The 2024 season seemed poised to be the breakthrough for the Detroit Lions, but the Washington Commanders abruptly ended that dream, delivering a painful 45-31 defeat in the playoffs. That crushing loss left the team and its fans heartbroken and determined to regroup.
Right tackle Penei Sewell reflected on the bitter postseason exit, acknowledging the frustration but insisting the Lions cannot dwell on it.
Honestly, who cares about what happened?… We’re taking steps forward, and each and every day we’re working to greatness.
Sewell said.
Leaving the past behind and focusing on the present
There is little benefit in lamenting past mistakes. Detroit’s focus is squarely on what lies ahead, particularly as the preseason officially kicks off this Thursday, July 31, with the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. The Lions will face the Los Angeles Rams, marking the franchise’s fourth appearance in the NFL’s annual curtain-raiser.
The offseason has been defined by transition. With new coordinators arriving, Detroit’s priority has been implementing their systems while simultaneously evaluating rookies and managing the competition for the backup quarterback position. The challenge is significant, but under head coach Dan Campbell, belief remains high.
They want us there and we’ll be there… We’re going to get good work.
Campbell said.
A new era in Detroit
After consecutive successful seasons, it was inevitable that Detroit’s coordinators would earn head coaching opportunities elsewhere. Their departures left Campbell to rebuild his staff, a process demanding careful choices to sustain the team’s momentum.
Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard and offensive coordinator John Morton have been well-received in their new roles. Expectations are high that they can deliver immediate impact and maintain the lofty standard set by last season’s 15-win campaign.
Sheppard, who joined Detroit in 2021 as an outside linebackers coach before overseeing the entire linebacker group, had been preparing for this moment.
I want to give credit to Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn, because it’s exactly what I thought it would be… I’m humbly saying that. I don’t feel overwhelmed.
Sheppard said.
Morton, previously senior assistant to the offensive coordinator since 2022, expressed confidence in his promotion, promising to blend proven strategies with his own vision.
He’s been awesome… He’s bringing a mixture of the stuff that he did in his coaching career that worked for him, stuff that has worked for us the last two or three years in our offense that we’ve been great at. He’s mixing it all together and kind of making his own offense.
Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown said of Morton.
The battle for QB2
Jared Goff’s starting role is secure, but finding a dependable backup is critical. The competition features former Steeler Kyle Allen, signed this offseason, and Hendon Hooker, who currently trails each other closely in practice reps.
Hooker remains optimistic about earning the No. 2 role.
I’m just going to control what I can control and play ball… As long as I do my job and take care of the ball and win games that’s all that matters.
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