Detroit Lions news and game analysis from July 17, 2025. The calendar has flipped to mid-July, and the hum of football is officially back in Allen Park.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The calendar has flipped to mid-July, and the hum of football is officially back in Allen Park. The Lions' rookies reported to camp yesterday, and the full team schedule is set, with the gates opening on July 26 for 'Back Together Weekend.' But while the promise of a new season brings excitement, a long and concerning injury report is casting a significant shadow over the team's preparations, raising serious questions before a single full-squad practice has even begun.
SI.com analysts suggest Detroit may consider trading Montgomery before the NFL trade deadline, citing his physical running style and a recent dip in efficiency.
The biggest story heading into camp is the health of the roster, particularly on defense. A staggering number of key contributors are listed as questionable for the Week 1 opener at Green Bay. The list includes defensive ends Marcus Davenport (triceps) and Nate Lynn (shoulder), linebackers Malcolm Rodriguez (knee-ACL), Derrick Barnes (knee-MCL), and Jack Campbell (hip), plus defensive tackles Alim McNeill (knee-ACL), Mekhi Wingo (knee), and Tyleik Williams (leg). With that many starters and rotational players from the front seven on the mend, the team's ability to generate pressure and stop the run is in serious jeopardy. Even superstar Amon-Ra St. Brown is nursing a knee issue, adding another layer of anxiety for the Honolulu Blue faithful.
As if the injury news wasn't enough to chew on, speculation is growing that running back David Montgomery could be on the trade block. Analysts at SI.com have suggested the Lions might look to move the veteran back before the trade deadline. The logic points to his punishing running style, a recent dip in efficiency, and the potential to get significant value in return from a contender. While Jahmyr Gibbs is the explosive future, Montgomery provides the thunder, the leadership, and the goal-line prowess. A potential trade would drastically alter the identity of the Lions' backfield and signals that GM Brad Holmes is always willing to make a move he believes benefits the team's long-term value.
Amid the concerns, there's still plenty of good news to celebrate. Amon-Ra St. Brown's elite status was once again confirmed, with ESPN ranking him the 6th best wide receiver in the entire league. The Sun God's relentless work ethic and consistent production continue to earn him national praise. That standard of excellence is what the 2025 rookie class will now look up to as they reported to the facility on Wednesday. The only minor hiccup is that second-round guard Tate Ratledge has yet to sign his contract, but there's little concern in Allen Park that a deal won't get done soon. For now, the fresh faces bring a dose of optimism and a reminder of the young talent infusing this roster.
With camp set to open on July 26, the storylines are crystal clear. The primary focus will be on who is practicing and who is on the sideline. The health of the defense isn't just a talking point; it's the single biggest variable for a successful start to the season. As trade whispers around David Montgomery continue, and a promising rookie class gets its first taste of the NFL, Detroit enters 2025 with sky-high expectations tempered by very real concerns. All eyes now turn to Allen Park to see how it all unfolds.
