Jake Yono

1/20/24

JY Journalism

What's Next For The Detroit Lions?

After the Lions finished 2024 with a superb 15-2 regular season, hopes were high among fans, media, and supporters. Securing the #1 seed and a playoff berth, the path to the Lombardi Trophy seemed well within reach. With all games at home, where they held a 7-2 regular-season record, Detroit needed just two victories to advance to the Super Bowl. However, the dream unraveled in a devastating playoff loss to Washington. In a high-scoring, error-filled contest, the Lions turned the ball over five times compared to Washington’s zero, leading to a crushing 45-31 defeat. Despite numerous opportunities, Detroit couldn’t capitalize, leaving fans frustrated and searching for answers.

Jared Goff’s playoff performance remains a point of concern. While he has been reliable in the regular season, his postseason record now stands at 5-5, including a Super Bowl loss in 2018. His average playoff margin of victory is just six points, highlighting his struggles in high-pressure situations. Though Goff has demonstrated resilience and leadership, his inconsistency in critical moments raises questions about whether he can elevate the Lions to championship status. Improving his postseason performance will be crucial if Detroit hopes to advance further next season. Looking forward, the road ahead presents significant challenges for Detroit. One of the most immediate setbacks is the departure of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who has been hired by the Chicago Bears. Johnson was instrumental in developing the Lions’ high-powered offense, which led the league with 70 touchdowns, ranked second in passing, and seventh in rushing. Losing such a key figure will force Detroit to adapt quickly, as Johnson’s play-calling was a major reason for their success. Finding a replacement to maintain the team’s offensive momentum will be a top priority in the offseason. Another thing I do appreciate about this Lions offense is the risk-taking and aggressiveness that comes with it, first, their 4th down was risk-taking as they were top 3 in that category and they took the risk rather than if other teams would have punted or kicked a field goal such as in their Thursday night clash with the Packers in which they went for it on 4th and 1 in a tie game with 43 seconds left from GB’s just to wind down the clock so they can make their game-winning field goal. This and other opportunities have led the Lions to this success. Another huge part in the team uprising was the occurrence of trick plays, from Jared Goff catching passes in the end zone to laterals within plays, and Penei Sewell catching passes for the most part these occurrences are positive for the team but last weekend's contest came back to bite them. With 12 minutes to go in the game down 10, Jameson Williams got the ball on a pitch, hesitated for a bit, and saw running back Jamihir Gibbs downfield but somewhat covered. Williams threw the ball anyway and Washington intercepted it. This truly put away the game as after this point the Commanders outscored the Lions 17-3 en route to their first conference championship game appearance of the 21st century. I’m not saying they should stop the riskiness and trick plays entirely but they must limit it and realize that when 2 guys are following a receiver downfield and a non QB is throwing the ball just throw it away.

Defensively, the situation is equally uncertain. The Lions allowed just 20 points per game during the regular season, a testament to their growth under defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn. However, Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels exposed their weaknesses, torching the Lions for six touchdowns and a field goal in the playoff loss. Glenn’s projected departure for a head coaching role adds another layer of uncertainty, as does the potential loss of key defensive players like Za'Darius Smith, Alex Anzalone, Kindle Vildor, and Amik Robertson, who are all set to hit free agency (Detroit Lions Contracts). Replacing these contributors while maintaining defensive stability will be critical if the Lions want to remain competitive. Despite these challenges, there are plenty of reasons for optimism. Since Dan Campbell took over as head coach in 2021, the Lions have built a resilient culture centered on teamwork and grit. This culture is reflected in their core group of players, who have become the heart of the team. Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Frank Ragnow—the team’s longest-tenured player—anchor the roster alongside rising stars like Aidan Hutchinson, Penei Sewell, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, and the dynamic running back duo of David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Most of these players have joined the team within the last three seasons, forming a young, talented core that is built to compete for years to come. Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Lions are poised to remain contenders. My projection for next season is a 14-3 record, driven by the team’s explosive offense and an improving defense. The Lions’ young core, with an average age of just under 26 years old, has the potential to develop into a dynasty. With the right moves in free agency and the draft, Detroit could establish itself as a long-term powerhouse, similar to the 1980s San Francisco 49ers, the 21st-century New England Patriots, or the modern-day Kansas City Chiefs.

For Lions fans, the future is bright. While the sting of the playoff loss to Washington will linger, it’s important to recognize how far this team has come. Under Dan Campbell’s leadership, Detroit has transformed from perennial underdogs to legitimate contenders. The 2024 season may not have ended as hoped, but with smart decisions in the offseason, the Lions can take another step forward. Whether it’s through shrewd draft picks, savvy free-agency moves, or internal promotions to maintain stability, the Lions have all the tools necessary to remain a top-tier team.