sacks) to Miss Start of Season

The Detroit Lions’ defensive unit will begin the 2025 season without one of its key contributors, as defensive end Levi Onwuzurike has been placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list. This designation means the 27-year-old will miss at least the first four games of the regular season, marking a setback for both the player and the team.

Onwuzurike, a former second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Washington, has had a career marred by injuries. After showing promise as a rookie, he missed the entire 2022 season due to a significant back injury. He returned in 2023 and played in 16 games, starting 10 of them and recording 28 total tackles with 1.5 sacks. While his impact didn’t reach star level, he provided valuable depth and rotational support along Detroit’s defensive front.

His absence will be felt as the Lions look to build on their recent success and make another push toward the playoffs. Head coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn were counting on Onwuzurike to be a reliable rotational player who could provide pressure up front and support in stopping the run. With him out through at least Week 4, Detroit will need others to step up.

The injury bug hasn’t stopped with Onwuzurike. The Lions also placed left tackle Taylor Decker on the active/PUP list, while several defenders—including Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo—are recovering from knee issues and listed on the PUP or non-football injury (NFI) lists. These injuries create early questions about depth and durability, especially along the defensive and offensive lines.

Onwuzurike re-signed with the Lions this past offseason on a one-year deal, hoping to prove he could stay healthy and contribute consistently. While the exact nature of his current injury has not been disclosed, being placed on the reserve/PUP list suggests the team doesn’t expect a quick return.

Detroit has invested heavily in building a tough, physical defense, and losing one of its veterans—especially someone with Onwuzurike’s potential—will force adjustments. Young players like Brodric Martin and veterans such as John Cominsky and Josh Paschal may need to shoulder more of the load in his absence.

The Lions open their season with a tough four-game stretch, and how they handle these early injuries may set the tone for their playoff aspirations.

Tags: Levi Onwuzurike