The Detroit Lions have outlined their offseason workout schedule as they gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft. Voluntary workouts kick off on April 22, promptly followed by two sets of OTA sessions scheduled for May 28-30 and June 3-5. The mandatory minicamp is set for June 10-12 at their training facility in Allen Park. Rookie minicamp details are still pending.

These activities are critical for player development, as they provide opportunities for new drafts and established players to integrate into the team’s system and build chemistry without live contact or full-team drills.

The Detroit Lions are continuing their pursuit of roster enhancement, focusing on bolstering their defensive and offensive lines. General Manager Brad Holmes expressed interest in acquiring another veteran, particularly at the offensive guard position. Meanwhile, Coach Dan Campbell confirmed that the team is still exploring options on the defensive front. The current defensive lineup features Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport as starters, with D.J. Reader and Alim McNeill lined up at tackle.

The recent free agency saw the Lions add nose tackle Roy Lopez, but most of the lineup remains unchanged from last year. The Lions need to improve their sack count after tying for 23rd in the league with 37 sacks last season, a glaring statistic as Hutchinson led with just 7.5 sacks despite missing several games. Holmes remains optimistic about the young talent on the team, emphasizing a balance between nurturing their development and seeking veteran talent.

With the 2025 NFL Draft just three weeks away, the Detroit Lions are preparing for their first-round selection at No. 28. The latest mock draft outlines various scenarios that Lions GM Brad Holmes could pursue. The top choice projected is Derrick Harmon, a DT from Oregon known for his outstanding physical potential. He is expected to provide immediate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, offering depth even with Alim McNeill returning from injury.

In the second round, Oluwafemi Oladejo, an EDGE from UCLA, has caught the Lions' attention, possibly fitting into their plans as a versatile player. Jalen Royals, a WR from Utah State, is anticipated to be a third-round pick, bringing speed and potential to the receiver corps, especially after recovering from injury. Center Seth McLaughlin from Ohio State is a fourth-round target, known for his leadership and quickness, although he may need time to recover from a previous injury.

As the draft approaches, the Lions could also look to move up for top-tier talent. With their sixth-round pick, they may target safety Maxen Hook from Toledo, previously projected to go higher. Two seventh-round picks could bolster their depth, highlighting their commitment to building a competitive roster.

Ben Johnson clarified his comments regarding mobile quarterback Caleb Williams, emphasizing that his enthusiasm was not a critique of Jared Goff. Johnson, the former offensive coordinator for the Lions, spoke directly with Goff to alleviate any misunderstandings. He highlighted the potential of working with a quarterback capable of extending plays like Williams, contrasting with Goff's more limited mobility. While Goff had a stellar recent season, leading the Lions to a remarkable 15-2 record, Johnson's excitement for Williams stems from his dynamic abilities, which can change the pace of a game.

Johnson maintained that his comments were skewed and intended to highlight Williams' attributes rather than diminish Goff's contributions during their time together. This relationship remains strong, with Goff clearly understanding Johnson's intentions. Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown commented that Johnson's words could add extra motivation for Goff when facing the Bears, highlighting the competitive dynamics at play. Johnson expressed gratitude for the support he continues to receive from Detroit fans even as he embraces his new role in Chicago.

The Detroit Lions, a staple of Thanksgiving football since 1934, may also return to the Christmas game schedule in 2025, as hinted by team president Rod Wood. The NFL has not included the Lions on Christmas since 1999, but their popularity and recent success, including a 15-2 record and the NFC's No. 1 seed last season, could change that. Wood expressed that while he appreciates the increased visibility, the short week leading up to Christmas could pose challenges for the team and their fans.

In 2025, Christmas falls on a Thursday, leading to a potentially grueling schedule for the Lions if they play on both Thanksgiving and Christmas. The Lions have previously played on Christmas when it fell on a Sunday or Saturday, allowing for more preparation time. However, back-to-back Thursday games would complicate matters significantly. Despite these challenges, the league's interest in showcasing the Lions against a top opponent may make a Christmas game inevitable.