The Detroit Lions made a clear statement this offseason: competition matters — even at the backup quarterback spot. By signing veteran quarterback Kyle Allen, the Lions sent a message to Hendon Hooker, the team’s 2023 third-round pick, that nothing will be handed to him. The decision to bring in Allen wasn’t just about depth; it was about creating pressure, raising the floor of the quarterback room, and setting a standard of readiness behind Jared Goff.

 

Hendon Hooker entered the league with high expectations. His college tape from Tennessee showcased an accurate passer with mobility, leadership, and poise. However, he was recovering from a torn ACL during his rookie year and never saw the field in 2023. Essentially, 2024 is his first real shot at proving he can play at the NFL level. But the Lions aren’t in a position to take chances. With a playoff-caliber roster and aspirations of making a Super Bowl run, every position — including backup quarterback — must be accounted for.

 

Enter Kyle Allen. The 28-year-old journeyman has spent time with the Panthers, Washington Commanders, Texans, and most recently, the Buffalo Bills. While not flashy, Allen is a known quantity. He has 19 career starts and understands how to prepare as a backup. More importantly, he brings professionalism, familiarity with multiple systems, and the ability to step in if needed. These are traits that matter to head coach Dan Campbell and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson.

 

The Lions likely view Allen not as a long-term solution, but as an immediate challenge for Hooker. By adding a player like Allen, they force Hooker to prove he belongs as the next man up behind Goff. Hooker has all the physical tools and the upside, but mental reps and potential don’t win games on Sundays. What Detroit wants to see now is command of the offense, quick processing, consistent accuracy, and poise under pressure — all qualities that Allen already displays, albeit with a lower ceiling.

 

There’s also the developmental angle. Having Allen in the room gives Hooker a steady example to model his preparation after. Goff is the unquestioned starter, but Allen — a player who has carved out a career as a backup — can offer Hooker insight into film study habits, situational awareness, and how to stay ready without starter reps. In a sense, Allen’s presence can benefit Hooker’s growth even if he doesn’t win the job outright.

 

Ultimately, this is about building a strong quarterback room, not just finding a backup. The Lions believe competition breeds improvement, and they’ve applied that philosophy across the roster. With Jared Goff recently extended as the franchise quarterback, the No. 2 spot becomes even more critical. One injury could change the season’s trajectory, and Detroit is not willing to be caught unprepared.

 

Kyle Allen may not be a long-term fixture in Detroit, but his signing raises the bar. It challenges Hooker, adds security, and signals that every role on the team must be earned. For a team aiming to take the next step, that mindset could make all the difference.

 

 

Think you can figure out which Lions player we’re talking about? You’ll get five clues to figure him out in our new guessing game!

 

We’re back for another day of the Pride of Detroit in-5 daily trivia game. Game instructions are at the bottom if you’re new to the game! Feel free to share your results in the comments and feedback in this Google Form.

 

Today’s Pride of Detroit in-5 game

If you can’t see the game due to Apple News or another service, click this game article.

 

Pride of Detroit in-5 instructions

The goal of the game is to guess the correct Lions player with the help of up to five clues. We’ll mix in BOTH ACTIVE AND RETIRED PLAYERS. It won’t be easy to figure it out in one or two guesses, but some of you might be able to nail it.

 

After you correctly guess the player, you can click “Share Results” to share how you did down in the comments and on social media. We won’t go into other details about the game as we’d like your feedback on it. How it plays, what you think of it, the difficulty level, and anything else you can think of that will help us improve this game. You can provide feedback in the comments of this article, or you can fill out this Google Form.

 

 

 

Back during rookie minicamp, Detroit Lions first-round pick Tyleik Williams was wearing number 78. When asked why he was sporting that number—something he didn’t wear in college—it was pretty clear he didn’t want to rock 78.

 

“Trying to get 91, but it’s already taken,” Williams said. “But hopefully, I can get out of 78. I don’t want (it), but right now, it’s 78. Now, I’m going to stick with it, make it look good. But for right now, that’s my number.”

 

The problem for Williams is that veteran defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike is currently sporting the number 91—Williams’ number he wore at Ohio State. However, it appears he won’t be wearing it for long.

 

Williams posted on his Instagram a text from someone telling him that his number has been officially changed to 91—suggesting Onwuzurike gave it up.

 

 

As of right now, it’s unclear what number Onwuzurike is taking. He has previously worn 75 with the Lions, but that is currently taken by Colby Sorsdal. In college, he wore 95 (currently held by Pat O’Connor) and No. 9 (Ennis Rakestraw). There aren’t a lot of numbers available with the roster at 90 players, but some currently vacant options include 79, 77 (don’t do it), and 56. During the offseason, teams are allowed one set of duplicate numbers, so it’s possible Onwuzurike is still sporting the 91… for now.

 

Typically, when there is an exchange for numbers, there is a certain amount of compensation involved. We’ll have to see what Tyleik Williams had to offer Onwuzurike to give up his newly acquired jersey number.

 

What impact will Williams have in rookie season?

 

Detroit Lions defensive lineman Tyleik Williams.

Detroit Lions defensive lineman Tyleik Williams. / John Maakaron, Lions OnSI

 

The Detroit Lions invested in their defensive interior even more with the addition of first-round pick Tyleik Williams in the 2025 NFL draft.

 

Williams joins an nose tackle rotation headlined by veteran DJ Reader and free agent signing Roy Lopez, with the likes of Levi Onwuzurike, Mekhi Wingo and Pat O’Connor also in the mix as off-the-ball tackles.

 

Detroit’s defensive line will also get a boost at some point with the return of defensive tackle Alim McNeill, whose late-season torn ACL is expected to hold him out of action to begin the regular season.

 

At Ohio State, Williams was a run-stuffing nose tackle who helped anchor the defense in their run to a national championship. While the consensus is that he’ll need to develop to become an effective pass-rusher at the NFL level, he has the intangible athletic skills to be a factor early on.

 

Williams has been limited throughout the team’s offseason program in part due to the length of his season in college, and as a result will need to get up to speed quickly in training camp. Even if he’s able to acclimate quickly, he may be best suited for a rotational role behind Reader and Lopez at defensive tackle.

 

One other potential avenue for Williams to see playing time early in his career would be by working as a 3-technique next to either Reader or Lopez. If he’s not polished as a pass-rusher, this would likely be in early downs where opponents like to run the ball.

 

When McNeill returns, he will likely assume the majority of the reps as the 3-technique. Onwuzurike is the favorite to start there right away, but could also see some time as a traditional defensive end if the Lions want to go heavy in run downs.

 

With all this in mind, I project Williams to play around 33 percent of snaps early in his career with the potential for an added workload if he impresses.

 

Given the nature of playing the defensive interior, there’s always the potential of added responsibility in the event of an injury. As a result, Williams could wind up making a spot start in place of Reader or Lopez if circumstances create the need.

 

In his rookie season, I predict that Williams will have a total of 23 combined tackles, five tackles for loss and one sack as a rookie in 2025.

 

 

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (87) stretches with the team during the final day of OTAs on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at the Detroit Lions training facility in Allen Park.Jake May | MLIive.com

What does the next level of development for Detroit Lions’ offense look like?

 

Under new offensive coordinator John Morton, there will be some changes. While not holistic, the hope is small tweaks and a conversion to Morton’s terminology and teaching will bring the group to another level.

 

But as the Lions move past OTAs and look toward training camp, coach Dan Campbell sees the next step being how multiple and versatile the offense can get behind a star playmaking group that includes young players like running back Jahymr Gibbs, tight end Sam LaPorta and wide receiver Jameson Williams.

 

“How many ways and times can we isolate one of these guys? I think that’s what it comes down to,” Campbell said June 5. “Alright we know we’re going to get the one-on-one with Jamo here, and these are the best routes to use him on and let him really shine and do what he does. LaPorta as well. Gibbs as well.

 

“You want to take away Saint (WR Amon-Ra St. Brown)? You want to take away Jamo? You take away LaPorta. Well Gibbs, here we go, here’s your three routes. Here’s what you do best. Or any of those other guys.

So I think it’s not all that different from what we’ve done before, but I think so much of it will be how do we just — simple plays here and let those guys go to work. Get it in their hands and let them go to work and do what they do.”

 

There was plenty of wealth to spread in last year’s offense. Four players — Gibbs, St. Brown, Williams and running back David Montgomery — had over 1,000 yards from scrimmage and LaPorta added over 700 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.

 

According to coaches and players in the organization, the young returning stars are ready to take big steps forward in 2025. That makes it all the more likely the Lions can continue molding a sort of pick-your-poison offense.

 

“Those guys are playmakers on offense,” St. Brown said of Gibbs and Williams. “They’re guys we need, guys we lean on. Watching them this spring has been a lot of fun to sit back and watch them do their thing, get better.”

 

But the one St. Brown — coming off his second straight First-team All-Pro selection — has his eye on is LaPorta.

 

After a record-setting rookie campaign, LaPorta’s numbers dropped a bit last season, in particular his targets going down from 120 to 83.

 

St. Brown suggested LaPorta may not have received the amount of touches he wanted in 2024, but from his perspective, St. Brown sees LaPorta’s drive to top his sophomore season and help the Lions win now.

 

“Not taking anything from what he did last year, he’s a baller,” St. Brown said. “But I can tell this year he’s making plays out there every day. I feel like he’s gonna have a big year.”

 

There are still a few months before the Lions’ players will get to showcase their growth in a real game setting.

 

But if their young core of playmakers are on this path of development to bolster an offense that already excelled last season, they should have no problem accomplishing Campbell’s plans.

 

While the New York Jets are making headlines for their aggressive offseason moves, a surprising name is being credited for influencing their strategy — Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell. Known for his fiery personality, unorthodox leadership, and smashmouth brand of football, Campbell has not only revitalized the Lions but is now being cited as a key inspiration behind how the Jets have reshaped their roster.

 

Jets head coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas reportedly looked closely at Detroit’s recent blueprint when evaluating their own approach to rebuilding.

According to team insiders, Campbell’s culture-first mentality, emphasis on physicality, and commitment to developing homegrown talent resonated with Jets leadership. With the Lions’ dramatic turnaround — from perennial cellar-dwellers to legitimate NFC contenders — Campbell has become a model for how to build a team with identity and purpose.

 

The Jets, who entered the offseason under immense pressure to compete in 2025, didn’t just target big names. They focused on acquiring players with grit, leadership, and versatility — traits Campbell has prioritized in Detroit. Free-agent signings like offensive lineman John Simpson and linebacker Patrick Queen are less about flash and more about fit. These are players who mirror the kind of edge and toughness Campbell has instilled in Detroit.

 

In a recent interview, Saleh even referenced Campbell indirectly, noting, “There’s a team in the NFC that turned it around by believing in their guys, sticking to a culture, and building through the trenches. That’s the standard we’re chasing.”

 

Analysts have pointed out several parallels between the two teams. Both have invested heavily in the offensive line. Both have drafted physical defensive backs who can tackle in space. And both have doubled down on coaches who bring high energy and demand accountability — a signature part of Campbell’s approach.

 

Dan Campbell’s influence also goes beyond the roster. His ability to rally a team around a cause — be it biting kneecaps or simply playing for each other — has captured the attention of coaches across the league. In a league often obsessed with analytics and playcalling trees, Campbell’s emotional leadership style has shown there’s still room for raw motivation and belief in football.

 

For the Jets, the hope is that channeling that same spirit will finally end their playoff drought. With Aaron Rodgers returning from injury and a roster filled with battle-tested veterans and hungry young talent, the team is aiming for more than just a winning season. They’re looking to build something sustainable, something with identity — just like what’s unfolding in Detroit.

 

Whether or not the Jets can pull it off remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Dan Campbell’s fingerprints are showing up in more places than Detroit. And if the Jets’ gamble pays off, Campbell may add “trendsetter” to his growing list of NFL accolades.

 

 

 

The Detroit Lions have emerged as one of the premier franchises in the NFL, largely thanks to their efforts on the sidelines. Since being hired as head coach in 2021, Dan Campbell has cultivated a culture that many around the league are now trying to emulate. This offseason, both Aaron Glenn and Ben Johnson landed head coaching roles with the New York Jets and Chicago Bears, respectively—highlighting the league’s growing interest in the Lions’ blueprint for success. However, while Detroit’s coaching tree has produced notable success stories, not every coach has managed to find the same level of success.

Former Lions assistant coach Mark DeLeone has found a new opportunity in the NFL, joining the Kansas City Chiefs as their assistant running backs coach. The move comes in the wake of assistant special teams coach Andy Hill’s retirement, prompting a reshuffling of the Chiefs’ coaching staff. DeLeone, who held the role of inside linebackers coach with the Detroit Lions in 2021, was let go after just one season. After being out of the league again briefly, he’s now back with a team poised to compete for another Super Bowl—potentially against his former squad.

With Andy Hill retiring, Porter Ellett has shifted to assistant special teams coach under Dave Toub. Mark DeLeone, previously the Chiefs’ linebackers coach, is back in Kansas City and replaces Ellett as assistant running backs coach.

DeLeone has moved around the NFL since beginning his career with the New York Jets as a defensive assistant in 2012. He joined the Chiefs in 2013 as a defensive quality control coach, then became assistant linebackers coach in 2016 and inside linebackers coach in 2018. He held the same role with the Chicago Bears in 2019 and 2020 before heading to Detroit, then served as a defensive analyst for Kansas and coached inside linebackers for the Ravens last season.

 

 

The Detroit Lions are poised for a deep playoff run after a breakout 2023 season, and with extra salary cap space available, they have the opportunity to bolster key areas of the roster. One area that still needs attention is the pass rush. While Aidan Hutchinson is a cornerstone on the edge, the Lions could use more consistent pressure, especially on obvious passing downs and late in games. Here are five ways Detroit can use their extra salary cap room to improve their pass rush and solidify the defense heading into the 2025 season.

 

1. Sign a Veteran Edge Rusher

 

Bringing in a seasoned veteran could immediately boost the pass rush. Someone like Emmanuel Ogbah or Yannick Ngakoue — if still available or released in a cap-related move — could be valuable as situational rushers. While not Pro Bowlers at this point in their careers, these veterans bring experience, discipline, and technique. Their presence could also take pressure off Hutchinson and allow younger players to rotate more effectively. Detroit doesn’t need a superstar, just someone who can win one-on-one matchups when teams double Hutchinson.

 

2. Invest in an Interior Pass Rusher

 

A dominant interior presence would transform the Lions’ front four. While Alim McNeill has shown flashes, adding a disruptive 3-technique defensive tackle could free up the edges and collapse pockets more consistently. Chris Jones (if surprisingly made available) or even a trade target like DeForest Buckner might be expensive, but Detroit’s cap flexibility could allow for a splash move. Interior pressure is harder to find, and it forces quarterbacks off their spot quickly — a key to derailing top-tier offenses.

 

3. Extend Young Core Players Early

 

Spending cap room doesn’t have to mean outside signings. Detroit could use part of their flexibility to lock up emerging young defenders. Players like McNeill or Derrick Barnes could be given early extensions that are cap-friendly long-term but structured to take advantage of the current surplus. By securing their core, the Lions avoid bidding wars down the road and foster continuity — particularly important for developing a top-tier defense.

 

4. Add Depth Through Free Agency or Trades

 

The Lions could target lesser-known rotational players with high upside, such as recent draft picks who haven’t had opportunities to shine in crowded depth charts elsewhere. These types of additions can be affordable and valuable for giving starters a breather without a major drop-off. The Lions’ defensive scheme under Aaron Glenn thrives when players can rotate and stay fresh, especially in the second half of the season.

 

5. Acquire a Hybrid Linebacker/Edge Player

 

In today’s NFL, versatility is king. Detroit could target a hybrid player who can both rush the passer and drop into coverage, creating confusion for opposing offenses. Think of a player in the mold of Kyle Van Noy or Haason Reddick — guys who don’t fit neatly into one box but consistently make impact plays. This flexibility would allow Detroit to get more creative on third downs and in sub-packages, areas where the team has sometimes struggled to finish drives.

 

 

 

By targeting smart upgrades and using their cap room wisely, the Lions can turn a solid pass rush into a dominant one. With the offense already among the league’s best, strengthening the defensive front could be the final piece to

a Super Bowl-contending puzzle.

 

 

Check out which former-Lions will be part of the 2025 UFL Championship Game.

 

The UFL will play its second championship game on Saturday, June 14, at 8 p.m. ET. The game will feature the local Michigan Panthers team as they take on the DC Defenders. For many, the Panthers’ inclusion in the championship game may be enough for Detroit Lions fans to tune in. However, if you need a little more push to watch, there are a handful of former Lions players who will be featured.

 

DC Defenders QB Jordan Ta’amu

What he did with the Lions:

 

Ta’amu had two very brief stints with the Lions. Back in 2020, he was added to the practice squad in December, just weeks after the Lions cleaned house with Matt Patricia and Bob Quinn.

 

He was signed again the following year under Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes in the middle of training camp after an injury to Tim Boyle, but he was released just six days later when Boyle turned out to be okay. Ta’amu never even appeared in a preseason game for Detroit.

 

What he’s doing in the UFL:

 

Ta’amu has actually gone on to have a pretty solid career in the minor leagues. In 2022, he was the USFL leader in both passing yards and passing touchdowns while with the Tampa Bay Bandits. He was the XFL Offensive Player of the Year the following year with the DC Defenders. And this year—back with the Defenders—he led the UFL in passing touchdowns.

 

This year, his stats are pretty solid:

 

9 games: 155-of-285, 2,153 yards, 17 touchdowns, 4 INTs, 92.9 passer rating; 41 carries, 178 yards, 2 TDs

DC Defenders OT Jarrid Williams

What he did with the Lions:

 

Williams was signed to the Lions’ practice squad with two games remaining in the 2022 season. He did not make a game appearance and ended up signing a futures deal with the Eagles.

 

What he’s doing in the UFL:

 

Williams made a few game appearances last year for the DC Defenders—posting a 74.1 PFF grade (yes, there are UFL PFF grades) on 143 snaps, all at right tackle. This year he has only played nine snaps at right tackle.

 

DC Defenders K Matt McCrane

What he did with the Lions:

 

Of all three players, McCrane is the most recent to have played for the Lions. After spending two seasons with the DC Defenders, McCrane signed to Detroit’s practice squad in September of 2024 to back up starter Jake Bates. After two months, however, the Lions cut McCrane, opting instead to keep Greg Joseph as their practice squad kicker.

 

 

McCrane is now in his third season with the Defenders, dating back to their XFL season in 2023. Over that time, McCrane is 42-of-56 on field goals. This season has been his worst to date, making just 14-of-20 field goals, but he was excellent in 2024. He made 16-of-20 that year, including 5-of-7 from 50+ yards and a long of 58. This year, he is just 5-of-10 from 40 yards or longer.

 

Michigan Panthers general manager Steve Kazor

What he did with the Lions:

 

Kazor was a coach for the Lions from 1994-96. He started as the special teams coach, moved to tight ends, and then was the tight ends/assistant offensive line coach in 1996—Wayne Fontes’ final year.

 

 

 

After being a scout for the Rams for 16 years (Brad Holmes connection!), Kazor became the Panthers GM in 2023.

 

Michigan Panther defensive backs coach Brock Marion

What he did with the Lions:

 

Marion spent the last year of his 12-year NFL career as a starting safety for the Lions in 2004. The three-time Pro Bowler had a solid season, starting all 16 games, producing 88 tackles, three interceptions, and eight passes defended. However, Detroit opted to cut him the following season, and he promptly retired.

 

What he’s doing in the UFL:

 

Obviously, he’s coaching the defensive backs, as he has done for the past two years.

 

If you want to catch the Panthers or any of these former Lions, the UFL Championship will air live on ABC on Saturday, June 14 at 8 p.m. ET.

 

 

 

Michigan Panthers offensive lineman Jake Burton

What he did with the Lions:

 

After one season with the Michigan Panthers as the starting left guard, the Lions added him near the start of 2024 training camp. Ultimately, he did not make the team, but he did play in all three preseason games and netted a 73.7 PFF grade.

 

What he’s doing in the UFL:

 

This is Burton fourth season in the non-NFL professional leagues. He spent two years with the Philadelphia Stars in the USFL, and this is his second season with the Panthers. Throughout those four years, Burton has played at every offensive line position but center. He’s predominantly been a left or right guard, but played a significant amount of right tackle (284 snaps) back in 2023.