The Detroit Lions wrapped up the 2024 NFL season with an impressive 15-2 record. They’ve now claimed back-to-back NFC North titles and are expected to be favorites to win the division once again in 2025.

In 2023, the Lions fell to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship on the road. In 2024, they were upset at home in the NFC Divisional Round by the Washington Commanders. Entering 2025, the team faces some notable changes. Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn are no longer with the team. Head coach Dan Campbell will be working with a pair of new coordinators. Still, the Lions won’t lose their established identity.

Even without their previous coordinators, Detroit remains stacked with offensive firepower. Their success still revolves around quarterback Jared Goff and a dominant offensive line. Jahmyr Gibbs ranks among the top backs in the league. On defense, staying healthy and improving performance will be key. Aidan Hutchinson continues to be the defensive cornerstone.

Frank Schwab of Yahoo Sports ranks Detroit as the NFL’s third-best team entering the new season. That placement reinforces their position as serious Super Bowl contenders. Schwab shared the following take:

“The positive outlook is Detroit remains extremely strong. The Lions’ roster is loaded with star talent. Dan Campbell is emerging as one of the league’s premier head coaches. The change at coordinator might not be as impactful as expected. John Morton, who was on staff in 2022 and recently worked with Sean Payton in Denver, replaces Johnson. Glenn’s replacement is Kelvin Sheppard, the team’s former linebackers coach. Both could keep the team’s progress on track.”

But in the NFL, fortunes shift fast. The Philadelphia Eagles appear to be a powerhouse in the NFC. The North could be the league’s toughest division. Injuries can derail a season, as Detroit knows firsthand. A bad playoff matchup can also end a run abruptly, which they’ve experienced twice.

Detroit is still one of the league’s top-tier teams. But elite status doesn’t guarantee a Super Bowl. After letting golden chances slip away the past two seasons and losing key coaches and players, Detroit has reason for concern.

What favors the Lions in the NFC North is having the division’s top quarterback in Jared Goff. Other teams face uncertainty—J.J. McCarthy in Minnesota, Jordan Love in Green Bay, and rookie Caleb Williams in Chicago all raise questions. Detroit also boasts the best offensive line among them.

Their defense might carry some doubts, but their grit and competitive fire are unquestioned. While another 15-2 season may be unlikely, a 12-5 record and a third consecutive NFC North title would surprise no one.