Lions' Alim McNeill Expected to Miss Start of 2025 Season

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill is likely to miss the start of the 2025 NFL season due to a torn ACL he suffered in December. Both head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have expressed optimism about his recovery but confirmed that he is not expected to return for training camp or the early part of the season. McNeill had been a key player for the Lions, leading the team's interior defenders with 3.5 sacks and 43 quarterback pressures last season before his injury. The Lions have signed Roy Lopez and re-signed other players to help fill the void in McNeill's absence. The team emphasizes cautious management of McNeill's recovery to ensure he returns to full health. His potential absence is expected to impact the Lions' defense significantly as they aim to maintain a strong run-stopping unit.