Dan Campbell’s Lions make key roster moves to support Jared Goff ahead of 2025 NFL season

Jared Goff will look to build on last season’s success in the NFL, but more importantly, his focus will be on surpassing those results. A key factor in achieving that will be having a roster capable of rising to the occasion — something head coach Dan Campbell is also determined to secure for his Detroit Lions.

While the Lions made a smart move in the latest Draft by selecting defensive tackle Tyleik Williams with the No. 28 overall pick, the roster adjustments didn’t stop there. Several new faces have since started to emerge as part of Detroit’s evolving lineup.

In recent hours, it was reported that defensive lineman Keith Cooper has signed with the franchise, adding depth to a unit that’s expected to face strong internal competition in the coming weeks. The talented defender is coming off his last season with the Houston Cougars.

During his college career, Cooper recorded 119 total tackles, 14 sacks, and 26 tackles for loss. In his final season with the Cougars, he added 3.5 sacks and nine tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to be a disruptive force on the defensive line.

Keith Cooper Jr. #5 of the Houston Cougars celebrates after sacking Josh Hoover #10 of the TCU Horned Frogs during the first half at Amon G. Carter Stadium on October 4, 2024 in Fort Worth, Texas.

Still, Cooper’s spot on Dan Campbell’s final roster is far from guaranteed. He’ll have to compete for a place alongside Mekhi Wingo, Josh Paschal, Levi Onwuzurike, and veteran Marcus Davenport.

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Other roster moves by the Lions

Securing Keith Cooper’s services for the upcoming NFL season wasn’t the only recent move made by Detroit. In recent days, GM Brad Holmes had made it clear that the team would continue targeting defensive players — and that’s exactly what they did, while also adding potential weapons to support Jared Goff on offense.

In recent hours, the Lions have also signed tight end Luke Deal, wide receiver Malik Taylor, and defensive lineman Raequan Williams, who played his college football at Michigan State.

On the other hand, the franchise has decided to part ways with tight end Caden Prieskorn and offensive lineman Leif Fautanu, who will no longer be under Dan Campbell’s direction moving forward.