Lions Announce Six Captains for 2025 Season as Leadership Core Takes Shape

Lions Announce Six Captains for 2025 Season as Leadership Core Takes Shape

The Detroit Lions are set to embark on one of the most anticipated seasons in franchise history, and on Tuesday the team unveiled a leadership group they believe will anchor them through the challenges of a demanding campaign. Head coach Dan Campbell announced six players as official team captains for the 2025 season: quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, right tackle Penei Sewell, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, linebacker Alex Anzalone, and linebacker/special teams standout Grant Stuard.

This mix of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and an unexpected newcomer represents the balance Campbell has long sought to cultivate in Detroit’s locker room. Coming off a historic 15–2 season in 2024, the Lions enter this year with high expectations, but also a sense of unfinished business after their surprising early playoff exit. For Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, leadership was a critical box to check before the season officially begins.

Jared Goff: The Steady Signal-Caller

It’s no surprise that Jared Goff was handed the captain’s “C” once again. The 29-year-old quarterback has revitalized his career in Detroit, emerging not only as a Pro Bowl-level passer but also as a steady voice of composure in a locker room filled with young talent. Entering his fourth season with the Lions, Goff has earned the respect of teammates with his resilience, preparation, and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.

“This is Jared’s team,” Campbell said during the announcement. “He sets the tone every week, and the guys feed off his calm confidence. He’s been through ups and downs in this league, and that experience makes him invaluable as a leader.”

Amon-Ra St. Brown: The Young Star

Joining Goff on the offensive side is Amon-Ra St. Brown, who was named a captain for the first time in his career. The 24-year-old receiver has been nothing short of electric since being drafted in 2021, compiling multiple 1,000-yard seasons and earning recognition as one of the NFL’s premier route runners. His work ethic has become legendary within the organization, and Campbell emphasized that his relentless approach to improvement inspired teammates to vote him into the captaincy role.

“Amon-Ra leads by example every single day,” Campbell said. “He’s the first one in, the last one out, and he demands excellence from himself. That kind of commitment is contagious.”

Penei Sewell: The Tone-Setter in the Trenches

Right tackle Penei Sewell, entering his fifth season, was also chosen as a captain. Known for his physicality and fiery presence, Sewell is regarded as one of the NFL’s best offensive linemen. He embodies the gritty, tough-minded culture Campbell has been building since his arrival.

“Penei plays with a passion that lifts the whole offense,” Goff said when asked about his teammate. “He’s not just protecting me—he’s setting the attitude for our entire team.”

Aidan Hutchinson: The Defensive Cornerstone

On defense, third-year edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson was the obvious choice. The hometown star from Michigan has blossomed into the face of Detroit’s defense, tallying double-digit sacks in back-to-back seasons. Beyond his on-field dominance, Hutchinson has shown a willingness to hold teammates accountable, a quality Campbell sees as critical.

“Aidan is wired like the greats,” Campbell said. “He’s got the talent, but he also has the drive and the discipline to push others to another level.”

Alex Anzalone: The Veteran Anchor

Linebacker Alex Anzalone continues his role as a defensive captain for the fifth consecutive season. One of Campbell’s trusted lieutenants since their days together in New Orleans, Anzalone has been the glue of Detroit’s linebacker corps. His consistency, knowledge of the system, and ability to mentor younger players make him an indispensable leader.

“Alex is that steady hand,” Campbell said. “When chaos hits, he’s the one who calms the storm.”

Grant Stuard: The Surprise Addition

Perhaps the most intriguing name on the list is linebacker and special teams ace Grant Stuard, who was voted in as a captain despite being relatively new to Detroit. Known for his fiery energy and fearless tackling, Stuard has carved out a reputation as one of the NFL’s most relentless competitors. His emergence as a captain highlights the team’s appreciation for grit and effort in all phases of the game.

“Grant embodies everything we want in a Lion,” Campbell explained. “He may not be a household name, but his teammates see the impact he makes every single play.”

A Leadership Group Built for the Long Haul

By naming this group of six, the Lions are signaling their confidence in a core that blends youth with veteran savvy. The leadership spans every level of the roster—offense, defense, and special teams—ensuring that the Lions have steady voices to rely on regardless of the situation.

For a franchise aiming to follow up on a record-breaking season and chase a Super Bowl berth, the importance of leadership cannot be overstated. The Lions’ captains will be tasked not only with guiding their teammates through the highs and lows of the season but also with embodying the culture of accountability, toughness, and belief that Campbell has instilled.

“Captains aren’t just about wearing a patch,” Campbell said. “They’re about being the standard every day. These six guys are ready for that responsibility, and I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

With the 2025 season now on the horizon, Detroit’s newly named captains will step onto the field knowing they carry both the trust of their teammates and the weight of a city eager for another run at history.