NFL’s MOST EXCITING TEAMS TO WATCH: ESPN Names Lions One of NFL’s Most Entertaining Teams for 2025 Season

ESPN analyst Ben Solak recently ranked every NFL team by watchability, and Detroit earned the No. 3 spot. According to Solak, Campbell’s aggressive approach—particularly his willingness to gamble on fourth downs—adds as much to the team’s appeal as their explosive roster. In fact, Detroit attempted 33 fourth downs last season, one of the highest rates in league history, with Campbell’s fearless style making punts and field goals nearly obsolete.

The Lions’ high ranking reflects the balance of star power across the roster. On offense, playmakers such as Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams consistently deliver big moments. On defense, Aidan Hutchinson, Brian Branch, and Kerby Joseph headline a young and aggressive unit. Together, they’ve created one of the most entertaining teams to watch on either side of the ball.

Only the Washington Commanders—fresh off a memorable playoff win in Detroit—and the Baltimore Ravens placed ahead of the Lions. Conveniently, both are set to face Detroit this season, promising marquee matchups that will likely draw even more national interest.

From Overlooked to Must-Watch

Not long ago, the Lions were widely regarded as one of the league’s least appealing teams, consistently stuck near the bottom of the standings. Between 1999 and 2021, they would have likely ranked dead last on any “watchability” list.

There were individual bright spots, such as Barry Sanders in the 1990s and Calvin Johnson in the 2000s, but team success was almost nonexistent. Excitement was limited to highlight-reel plays from a single star rather than a competitive, complete roster.

That narrative has shifted dramatically. Since their 2022 appearance on HBO’s Hard Knocks, the Lions have grown into a fan favorite, with Campbell’s fiery personality and the team’s resilience drawing in casual viewers and diehards alike. Once ignored in primetime slots, Detroit is now a regular on Sunday Night Football, Monday Night Football, and Thursday Night Football.

The Lions’ rise has even sparked conversation about them becoming the NFL’s new “America’s Team.” With a loyal fanbase and a decades-long championship drought, the franchise has found itself in a unique position—endearing itself to neutral fans while keeping its own supporters in awe.

Heading into 2025, Detroit is no longer a forgotten franchise. Instead, they’re one of the first teams people want circled on the schedule—a surreal turnaround that has given Lions fans plenty of “pinch me” moments in recent years.