Detroit, MI – April 27, 2025
The Detroit Lions slashed their roster post-2025 NFL Draft, cutting four veterans to clear $12.63 million in cap space for their rookie class, sources tell ESPN. The moves, announced Sunday, prioritize youth after a 15-2 season, freeing slots for seven new additions, including Ohio State’s Tyleik Williams.
The casualties include a veteran guard, released to save $2.13 million despite a $5.3 million dead cap hit. His 36 pressures allowed in 2024, among the worst for guards, prompted the shift to rookie Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany. A defensive end, cut for $6.5 million, played just two games due to an elbow injury, making way for draft pick Landon Jackson.
A wide receiver, saving $2.5 million, exited after 394 yards as a WR3. Rookies Isaac TeSlaa and Isaiah Neyor now bolster depth behind Amon-Ra St. Brown. The kicker, an unrestricted free agent, was not re-signed, saving $1.5 million. His 81.3% field goal rate, weak beyond 50 yards, led to plans for a new leg.
GM Brad Holmes, with $42.36 million in cap space, eyes flexibility for in-season moves while absorbing the $8.72 million rookie cap hit. The cuts align with Detroit’s Super Bowl push, balancing veterans like Jared Goff with young talent. The Lions’ offense, averaging 32.1 points, remains elite, but edge rush needs persist.
The draft class, featuring Williams and Ratledge, addresses defensive tackle and guard holes. McNeill’s ACL recovery and Glasgow’s decline necessitated the overhaul. Jackson adds depth opposite Aidan Hutchinson, while TeSlaa eyes a WR4 role.
Holmes’ aggressive roster purge, echoing Za’Darius Smith’s release, signals a youth-driven strategy. The cuts, though tough, position Detroit for 2025 dominance. Will the rookies deliver? Fans await the answer.
This shakeup sets the Lions’ sights on a championship run.
