The Detroit Lions are hoping this will finally be the year their franchise reaches the Super Bowl for the very first time in team history. But is that just wishful thinking? Let’s stay optimistic.
No longer seen as the NFL’s doormat, the Lions have become consistent playoff threats. However, this season will be the first without offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, presenting a real challenge for Dan Campbell and his staff.
Looking toward the 2025 season, one NFL analyst is evaluating the Lions’ current strengths—and their most pressing weaknesses.
In a Bleacher Report article published June 16, Alex Ballentine examines the best- and worst-case scenarios for every NFL team before the season kicks off. He writes, “It’s an offensive league, and each front office enters the offseason envisioning ways to upgrade that side of the ball.” He also notes, “Just look at the investments teams make in quarterbacks, offensive lines, and top receivers.”
Of course, these predictions are speculative and meant to be taken lightly. Still, they offer useful insight into what fans might expect—or worry about—as the season unfolds.
So what would be the worst-case situation for the Lions this season? Hopefully, it’s something we never have to witness.
According to Ballentine, a “brain drain” combined with Frank Ragnow’s retirement could “cause regression.” Losing Ragnow is clearly a blow—but how damaging could it really be?
“In general, the play-caller, quarterback, and center are the most vital parts of an offensive scheme,” writes Ballentine. “The center is often underrated, but coordinating with the quarterback is essential for organizing protections and adjusting before the snap.”
He continues, “This year, Detroit will have both a new center and play-caller, making room for some decline. Graham Glasgow, Christian Mahogany, and second-rounder Tate Ratledge have all reportedly taken snaps at the position.”
Ultimately, Detroit must rely on its ability to scout and develop talent. But there’s a version of this plan where things falter and the team falls from elite status to merely above average. That would be devastating. This team has come too far for a step back.
On the flip side, the best-case outcome is that the core group “stays sharp and productive.” And that would be a dream.
“The essential players behind Detroit’s top-five offense over the past three seasons are still on board,” Ballentine writes. “Jared Goff will continue targeting Amon-Ra St. Brown, and David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs will keep applying pressure to opposing defenses.”
