The Detroit Lions have shifted their identity from an unfortunate franchise once mired in futility to one of the NFL’s most exciting teams, posting a 27-7 record over the past two years while securing two NFC North Division titles and producing 18 Pro Bowl players. As they enter the 2025 season, the Lions confront a new reality—with rising expectations and the pressure to deliver a championship breakthrough now front and center. Running back David Montgomery embodies this mindset, making a bold statement about the team’s commitment to finishing what they started.
Embracing the Challenge: Why 2025 Is Critical for the Lions
At training camp in Allen Park, Michigan, the Lions expressed a determined focus on moving beyond close calls that have defined recent years. David Montgomery captured this sentiment clearly to ESPN’s Eric Woodyard, emphasizing the need to shed complacency from near misses and secure ultimate success.
“It’s cool to be close at first, but you don’t want to get comfortable with being close all the time. That’s not what you want to be known for, especially when you know you’ve got the guys you’ve got on this team. You want to finish it, so this is the year for us. The year of the reckoning and the year that we choose that we need to finish.”
—David Montgomery, Running Back
Although Detroit achieved their first playoff victory since 1991 in 2023, recent postseason exits have been painful. The Lions fell short in the NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers in January 2024 and suffered a surprising and harsh loss to the Washington Commanders in the Division Round despite a dominant 15-2 regular season record. These defeats have reinforced the urgency felt throughout the team to advance beyond their current plateau.
Overcoming Injuries and Leadership Changes Ahead of 2025
One major hurdle during the recent campaigns was an extraordinary injury crisis. Sixteen defensive players, including key standouts like defensive ends Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport as well as cornerback Carlton Davis, were sidelined. This amounted to nearly a third of the 53-man roster, significantly weakening the defense’s depth at critical moments.
Heading into 2025, Detroit’s Super Bowl odds are strong at 9-1, combined with +135 odds to defend their division crown. Still, success depends heavily on the team’s ability to maintain health and execute consistently.
The offseason saw important coaching shifts as defensive coordinator Ben Johnson and offensive coordinator Aaron Glenn left for head coaching roles with the Bears and Jets, respectively. In response, head coach Dan Campbell promoted linebackers coach Kelvin Sheppard, now entering his fifth season with the team, to defensive coordinator. Meanwhile, John Morton returns as offensive coordinator after serving as a senior offensive assistant in 2022 and most recently coordinating the pass game for the Denver Broncos.
What the Future Holds for the Detroit Lions
The Lions must successfully adapt to new coordinators and overcome the risks of injury to capitalize on the promising foundation built over recent seasons. With Montgomery’s guarantee setting the tone, Detroit is determined to make 2025 a breakthrough year, not just building on past successes but achieving a long-awaited Super Bowl appearance that could redefine the franchise’s legacy.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is David Montgomery still vegan?
A. His Wikipedia page states that he is a vegan, meaning he doesn’t consume any animal products, including eggs. According to the Chicago Bears’ website, Montgomery switched to a vegan lifestyle in 2020. Since the season began, Montgomery has committed to improving his diet by eliminating all meat and animal products.
Q. Is David Montgomery vegan?
A. Learn about David Montgomery’s special take on veganism and find out about his go-to carrot recipes. Uncover interesting facts and memes about this captivating diet!