I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my deep concerns regarding the current direction we are heading with our team, specifically with the decisions being made for the 2025 preseason. As the Defensive Coordinator of this team, it’s my responsibility not only to ensure that our defense is performing at the highest level but also to make sure that our players are given the proper support and resources to reach their full potential. I am increasingly concerned that some of the decisions being made could seriously undermine our chances of success, both in the short and long term.
I understand that as an owner, you have a unique perspective on the team and its future. You have a vision for where we should be, and I respect that. However, there are several moves that I strongly believe could have detrimental effects on the overall performance of the team, especially on defense. Some of the recent choices during this off-season, especially regarding the roster and player acquisition for the 2025 preseason, are troubling. There are key players who have been let go or are not receiving the necessary support in terms of coaching and development.
For instance, the decision to overhaul the linebacker core without providing a clear and consistent strategy to replace the leadership and experience we lost, while exciting on paper, is a significant risk. The lack of continuity in our defense could lead to issues with cohesion, which in turn will affect our overall defensive strategy and performance on the field. It is incredibly difficult to build a defense that can compete at the highest level without giving players the opportunity to gel and build trust within the system. It’s concerning to see us take steps backward in a department where we’ve finally begun to show some promise.
Furthermore, there is a growing concern regarding our approach to player development. As much as the offseason acquisitions are important, we must not forget the value of nurturing the young talent we already have. There are players within the system who have great potential, yet it seems that we are not investing the time, resources, or guidance necessary to help them reach that potential. The defensive line, for example, is an area where we have some promising young players, yet it feels as if we are not placing them in situations where they can succeed and grow. This is something I have always championed, but I fear that we are not prioritizing it enough in this critical time.
I know that change is sometimes necessary, and I do not want to seem like I am resisting progress. But I do feel strongly that the approach we are currently taking will not lead to sustained success. We need to focus on building a culture of trust, continuity, and development. If we continue to make decisions that destabilize the team and disrupt the progress we’ve made, it will be very difficult to compete in what is shaping up to be a very competitive NFC.
I hope that we can have an open conversation about these concerns, as my primary goal, as always, is to ensure the success of the Detroit Lions. I believe that with the right guidance and commitment, we can build a team that not only competes but excels in the long run. I truly want to be part of that journey, but I cannot do it alone. We need unity and a clear vision from the top down.
