The team announced Tuesday, March 18, 2025, that the Detroit Lions continue reinforcing their defensive front, bringing back former Eastern Michigan University standout Pat O’Connor on a one-year deal.
O’Connor, who initially signed with Detroit during training camp last year, played a crucial role in the team’s defensive rotation. Despite starting the season on the practice squad, he was called into action following a series of injuries that sidelined key defensive linemen, including Aidan Hutchinson, Alim McNeill, Marcus Davenport, Kyle Peko, and Mekhi Wingo. O’Connor appeared in 12 games, tallying 18 tackles and one sack.
Lions general manager Brad Holmes emphasized the importance of depth during the NFL Combine in February, pointing to O’Connor as an example of how mid-season signings can become essential for a team’s success. Holmes clarified that adding reliable depth remains a priority, mainly after the Lions battled significant injuries throughout the 2024 season.
Initially drafted by the Lions in 2017, O'Connor spent most of his professional career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before returning to Detroit. His re-signing makes him the 13th free agent the Lions have retained this offseason as the team looks to maintain continuity and stability on defense.
In addition to O’Connor, the Lions also announced the return of tight end Shane Zylstra and finalized a deal with running back Craig Reynolds. The moves come as the team prepares for a 2025 season that could begin without McNeill, who is recovering from a late-season knee injury. With McNeill’s status uncertain, the Lions have worked to reinforce the interior defensive line, re-signing Levi Onwuzurike and adding Roy Lopez in free agency.
As Detroit continues to build for the upcoming season, maintaining experienced depth remains a top priority. To read more about O’Connor, please check out our previous coverage here.
