Detroit’s defensive line just took a big hit before the season even started. Lions defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike is officially out for all of 2025 after undergoing surgery to repair a torn ACL, head coach Dan Campbell confirmed at the start of training camp on Sunday.
Levi Onwuzurike out for 2025 after major knee surgery
The 27-year-old lineman had been placed on the physically unable to perform list earlier in the week, which would have already sidelined him for at least four games. But Campbell cleared up any speculation by stating Onwuzurike won’t be available at all this year.
“Levi’s surgery was significant,” Campbell said. “It had to be done. Unfortunate, but out of his control.”
Detroit’s D-line depth tested early with veteran DT done for the year
Onwuzurike was hoping to build on a strong comeback campaign last season after missing all of 2022 with a serious back issue that required spinal fusion surgery. In 2024, he played in 16 games and started 10, racking up 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a personal best 13 quarterback hits.
The Lions re-signed him on a one-year deal this offseason, but that opportunity will now have to wait until 2026.
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While losing a veteran starter hurts, Campbell pointed to rookie Tyleik Williams as a key depth piece to help fill the void inside.
“You hate to lose anybody, especially Levi,” Campbell said. “But we’ve got Tyleik, so that helps.”
Detroit also opened camp with a laundry list of players on the PUP list, including two more defensive tackles: Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo. Other names on the list include left tackle Taylor Decker, cornerback Khalil Dorsey, guard Miles Frazier, and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez.
The Lions will play in the Hall of Fame preseason game against the Chargers on July 31.
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