One of the limited points of worry for the Detroit Lions in the 2025 offseason is the defensive line, as the team faces a significant uncertainty with one of its two starters.
Although the team has both of its 2025 interior starters signed with D.J. Reader and Alim McNeill, the latter might not be prepared for the beginning of the 2025 season due to a torn ACL sustained in December.
At the most recent update, McNeill was seen using crutches as the team cleared out its lockers after the heartbreaking playoff defeat to the Washington Commanders in the divisional round. McNeill did not provide a significant update regarding his status.
“Since we’ve finished, I need to get back on the field as quickly as possible,” McNeill stated, as reported by Tim Twentyman from the team’s official site. “I’m not in a hurry or anything, but I will definitely challenge myself.”
Given the uncertainty around McNeill, Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report anticipates that the Lions will acquire pending free agent defensive lineman B.J. Hill from the Cincinnati Bengals during free agency.
“Knox stated that the expectation is Hill will discover a new residence with the Detroit Lions.” In 2024, they faced various defensive injuries and lost standout defensive tackle Alim McNeill to a torn ACL during Week 15.
“Bringing in Hill would offer coverage while he heals, and the Lions could benefit from extra depth on their defensive line as well.”
There has been speculation that the Lions might release Reader this offseason, but we don’t believe that will occur. Reader enjoyed a solid first season with Detroit, and he has a solid chance of improving in 2025 since he’s now a full season after recovering from a torn quadriceps injury.
The Lions should not only retain Reader for another season, but they must also increase their depth. Re-signing Levi Onwuzurike would definitely be logical, but he might depart in free agency to a team that can assure him a starting position, which the Lions cannot offer until 2026 when Reader becomes a free agent. Onwuzurike might also become costly following a breakout season.
Hill would serve as an excellent insurance plan for McNeill and a great depth choice when the former third-round selection comes back from his injury. Hill recorded three sacks and 32 pressures in 2024, achieving a Pro Football Focus run defense score of 69.2, demonstrating that he provides a variety of skills.
Spotrac predicts that Hill will secure a two-year, $18 million contract during free agency, which is a deal the Lions can manage with approximately $46.5 million in cap space, according to Over the Cap.
In the end, we would rather the Lions re-sign Onwuzurike since he might serve as a long-term option inside if Reader departs in 2026. However, Hill would provide a significant consolation reward and a reliable bridge choice for Detroit.