The Detroit Lions are entering the 2025 preseason with high expectations, still viewed among the NFC’s top-tier teams. Yet questions linger about their long-term momentum. After soaring to Super Bowl contention last season, they suffered a crushing playoff loss that left fans and analysts alike wondering if Detroit’s rise has hit a ceiling. This upcoming preseason will be a crucial checkpoint in determining whether the Lions are still ascending or starting to plateau.

Is Detroit’s window for a championship already closing? In 2024, the team was considered one of the league’s most well-rounded rosters. Now, despite maintaining much of their core, there’s a different feel. The exits of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive play-caller Aaron Glenn have ushered in a transitional phase. These changes have created a new dynamic—one that could either sharpen Detroit’s edge or stall their progress.

The Lions set a franchise record with 15 wins during the 2024 regular season. Still, they were upset by the Washington Commanders in their postseason opener—an early exit that cast doubt on whether they missed their best shot at a title. But head coach Dan Campbell rejects the notion that their moment has passed. He remains adamant that their Super Bowl hopes are alive, citing a resilient roster that’s battle-hardened and hungry for more.

With the NFC North growing more competitive and fresh voices taking the reins on the coaching staff, the 2025 preseason is no longer a warm-up. It’s an evaluation. For those hovering near the bottom of the depth chart, the preseason becomes their defining stage. These bubble players face a shrinking window to showcase their value on a team still hoping to contend.

Let’s spotlight three players on the Lions’ roster bubble who must deliver standout performances during the 2025 preseason.

Rock Ya-Sin brings veteran experience to Detroit’s secondary. A second-round pick in 2019, he’s played in at least 11 games every year. Yet despite his availability, he has struggled to make a lasting impact. Last season, Ya-Sin didn’t start a single game and primarily contributed on special teams with the injury-depleted 49ers.

The Lions brought him in on a modest deal worth just over $1 million—a calculated risk with upside. But with Jerry Jacobs locked into a starting role and younger defensive backs like Dan Jackson and Kennelly pushing for spots, Ya-Sin faces an uphill battle.

For him, the longer preseason offers opportunity. More in-game reps mean more chances to display he’s more than a special teams option. If he can flash dependable play at cornerback, he could secure a backup role and earn his keep as a veteran presence.

Kyle Allen’s arrival in Detroit didn’t make waves, but it carries real implications. The seventh-year quarterback joins a competition to back up Jared Goff, potentially challenging 2023 third-round pick Hendon Hooker for the QB2 job.

Allen’s calm demeanor and NFL experience contrast with Hooker’s promise and inexperience. Last year, Detroit opted to sign Teddy Bridgewater late in the year, showing some hesitation about Hooker’s readiness. Allen’s addition reinforces that the backup job remains wide open.

.For Allen, the formula is simple: perform well enough in preseason action to force the coaching staff’s hand. Either he earns the third quarterback spot outright or supplants Hooker if the younger QB falters. The margin for error is slim, but a strong showing could make him indispensable as a seasoned insurance option.

.Shane Zylstra is no stranger to the grind. Since 2021, he’s battled to stay on the roster, toggling between the practice squad and active duty. With just 15 catches over his career, Zylstra’s NFL journey has been about maximizing limited snaps.

He rejoined the active roster late in 2024, but the tight end room is now more crowded. Free agent Kenny Yeboah is in the mix, and undrafted rookies Luke Deal and Zach Horton are competing hard. Horton, especially, threatens Zylstra’s grip on a roster spot.

To stick around, Zylstra must prove his consistency and familiarity with the system outweigh the upside of newcomers. Preseason games will be critical to show he can contribute as a blocker, flexible receiving option, and red-zone target.

For Ya-Sin, Allen, and Zylstra, this August is make-or-break. They’re not just playing to stay in the league—they’re trying to prove they can elevate a team aiming to rebound from playoff disappointment. Detroit wants to avoid a step back, and these players’ preseason fights represent that broader effort: to transform potential into production.

In Detroit, the championship door may still be open—but so is the exit door, especially for those who fail to make the most of their opportunity.