Lions Endure Major Setback as Levi Onwuzurike Ruled Out for the Season
The Detroit Lions’ 2025 campaign has hit a serious early snag, as head coach Dan Campbell confirmed Sunday that defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike will miss the entire season due to a significant ACL injury.
When Onwuzurike was moved to the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list earlier this month, many assumed his absence would be temporary, possibly limited to training camp and preseason. However, the situation took a grim turn. Campbell disclosed that the severity of Onwuzurike’s condition—initially believed to be related to previous back issues—necessitated surgery that will sideline him for the entire year.
“Levi’s surgery was significant, but it needed to be done,” Campbell told reporters. “It was out of his control, and it needed to be done. So, he will miss the season.”
This is a major blow for a Lions defensive unit already battling injuries along the front. Onwuzurike, entering his fifth season, was expected to take on an expanded role, particularly with fellow defensive tackles Alim McNeill and rookie Mekhi Wingo currently sidelined. Both are also on the active PUP list due to their own injury setbacks. The absence of all three has created a void in the middle of Detroit’s defensive line—a unit that was expected to be a strength this season.
In addition to Onwuzurike’s long-term injury, several other Lions are dealing with short-term concerns. Defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad, and linebackers Alex Anzalone and Anthony Pittman were held out of Sunday’s practice session. Fortunately, Campbell clarified that these injuries are minor, and none are expected to be long-term issues.
The list of players on the active PUP list grew on Friday as the team placed left tackle Taylor Decker, cornerback Khalil Dorsey, offensive lineman Miles Frazier, linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez, and the aforementioned McNeill and Wingo on the list. While these players are unable to practice for now, they can be activated at any point during training camp or the preseason and will still count toward the team’s 90-man roster.
In addition, edge rusher Josh Paschal and defensive back Stantley Thomas-Oliver have been moved to the active non-football injury list.
There is at least some optimism. Campbell expressed confidence that veteran offensive lineman Taylor Decker will be available shortly after the team’s Hall of Fame Game matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers on July 31st.
Still, with injuries piling up across the roster—especially on the defensive front—the Lions will need their depth players to step up early and often if they want to keep their competitive edge heading into the 2025 NFL season.