As the Detroit Lions shift their focus toward building a more formidable future, several veteran players are on the brink of potentially not returning for the 2025 season. The team is poised to make tough decisions, weighing their current cap space, player performances, and future aspirations. While the Lions have seen some strong leadership from these veterans, their roles may not align with the team’s evolving plans. Let’s take a closer look at four key players whose time with the Lions could be coming to an end.

1) Marcus Davenport: A Departure After Injury Woes

Marcus Davenport, the former first-round pick, has struggled to make a significant impact during his time with the Lions. With a $6.5 million average annual salary, Davenport’s tenure has been marred by injuries, making it difficult for him to stay on the field and perform at the level expected of him. Given his lack of production and the hefty cap hit, the Lions are unlikely to extend his contract unless he agrees to a steep pay cut. Chance of re-signing: 5%.

Davenport’s injury history and inability to stay healthy have become major concerns, leaving the team with little incentive to keep him around. As the Lions look to bolster their roster with more reliable, younger talent, it’s difficult to imagine a scenario where Davenport’s future lies in Detroit beyond 2024.

2) Ifeatu Melifonwu: Injuries and Diminishing Role

Ifeatu Melifonwu’s time with the Lions has been hampered by injuries, and with the emergence of players like Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, his role within the defense has become increasingly limited. Despite showing potential earlier in his career, the depth chart has moved forward without him, making his return in 2025 increasingly unlikely. Chance of re-signing: 15%.

As Detroit continues to refine its secondary, Melifonwu’s injury history and lack of playing time leave little reason for the Lions to bring him back next season. His best hope might be to sign a lower-cost deal elsewhere, but Detroit appears ready to move on.

3) Emmanuel Moseley: Injuries Derail a Promising Signing

Emmanuel Moseley was brought in to provide depth to the Lions’ cornerback group, but injuries have derailed his time with the team. With a $2.87 million average annual salary, Moseley’s future with Detroit is up in the air. The Lions are likely to explore more affordable and higher-upside options in free agency or through the draft, making it less likely Moseley will return unless he accepts a pay cut. Chance of re-signing: 10%.

The Lions’ decision regarding Moseley will depend heavily on his willingness to accept a team-friendly deal. However, if he is unwilling to do so, Moseley could find himself playing elsewhere in 2025, as Detroit aims to strengthen its cornerback depth.

4) John Cominsky: Leadership and Playmaking, But Future Uncertain

John Cominsky has been a reliable contributor to the Lions’ defensive line, and his leadership has earned him the respect of both coaches and teammates. However, as the team continues to develop its pass rush, they may seek out a younger, long-term solution at EDGE. With a $3 million average annual salary, Cominsky’s future could hinge on his willingness to take on a more minimal role or accept a lower contract. Chance of re-signing: 30%.

While Cominsky remains an important presence in the locker room, the Lions may decide that it’s time to move on in pursuit of a more dynamic, cost-effective option. If Cominsky is open to a smaller role, there may still be a place for him in Detroit, but that remains to be seen.

Looking Toward the Future

As the Lions continue their rebuild, these veterans face uncertain futures. The team has the flexibility in their salary cap and an upcoming draft that could see a shift toward younger, cheaper talent to build around for the long term. With significant decisions to make, Detroit will have to balance both short-term needs and long-term goals as they prepare for the 2025 season. For these veterans, the 2024 campaign may be their final year in a Lions uniform, marking the end of an era in Detroit’s ongoing transformation.