The Detroit Lions are one week away from putting an end to a heartbreaking 2025 season. One of the league's most dominating teams a season ago has simply has lacked answers. There is no question that this demands a level of change and that Detroit's offseason needs to bring in a fresh perspective both on the roster and in the coaching staff.
However, Detroit lacks the cap space and pieces to replace everyone who didn't live up to expectations. This, along with the up-and-down nature of the season, sets up a trio of Lions for a second-chance next season.
1. DC Kelvin Sheppard
Kelvin Sheppard's lack of experience showed throughout the 2025 season, with the coordinator failing to make needed adjustments. However, there is no coordinator that Detroit could have brought in that is giving the Lions a better chance to win based on the injuries to Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch and other members of the secondary. There were also frustrations in the middle of the defense as Alim McNeill couldn't round into pre-injury form and the team didn't get much elsewhere, but the coordinator deserves another season with a healthy roster to prove what he is capable of.
Already, the Lions need to make a coaching change at offensive coordinator, with John Morton no longer being a viable play caller. If the Lions are going to take the needed step forward next season, there has to be a mix of new voices as well as returning leaders. Sheppard needs a chance with a healthy defense before Detroit makes a change.
2. WR Dominic Lovett
Lovett was one of the surprise performers of camp and into the preseason, giving fans room to wonder if the receiver might carve out a role. Instead, Lovett made it on the field for only 14 snaps throughout the season. It seemed Detroit preferred to have two tight-end sets far more often than they should have, considering the injuries at the position. This obviously made it close to impossible for the rookie to take the field.
The Georgia alum is still clearly a potential fit and should be given a chance heading into 2026 to fill the role of upcoming free agent Kalif Raymond. Lovett was drafted 244th overall and had an uphill battle not only to make this year's roster, but to prove he has value beyond.
While there isn't anything to definitively say that the receiver is going to be a future contributor, the reverse isn't the case either. The pass catcher deserves to be brought back in 2026 and given a chance to win a surprise contributing role.
3. DB Avonte Maddox
Maddox signed a one-year deal ahead of the 2025 season and was expected to contribute on special teams while providing experienced depth. Instead, Maddox was forced into the starting lineup after a string of injuries in the Lions' secondary. The Super Bowl champ made the most of the opportunity and proved that he can be used in a myriad of roles. With experience at safety and corner, Maddox has earned a return to the 2026 lineup.
For the Lions, it isn't going to be a costly re-signing, and Maddox is the perfect mix of leaning on known depth without settling. Maddox is likely to want to return at this late stage of his career, understanding it will be a chance to contribute to what should be a NFC contender in 2026.
It is a bit of a surprise that Maddox has been as relied upon as he has down the stretch, but it speaks to the extent of injuries the Lions have dealt with at safety and corner. It gives the defensive back the opportunity that made it clear he should return for the 2026 season.