Breaking Down The Detroit Lions’ 53-Man Roster For 2025

The appetizer that is the NFL Preseason has come to a close, which means it's time for the main course to be served. Yesterday, the Detroit Lions confirmed its initial roster for the 2025 season, and there were a few surprises along the way—plenty of returning faces like Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jake Bates. But some surprise veterans didn't make the cut.

Now that the roster has been announced, we're breaking down the entire 53-man roster in all its current form. Already, less than 24 hours after the roster was solidified, significant changes have been made to the roster. So, how long this roster breakdown will be accurate is unknown, even to me.

Notable Changes On The Lions

While there are many returning faces, some changes have been made, including the exclusion of a fan favorite from the team. Notable cuts include Jackson Meeks, Hendon Hooker (whose less-than-stellar performance during the preseason could have played a major role in this), and Dan Skipper. 

Skipper, the tallest player in the league and a fan favorite after scoring his first touchdown last season, did not make the 53-man roster. The fanbase's outcry of dismay was quickly calmed after it was announced that he would remain part of the team on the practice squad.

READ MORE: Dan Campbell Wanted a Real Lion as Lions Mascot

It's also the first time in years that Frank Ragnow will not be at center, following his surprise retirement announcement earlier this year. The offensive line will look quite different this year.

Roster Changes Already Taking Place

Less than 24 hours after the roster was solidified, the Lions announced that they would be trading Tim Patrick to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for a 2026 6th-round pick. He was the Lions' designated WR3 last season, and so far, it seems Dan Campbell is eyeing rookie Isaac TeSlaa to fill this role.

With these changes in mind, let's look at how the team will (most likely) look by its first game against the Green Bay Packers on September 7th.