Lions’ Defense Overcame Injuries to Shine in a Key Area

The Detroit Lions’ defense was hit hard by injuries last season, but they still managed to excel in one crucial aspect.

Saying the Lions’ defense was decimated by injuries might actually understate how severe the situation was. Deploying backups in key roles is one thing, but the Lions had to pull players from other teams’ practice squads just to have enough bodies to field a full lineup late in the season.

In the end, the sheer volume of injuries proved too much to overcome, leading to a disappointing early playoff exit.

Still, Aaron Glenn’s ability to coach through adversity became a major selling point for his head coaching resume before the New York Jets hired him. The Lions finished seventh in scoring defense (20.1 points per game), fifth in run defense (98.4 rushing yards allowed per game), and allowed the lowest passer rating in the NFL (82.0).

A Key Strength for the Lions’ Defense

Mistakes like missed tackles and blown coverages happen to every defense, but elite units minimize their frequency and impact.

Using data from Next Gen Stats, NFL.com recently graded the tackling performance of all 32 teams for the 2024 season. The Lions ranked fifth overall with an 88.8 score, earning a B+ grade, the highest among NFC teams.

“The Lions endured a wave of injuries but remained a cohesive defensive unit; only two players missed more than nine tackles, and no one allowed more than 75 yards from their missed tackles. Safeties Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch led the way. Joseph missed just four of 86 tackle attempts, and Branch was among the league’s most effective at bringing down ball carriers. If their young defensive core continues to develop and stays healthier next season, the Lions could remain strong despite losing several coaches, including defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.”

Both Joseph and Branch were among Pro Football Focus’ top-five graded safeties this season. Branch’s 90.8 run defense grade was the highest at his position, highlighting his tackling ability beyond his 109 total tackles, which ranked second on the team. The Lions’ leading tackler, linebacker Jack Campbell, had just a 5.1% missed tackle rate, according to Pro Football Reference.

Defensive success is often measured by making key plays and limiting yards when it matters most. As a direct result of their tackling efficiency, despite their injury struggles, the Lions finished first in the league in third-down defense and seventh in red zone defense.