The Detroit Lions enter the 2024 season with unprecedented expectations. After last year’s painful loss in the NFC Championship Game, where they blew a 24-7 halftime lead, there’s a palpable “Super Bowl or bust” sentiment surrounding the team.
Amid these high expectations, several Lions players face pivotal seasons in their careers. Whether you call it a make-or-break, critical, or defining year, the success of the team might hinge on the performances of these individuals, whose career trajectories could shift dramatically, either positively or negatively, based on this season’s outcomes.
With that in mind, here are five Lions players who are facing make-or-break seasons in 2024.
**5. S Ifeatu Melifonwu**
Melifonwu became a key part of the Lions’ defense when he stepped into the starting lineup in Week 14 last year. Healthy and utilized effectively, he was a defensive force down the stretch.
From Weeks 14-18, Melifonwu earned the fourth-highest overall Pro Football Focus grade among safeties (83.7). During that span and through the NFC Championship Game, he recorded five sacks, 42 tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, seven pass breakups, and eight quarterback hits.
However, there are concerns surrounding Melifonwu, including another injury that raises doubts about his availability for the season opener (though not enough to place him on IR). The emergence of Brian Branch at safety could also limit his role, but Aaron Glenn is expected to find ways to get him on the field.
Additionally, Melifonwu is entering the final year of his rookie contract, making it crucial for him to stay healthy and maintain his role in the Lions’ secondary.
**4. DT Levi Onwuzurike**
Onwuzurike carried his positive momentum from OTAs into training camp, quickly dispelling any notion that he was on the roster bubble once the pads came on. He even saw some snaps as a defensive end, suggesting a versatile role in the Lions’ defensive front as he finally returns to full health after dealing with back issues.
Now, as the regular season begins, it’s time for the 2021 second-round pick to make an impact, regardless of his role or snap count. Staying healthy will be crucial for him to showcase his potential.
**3. EDGE James Houston**
Houston made a strong impression as a rookie with eight sacks in seven games, but a fractured ankle sidelined him for most of last season. While he gets a pass for that injury, this preseason and training camp were still critical for him.
A knee injury in the preseason opener caused him to miss the second game, and efforts to expand his role beyond edge rushing were temporarily halted.
Despite this, Houston secured a spot on the 53-man roster with a solid performance in the preseason finale. However, his place on the team remains uncertain, as Dan Campbell alluded to the lack of a consistent “body of work” since the 2023 training camp.
The Lions need a pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson, and Houston could be that player, but he must deliver on his potential.
**2. EDGE Marcus Davenport**
The Lions took a chance on Davenport in free agency, hoping he could be the player to step up opposite Hutchinson.
Last season, the Minnesota Vikings had similar hopes for the former first-round pick opposite Danielle Hunter, but Davenport played in only four games due to an ankle injury, leaving them disappointed.
Since his best season in 2021, when he recorded nine sacks for the Saints, Davenport has only 2.5 sacks over the past two seasons (19 games). Injuries have plagued his career, with multiple surgeries after 2021 and at least three missed games each season except one.
Davenport has signed “prove-it” deals in consecutive offseasons. If he doesn’t significantly outperform his time with the Vikings, finding another opportunity in 2025 might be challenging.
**1. WR Jameson Williams**
Williams is entering a crucial third season with the Lions, with the team giving him every chance to emerge as a key player. Unlike his first two seasons, which were marred by injury and other setbacks, there are no more excuses this year. He gained the coaching staff’s trust late last season, earning more playing time and showing signs of a breakout.
Williams has embraced the heightened expectations, speaking of increased maturity. He carried his strong form from OTAs through training camp, appearing noticeably stronger and more polished. As a deep threat, Williams offers the Lions’ offense a unique weapon that no one else on the roster can provide.
However, his lack of production in his first two seasons as an early-round pick still lingers. This year, if Williams stays healthy, focused, and productive, he can shift any lingering negative narratives.
As the season approaches, the pressure is on for Williams to deliver. While it’s hard to quantify what a breakout season would look like, it’s easy to recognize what a disappointing one would be. Williams must get it done this year, or he risks being labeled with a very unfavorable “b” word. The Lions also face a decision on his fifth-year option next offseason, adding another layer of significance to this season.
