On January 15, 2025, Detroit Lions Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn addressed the media, providing insights on his defensive unit and reflecting on the season thus far. The following is a breakdown of his comments:
Aaron Glenn on defensive progression and adjustments:
“We’ve made significant strides this season, but we know there’s still work to do. It’s been a challenging season, but it’s also been a learning experience for us as a defense. We’ve got some young players who are stepping up, and they’re learning how to perform at a high level week in and week out. The growth from our cornerbacks and safeties has been impressive, and they’re starting to take ownership of their roles. That’s important moving forward.”
Glenn also emphasized the importance of discipline and consistency. “At this level, it’s all about executing the fundamentals. We’ve seen glimpses of brilliance, but we have to eliminate the mental mistakes, the missed assignments, and the blown coverages. When we play as a unit, we’re a dangerous defense. But we have to be more consistent.”
On dealing with injuries and depth:
The Lions’ defense has been hit hard by injuries, and Glenn acknowledged the challenges that come with it. “Injuries are part of the game, and they test your depth. We’ve had to make some adjustments, and credit to our depth players who have stepped in when needed. I think our guys have responded well, but we need to keep pushing, and we’re looking for more from the next man up. We’ve got a great group of guys in that locker room, and that’s what makes us stronger as a team.”
On the defensive line and pass rush:
“Up front, we’ve been doing a solid job, but we know we can do more. We’ve been getting good pressure on the quarterback, but we’ve got to be more consistent with our sack production. Our defensive line is solid, but we need to finish plays. We’ve been focusing on getting off the ball quicker and improving our hand placement. The quarterback should feel us every time he drops back.”
Looking ahead:
“Looking ahead to the remainder of the season, our focus is on finishing strong. It’s about playing complementary football, where every phase – offense, defense, special teams – contributes to the overall success of the team. We’ve got a long way to go, but we’re excited about the direction we’re headed in. As a defense, we have a lot to prove, and we’re ready to take that next step.”
In closing, Glenn reiterated the importance of preparation, effort, and resilience as the Lions push for a strong finish to their season.
