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Former Detroitdefensive powerhouse Tyson Alualu warns there is an "identity crisis" facing the Lions. The veteran tackle, who was part of the squad that transformed the Lions from NFL laughing stocks into genuine title contenders, believes the team is at a crossroads.

After a season that disappointingly saw the Lionsstumble to a 9-8 finish and miss the playoffs, fans are asking: what on earth went wrong? For Alualu, the answer starts in the coaches’ room, where the departure of tactical masterminds Ben Johnson and Aaron Glenn left a void bigger than anyone could have foreseen.

John Morton and Kelvin Sheppard took over the reins, but the transition from the old guard was clearly a stumbling block for a team that had Super Bowl aspirations. Alualu said: "Losing their OC and DC in the same year, it has to contribute to them not having the same success, but it’s one of those.

"I’m not saying the new ones aren’t as good, but it will take some time for them to figure out what works, what is best for the team.

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Despite the tactical shake-up, Alualu remains convinced that the foundations laid by the head coach are the key to any future resurgence.

"When I was there, I felt like it was all about the culture and what Dan Campbell was building," the veteran interior lineman said.

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"I thought the culture was what made the team special. As long as they keep the core group of guys there, it will set the standard for what is expected from your coaches and top players."

The 2025 campaign was defined by agonising narrow losses, including a three-point heartbreak against the Vikings and a seven-point slip against the Eagles.

"They lost a lot of close games that they should have won," Alualu said. "It’s hard to say, but I think it’s a huge loss to lose your OC and DC in the same season, but I still think they will be contenders in this league for years to come.

"I feel like they had the right pieces. They had some good depth in the D-line. Some good veterans who played good football.

"Some young guys that can play the Lions’ style of football. I don’t think I’d say they were missing experience.

"Maybe overall they lost some key contributors on defence that made them struggle a bit. But I don’t think it was experience they were missing.

"I think it was bad luck and injuries happening at the wrong time. Hopefully they can become better from it."

Tyson Alualu was speaking to BOYLE Sports, who offer the latest NFL odds ahead of the Super Bowl.