A team is only as good as its weakest link.
The Detroit Lions learned that the hard way in 2024, when their depth was severely tested across multiple positions. In particular, the defense was getting battered on a near-weekly basis. From losing linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs, the Lions were turning over every leaf to find replacements when the injury bug bit hard.
In fairness to the roster built by general manager Brad Holmes last season, the Lions had proper depth at many of these positions. The reality is that no team prepares to start their seventh-string defensive end or a poached practice squad player at the onset of a season.