A Significant Setback
Training camp is just getting underway, but the Detroit Lions have already suffered a significant setback on the defensive side of the ball. Defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike will miss the entire 2025 NFL season after undergoing ACL surgery, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed Sunday.
“Let me start with Levi. Levi is out for the year,” Campbell said. “Levi’s surgery it was significant, but it needed to be done. Out of his control and it needed to be done so he will miss the season.” Onwuzurike, 27, had been a consistent contributor along the defensive front, playing in 16 games during the 2024 season. He posted 13 quarterback hits, 28 total tackles, 1.5 sacks, and one tackle for loss.
Placed On Reserve List
Ahead of the announcement, the Lions placed Onwuzurike on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list on Thursday. The designation effectively signaled that the injury was serious, and Campbell’s confirmation made it official that the lineman won’t be returning this year.
The loss is a blow to a defense that’s hoping to rebound in 2025. Star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is expected to return after suffering a season-ending fibula and tibia fracture in October. Veteran lineman Alim McNeill, also recovering from a torn ACL, currently remains on the active/PUP list. Without Onwuzurike, Detroit will now rely on a mix of young talent and veteran depth to anchor the defensive interior.
Filling The Gaps
First-round draft pick Tyleik Williams will likely see an expanded role, along with sixth-rounder Ahmed Hassanein. Brodric Martin and free-agent addition D.J. Reader are among those expected to help fill the void left by Onwuzurike’s absence.
On the offensive side, Campbell provided an update on offensive tackle Taylor Decker, who is recovering from a shoulder injury. The veteran is expected to rejoin the team following the Hall of Fame Game on July 31, when the Lions face the Los Angeles Chargers.
The Lions will continue their preseason preparations with several key players still in recovery mode, and with Onwuzurike officially sidelined, the team will have to adjust quickly to maintain its defensive momentum.
