The Detroit Lions are entering the 2025 NFL season as one of the league’s most closely watched teams. After a strong 2024 campaign, the team experienced major coaching turnover, with offensive coordinator Ben Johnson heading to the Chicago Bears and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn joining the New York Jets. With head coach Dan Campbell now working with a revamped coaching staff, fans and analysts are eager to see how Detroit adapts.
Amid the coaching changes, speculation is growing that the Lions may shake up their quarterback room before the season kicks off in September.
Concerns About the Backup QB Situation
In an article published June 22 by FanSided’s Detroit Jock City, writer Chris Schad suggests the Lions should look to upgrade their backup quarterback behind Jared Goff. While Goff remains firmly entrenched as the team’s franchise signal-caller, 2023 third-round pick Hendon Hooker has reportedly not shown enough progress entering his second year. Meanwhile, veteran Kyle Allen was brought in for competition but has an inconsistent track record, with a 7–12 career record and a passer rating of 82.3.
Schad proposes a trade for Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O’Connell. A 2023 fourth-round pick, O’Connell started multiple games over the past two seasons under former coaches Josh McDaniels and Antonio Pierce. With Pete Carroll now taking over in Vegas, O’Connell’s future is uncertain, potentially making him a trade candidate.
Schad argues that Detroit should prioritize finding a backup who can make smart decisions and effectively manage the offense if needed, especially with top-tier weapons like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Jameson Williams. He notes it could be worth parting with a late-round pick for O’Connell if Hooker and Allen fail to step up.
Veteran Option Also Suggested
Another Detroit Jock City piece by Michael Bohlin, published June 21, echoes the idea of reshaping the QB room. Bohlin points to the lack of reliable experience behind Goff and advocates for the Lions to sign a proven veteran specifically, Carson Wentz.
Bohlin argues that Wentz, a former All-Pro, could provide the steady, experienced presence Detroit needs in case of a Goff injury. He believes Wentz’s knowledge and ability to operate under pressure would be more valuable than taking a chance on a younger, untested backup.
Conclusion
Whether the Lions pursue a younger quarterback like O’Connell or a seasoned veteran like Wentz, there’s a growing sense that changes are coming to Detroit’s quarterback depth chart. While Goff is the undisputed starter, the team may not feel confident in their current options behind him and that could lead to a surprising move before Week 1.
