The season has yet to begin, and Detroit Lions fans are already being given all too familiar injury news. It is easy to shake off how last season ended when looking back at the number of key players lost to injuries. While this is a piece of the game, Detroit had an unfair number of high-impact players go down at the worst possible time. It is impossible to believe that this level of poor luck will continue into the 2025 season.
For now, Lions fans will be content if the roster can make it into the season with its depth pieces intact. Already, two depth players have been lost with CB Dicaprio Bootle and OL Keaton Sutherland both being placed on injured reserve. It is a frustrating end to the season for two players competing for depth roles on a top NFC contender.
Joint practices simulate game intensity even if the speed isn't quite there. With this comes a price of injury risks, and Detroit is now paying it. Every team around the league is dealing with this in some fashion. Injuries are a piece of the game, and being able to quickly pivot is what the best front offices and coaching staffs are able to do.
Lions announce roster moves:
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) August 14, 2025
Signed OL Zack Johnson and CB Allan George.
Placed CB Dicaprio Bootle and OL Keaton Sutherland on Reserve/Injured. pic.twitter.com/VRGA5h5WnQ
Lions Officially Lose Two Depth Pieces in Early Camp Moves
Zack Johnson and Allan George are Detroit's attempted replacements at finding additional answers at the respective positions. Neither player jumps off the page needing an incredible two-week run to make it on the roster and play a meaningful depth role. With this in mind, the Lions still are in a great position as long as the starting offense can remain healthy.
Detroit watched last season as defensive pieces continued to be lost, and the Detroit offense didn't miss a beat. Despite the loss of your starting center, all the needed talent to continue this path is still present. Add in a healthier defense, and there is a clear argument that this team is going to be even better in the 2025 season.
The one counter to this is the recent loss of depth and the concern at the coordinator positions. If the Lions can answer these concerns, Detroit should remain a Super Bowl favorite. Looking at the NFC landscape, it is an interesting potential playoff picture with the Eagles and Lions the prohibitive favorites. Something to keep in mind even in the middle of early injury news.