11 Lions Likely Leaving Detroit After Playoff Loss
The Detroit Lions’ Super Bowl dream came to an abrupt end after a divisional-round loss to the Washington Commanders. Now, with the offseason underway, major roster changes are expected.
From veteran free agents to potential cap casualties, here are 11 Lions who likely played their last game in Detroit.
1️⃣ Tim Patrick (WR)
📝 Signed as a practice squad addition in August, Tim Patrick became a valuable depth receiver, finishing with:
✔️ 33 catches, 394 yards, 3 TDs
✔️ Reliable third receiving option behind Amon-Ra St. Brown & Jameson Williams
🔮 Why He’s Leaving:
Patrick will likely seek a bigger role elsewhere, and the Lions can find a WR3 in free agency or the draft.
2️⃣ Carlton Davis (CB)
🛡️ Traded from the Buccaneers last offseason, Davis made an impact despite missing time due to injuries:
✔️ 42 solo tackles, 11 pass breakups, 2 INTs
✔️ Ranked 25th among CBs in coverage grade (PFF: 72.1)
💰 Contract Issue:
Davis will command a high salary in free agency (estimated $13.8M per year). The Lions have CB depth, making it unlikely they pay top dollar.
3️⃣ Allen Robinson (WR)
📉 Once a Pro Bowl receiver, Robinson was signed for WR depth but barely contributed:
✔️ 12 games, 7 targets, 30 yards
✔️ 55.7 passer rating when targeted
🚪 Why He’s Gone:
Robinson is no longer a difference-maker. Detroit will prioritize younger, more explosive receivers.
4️⃣ Ben Johnson (Offensive Coordinator)
🧠 The mastermind behind Detroit’s offense, Johnson has been a hot head coaching candidate for multiple seasons.
🔥 Already interviewed with:
✔️ Chicago Bears
✔️ Jacksonville Jaguars
✔️ New England Patriots (before hiring Mike Vrabel)
🚀 Next Move:
It’s only a matter of time before Johnson takes a head coaching job. Detroit may have to find a new OC soon.
5️⃣ Jonah Williams (DL)
🛑 Signed midseason, Williams played for three teams in 2024 (Vikings, Rams, Lions) but failed to make an impact:
✔️ 9 games, 1 solo tackle
✔️ PFF Grades: Overall (37.7), Run Defense (32.9), Tackling (27.7) – Career Lows
❌ Why He’s Leaving:
Williams struggled everywhere he played and isn’t worth keeping in Detroit.
6️⃣ Michael Niese (OL)
👎 Failed to stand out on an elite Lions offensive line:
✔️ Struggled in run blocking (PFF: 40.7 grade)
✔️ Detroit prefers stronger run blockers
🚪 Why He’s Gone:
Even with exclusive rights free agency, Niese is unlikely to receive a qualifying offer.
7️⃣ Kyle Peko (DT)
🚑 Played just five games before suffering a season-ending pectoral injury:
✔️ 1 solo tackle in 86 defensive snaps
✔️ PFF Run Defense Grade: 36.8 (one of the worst in his career)
🚨 Why He’s Gone:
At 32 years old, the Lions will look for younger, more durable depth options.
8️⃣ Patrick O’Connor (DL)
⚠️ Drafted by Detroit in 2017, but rejoined in 2024 after seven seasons with Tampa Bay:
✔️ 12 games, 5 solo tackles, 1 sack
✔️ PFF Grades: Run Defense (47.9), Pass Rush (55.3) – Below Average
🚪 Why He’s Gone:
O’Connor failed to be an impact defender. At 30, his best years are behind him.
9️⃣ Shane Zylstra (TE)
🚨 Once a promising TE, Zylstra struggled after missing 2023 with a knee injury:
✔️ Played 12 games, only 1 target
✔️ PFF Pass Block Grade: 19.5 – Worst Among 124 TEs
🚪 Why He’s Gone:
Detroit has better blocking TEs (Brock Wright, James Mitchell). Zylstra doesn’t fit the offense anymore.
🔟 Levi Onwuzurike (DT)
⚔️ Once a high-upside prospect, injuries derailed Onwuzurike’s development:
✔️ Missed 25 games in the last three seasons
✔️ Had his best season in 2024 (16 solo tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble)
💰 Why He’s Gone:
If Onwuzurike gets a strong free-agent offer, the Lions won’t match it due to injury concerns.
1️⃣1️⃣ Kevin Zeitler (OG)
👴 The veteran OL signed a one-year deal in 2024 and played at an elite level:
✔️ Top 3 in run blocking & overall OL performance (PFF)
✔️ Still one of the best guards in the NFL at 35 years old
💰 Why He Might Leave:
The Lions want him back, but if Zeitler demands a big contract, Detroit won’t overpay for a 35-year-old.
🔮 What’s Next for the Lions?
With free agency approaching, the Lions must decide who stays and who goes as they aim for another Super Bowl run in 2025.
Which Lions do you think should return next season? Drop your thoughts below! ⬇️🔥