Pride of Detroit
Checking in on offseason decisions made by some of the Lions 2025 opponents
With the 2025 NFL schedule now official and the Detroit Lions’ slate set, it’s a good time to revisit key offseason moves made by their upcoming opponents. While the NFC North rivals have been under the microscope all offseason, what about the rest? This primer breaks down some of the smartest—and most questionable—decisions made by the Lions’ non-divisional foes.
Best decision: Offensive extensions
The Eagles lost offensive continuity yet again, with coordinator Kellen Moore departing after just one season to become the Saints’ head coach—marking their fourth straight year with a new play-caller. In response, GM Howie Roseman made smart, stability-focused moves to anchor the offense long-term. He handed out well-earned extensions to key stalwarts: running back Saquon Barkley, veteran right tackle Lane Johnson, and emerging center Cam Jurgens.
Most questionable decision: 2025 edge rusher position
There’s little to criticize about the reigning Super Bowl champions’ offseason—especially given the financial realities of maintaining a title roster. But if there’s a mild concern, it lies in the edge rusher group. With Josh Sweat landing a lucrative deal in Arizona, the Eagles will lean on a mix of unproven or inconsistent options opposite Nolan Smith. That includes Super Bowl standout Jalyx Hunt, low-risk signings Azeez Ojulari and Josh Uche, inactive Super Bowl participant Bryce Huff, and Day 3 rookie Antwaun Powell-Ryland Jr.
Underrated decision: Day 3 offensive line investments
The Eagles continue to future-proof their trenches, gifting offensive line guru Jeff Stoutland three developmental prospects on Day 3. Center Drew Kendall (Boston College) and tackles Myles Hinton (Michigan) and Cameron Williams (Texas) won’t be called upon right away, but each will benefit from time at “Stoutland U.”
Best decision: First-round offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. (Oregon)
Despite splashy moves for Laremy Tunsil Jr. and Deebo Samuel, Washington’s smartest decision was staying put and drafting Josh Conerly Jr. in Round 1. Still raw after switching from running back in high school and logging just three seasons at Oregon, Conerly offers long-term upside and versatility as a foundational piece for the new-look offensive line.
Most questionable decision: Free agent defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw
Replacing Jonathan Allen with Javon Kinlaw feels like a downgrade. Though still only 27, Kinlaw has battled knee injuries and inconsistency throughout his career. He struggled on a one-year, low-cost deal with the Jets—so handing him a big contract this offseason carries some risk for Washington’s interior defense.
Underrated decision: Seventh-round running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt (Arizona)
Washington’s backfield lacked a true home-run threat, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt brings that missing explosiveness. The final running back taken in the draft, he offers breakaway potential that neither Brian Robinson Jr. nor Austin Ekeler consistently provide—a sneaky value swing in Round 7.
Best decision: Let Will McClay cook
This breaks the format a bit, but all three of...
