The Detroit Lions have placed defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list, which ensures he will miss at least the first four games of the 2025 regular season. The team has not disclosed the specific nature of his injury, creating some uncertainty around his timeline for return.
The reserve/PUP designation differs from the active list as it applies to injuries that prevent players from practicing or playing at the start of the season.
Onwuzurike Returns After Surgery as McNeill and Wingo Join Injury List
Onwuzurike, 27, re-signed with the Lions on a one-year deal this offseason following a strong comeback in 2024. After missing the entire 2022 season due to a serious back injury that required spinal fusion surgery, he made a notable return last season.
He played in 16 games, starting 10, and recorded 28 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a personal-best 13 quarterback hits. His performance last season was considered a career resurgence and likely contributed to his new deal with the team.
Levi Onwuzurike (NFL)In addition to Onwuzurike, fellow defensive tackles Alim McNeill and Mekhi Wingo were placed on the active/PUP list prior to training camp. McNeill is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in December, while Wingo is rehabbing a knee injury from November.
Unlike the reserve list, players on the active/PUP list can be activated at any point during camp once they pass a physical. McNeill had a productive 2024 season with 3.5 sacks and 25 tackles in 14 starts.
Lions Manage Wider Injury Concerns with Multiple Players on PUP and NFI Lists
The Lions’ injury-related designations extended beyond the defensive line. Left tackle Taylor Decker, cornerback Khalil Dorsey, guard Miles Frazier, and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez were also placed on the active/PUP list. These players are expected to return during camp once they’re cleared medically. These moves are standard procedure in training camp to manage players still in recovery without exposing them to early contact or risk.
Defensive end Josh Paschal and cornerback Stantley Thomas-Oliver III were added to the non-football injury list, indicating their ailments are unrelated to football activities. Meanwhile, running back Anthony Tyus III was waived with a non-football illness designation. These roster decisions reflect a broader strategy by the Lions to manage health concerns conservatively as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
