The Detroit Lions fought through a challenging 2024-2025 season, battling a wave of injuries that left them without several key defensive players as they pushed toward the postseason. Standout defenders such as Aidan Hutchinson, DJ Reader, Alim McNeill, and Amik Robertson were among those sidelined, forcing the team to rely heavily on depth players and mid-season acquisitions.
Despite these setbacks, former defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn’s unit managed to overachieve, surprising many with its ability to generate big plays from unexpected contributors. The Lions leaned on a combination of backups claimed off waivers and trade acquisitions, including Za’Darius Smith, who was brought in to bolster the pass rush but has since been released.
As the team shifts its focus to the 2025 season under new defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, the Lions continue to make strategic moves to reinforce their roster. On Thursday, veteran NFL insider Adam Schefter provided an update on Detroit’s latest defensive decision, reporting that defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad has agreed to return on a one-year deal. The contract, confirmed by agents Drew Rosenhaus and Robert Bailey, ensures that Muhammad will remain a key rotational piece for the Lions moving forward.
Muhammad, a former standout at the University of Miami, is projected to serve as the primary backup to star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. However, his versatility makes him a valuable asset in Sheppard’s defensive scheme, where he could also see time as a rush linebacker. Last season, Muhammad contributed significantly in his nine appearances for Detroit, tallying eight solo tackles and three sacks.
His presence helped stabilize a defense that, despite its injury struggles, played a major role in the Lions’ remarkable 15-2 regular-season record, which secured them the No. 1 seed in the NFC.
As Detroit looks ahead to the upcoming campaign, Muhammad’s return provides much-needed depth and experience to a unit that hopes to build upon last year’s success. With new leadership on the defensive side of the ball and a renewed focus on improving the team’s pass rush, the Lions are positioning themselves to make another deep playoff run in 2025.
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