Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
As far as Trey goes, probably just more talk radio blather that turns into zip, just like Maxx and Myles. Odds are Trey and the Bengals eventually settle on something.
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2025 Detroit Lions: 0-0 HOF Game on tape, as DC said..."We got work to do" (29 Viewers)
- Thread starter Da Guru
- Start date
King of the Jungle
Footballguy
I would agree. I have think they will have a hard time finding someone to trade useful assets and willing to pay big money for the soon to be 31 year old. The more I think about it, the less interest I have in him. Micah however…
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Lions camp observations: Defense starts hot in scrimmage work, backup QBs pick offense up late
Allen Park — Here are some notes and observations from the Detroit Lions’ Tuesday morning training camp practice, conducted outdoors in a light but steady rain.
● As always, let’s start with a participation report.
Not practicing: Safety Kerby Joseph (knee), safety Morice Norris (concussion), wide receiver Malik Taylor, defensive tackle Brodric Martin, offensive lineman Trystan Colon (center) and defensive end Ahmed Hassanein (pec).
Returning to practice was tight end Sam Laporta, who missed the past two days of camp with an undisclosed injury. Additionally, defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo was activated off the physically unable to perform list. Not surprisingly, given the long layoff, he was limited to individual drills his first day back.
Encouragingly, Norris was running on the side under the supervision of a trainer, implying he’s slowly progressing through the return-to-play protocol after being taken off the field by ambulance during the team's second preseason game.
There were no major injuries during the long, physical, padded practice. Safety Brian Branch was in and out of the lineup in the back half of practice for precautionary reasons. Meanwhile, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown had to get the thumb on his right hand taped after taking a ball awkwardly off it during individual drills.
● In terms of one-on-ones, I focused on a position mathcup I haven’t watched all camp: The linebackers and box safeties going toe-to-toe with the running backs and tight ends.
The work started with blitz pickup. The offensive players got off to a strong start with David Montgomery stalling out Jack Campbell, and the returning LaPorta stuffing Trevor Nowaskie. The defense managed to get on the board when undrafted rookie Ian Kennelly blew by Jahmyr Gibbs’ blocking effort.
Other offensive wins went to Craig Reynolds, who stopped Alex Anzalone’s blitz. Sione Vaki did the same to safety Loren Strickland. Defensively, Derrick Barnes got by tight end Gunnar Oakes with minimal resistance, and Grant Stuard plowed through Erick Hallett.
The competition shifted to receiving, where the offensive players predictably won most of the matchups. Tight end Shane Zytlra was a standout, winning both of his reps with easy separation at the top of his routes. He beat Anzalone on a dig pattern and Strickland on a go ball down the seam.
Meanwhile, Gibbs put Campbell in a blender, and Reynolds cooked Anthony Pittman running a slant.
Defensively, Stuard held up well. He gave up a contested catch to Montgomery, but blanketed the out route. The linebacker got the win on a second rep, breaking up a throw for tight end Zach Horton.
● Practice shifted to a full-team scrimmage with the defense dominating the early possessions. In the opening matchup between the first-team units, the offense went three-and-out. Barnes stuffed a Montgomery run on second down to set up third-and-4, with DJ Reed smothering St. Brown to force an incompletion on the play.
The second-team offense also went three-and-out with Sione Vaki getting stuffed on first and second down, once by Kennelly, and Tom Kennedy getting stopped short of the sticks on third-and-7. QB Kyle Allen tried to draw the defense offside on fourth down, but the front four didn’t bite on the hard count.
The first teams came back in, and a first down remained elusive. Reed broke up a second-down throw intended for St. Brown, and safety Rock Ya-Sin was in position to deliver a thunderous hit on a slant to Jameson Williams on third-and-9, but was a good teammate, holding up on laying the lumber.
● The offense finally got a “win” when Vaki broke contain for a huge gain around the left side of the formation. That led to a third-and-5 where Hendon Hooker sidestepped pressure in the pocket and squeezed a throw into a minuscule window to a crossing TeSlaa, who had almost no separation from cornerback Tyson Russell.
● Working the scenario of being pinned deep, the first-team offense was given the ball at their own 1-yard line. They crawled out of the hole with two Montgomery runs for 8 yards, followed by Goff hitting Williams across the middle for an explosive gain.
Gibbs gained another first down with three straight runs. Rookie defender Tyleik Williams got barked at for his gap discipline during that series of plays. Regardless, the defense turned the tide with Amik Robertson forcing an incompletion on a throw to Kalif Raymond and Moore contesting a sideline shot to St. Brown that the receiver couldn’t hang on to through contact with the ground.
● After a special teams segment, the first-team offense went back to work from its own 40. Honestly, Branch should have been credited with ruining the drive. However, the coaches only rewarded him for one of two sacks on successful blitzes. Branch was also in a position to deliver a punishing hit to Williams, but the speedy receiver dropped the ball.
After that play, Branch left the field with his minor injury concern, giving way to Kennelly. That’s where things briefly clicked for the offense, with St. Brown getting free from the coverage of Arnold to convert a third-and-long.
Facing third-and-13 after Robertson stopped Montgomery for a loss on second down, St. Brown was stopped 2 yards shy of the sticks in the red zone. Going for it on fourth down, Zylstra popped free into the flat and coasted down the right sideline for a 17-yard touchdown, the first-team’s first of the day.
● The twos, with Allen at the helm, also found paydirt. Tim Patrick boxed out cornerback Allen George on a post pattern to move the chains. Still, the offense found itself in a second-and-20 hole after a holding call before Allen dropped a dime between layers of the zone coverage along the left sideline to Dominic Lovett, where the rookie receiver made a toe-tapping catch.
From there, a nice run and a screen to running back Jacob Saylors set up first-and-goal from the 2-yard line, with Vaki cruising around the right side untouched to put the finishing touches on the drive.
● Up next was red zone work, with the offense starting at the 20-yard line. The first unit stayed hot with Goff finding St. Brown for a 4-yard score on third-and-goal when the receiver easily shook the coverage of Arnold on a hitch to the front pylon.
Allen checked in with the second group and couldn’t keep things rolling, missing tight end Steven Stilianos on third-and-2 from the 11.
● Hooker came in for the third red zone series, leading the second-team offense against Detroit’s starting defense. The backup fighting for his roster life needed two plays to find the end zone.
It didn’t hurt that Craig Reynolds ran through a defender for a 10-yard gain on first down. Then, with first-and-goal from the 10, Hooker put a clean ball on the chest of Jakobie Keeney-James, who beat Robertson on a slant, losing a shoe as he plunged across the goal line.
● From there, the second-team defense got a crack at the first-team offense. Again, it was the backups scoring the win. After Montgomery converted a fourth-and-2 to the 7, Goff was flagged for delay of game. Working to third-and-goal from the 5, the offense tried to catch the defense napping with a handoff to Gibbs, but veteran linebacker Zach Cunningham met the back in the hole for a minimal gain, forcing a field goal.
Notably, during that series, cornerback DJ Miller perfectly played an out route to St. Brown and netted a PBU. The late-camp addition isn't going to forget that play any time soon.
● Worth noting, undrafted rookie Keith Cooper saw reps with both the first and second-team defenses and netted a couple of impressive run stops during this stretch, one from an edge alignment and another inside.
● Practice ended with two end-of-game situations. The first-team offense was given the ball at midfield, down three, with 56 remaining and one timeout.
It didn’t go well.
Goff was nearly picked by Hallett, playing safety, on a first-down slant to St. Brown. And the QB made every effort to turn it over again on second down, but Reed lost his footing on the wet grass, causing the ball to bounce off his hands.
Barnes should have been credited with a sack on third down. However, the play was allowed to continue, leading to a short throw to tight end Brock Wright that set up fourth-and-7, where Goff sailed a throw to an open St. Brown across the middle.
● The second team, led by Allen, started at their own 42, down a touchdown, with 1:06 remaining and two timeouts.
It wasn’t a smooth series, but the veteran QB got the job done, first by drawing defensive tackle Myles Adams offside on fourth-and-1 to extend the drive. The QB then connected with TeSlaa down to the 25, before finding Tom Kennedy on fourth-and-10, where the receiver juked past cornerback Nick Whiteside to secure the first.
With 10 seconds remaining from the 14, Allen quickly went to Kennedy, who got out of bounds after a 10-yard pickup. Allen then capped the scoring drive by hitting Patrick along the back line of the end zone after the veteran got separation on Whiteside.
● As always, let’s start with a participation report.
Not practicing: Safety Kerby Joseph (knee), safety Morice Norris (concussion), wide receiver Malik Taylor, defensive tackle Brodric Martin, offensive lineman Trystan Colon (center) and defensive end Ahmed Hassanein (pec).
Returning to practice was tight end Sam Laporta, who missed the past two days of camp with an undisclosed injury. Additionally, defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo was activated off the physically unable to perform list. Not surprisingly, given the long layoff, he was limited to individual drills his first day back.
Encouragingly, Norris was running on the side under the supervision of a trainer, implying he’s slowly progressing through the return-to-play protocol after being taken off the field by ambulance during the team's second preseason game.
There were no major injuries during the long, physical, padded practice. Safety Brian Branch was in and out of the lineup in the back half of practice for precautionary reasons. Meanwhile, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown had to get the thumb on his right hand taped after taking a ball awkwardly off it during individual drills.
● In terms of one-on-ones, I focused on a position mathcup I haven’t watched all camp: The linebackers and box safeties going toe-to-toe with the running backs and tight ends.
The work started with blitz pickup. The offensive players got off to a strong start with David Montgomery stalling out Jack Campbell, and the returning LaPorta stuffing Trevor Nowaskie. The defense managed to get on the board when undrafted rookie Ian Kennelly blew by Jahmyr Gibbs’ blocking effort.
Other offensive wins went to Craig Reynolds, who stopped Alex Anzalone’s blitz. Sione Vaki did the same to safety Loren Strickland. Defensively, Derrick Barnes got by tight end Gunnar Oakes with minimal resistance, and Grant Stuard plowed through Erick Hallett.
The competition shifted to receiving, where the offensive players predictably won most of the matchups. Tight end Shane Zytlra was a standout, winning both of his reps with easy separation at the top of his routes. He beat Anzalone on a dig pattern and Strickland on a go ball down the seam.
Meanwhile, Gibbs put Campbell in a blender, and Reynolds cooked Anthony Pittman running a slant.
Defensively, Stuard held up well. He gave up a contested catch to Montgomery, but blanketed the out route. The linebacker got the win on a second rep, breaking up a throw for tight end Zach Horton.
● Practice shifted to a full-team scrimmage with the defense dominating the early possessions. In the opening matchup between the first-team units, the offense went three-and-out. Barnes stuffed a Montgomery run on second down to set up third-and-4, with DJ Reed smothering St. Brown to force an incompletion on the play.
The second-team offense also went three-and-out with Sione Vaki getting stuffed on first and second down, once by Kennelly, and Tom Kennedy getting stopped short of the sticks on third-and-7. QB Kyle Allen tried to draw the defense offside on fourth down, but the front four didn’t bite on the hard count.
The first teams came back in, and a first down remained elusive. Reed broke up a second-down throw intended for St. Brown, and safety Rock Ya-Sin was in position to deliver a thunderous hit on a slant to Jameson Williams on third-and-9, but was a good teammate, holding up on laying the lumber.
● The offense finally got a “win” when Vaki broke contain for a huge gain around the left side of the formation. That led to a third-and-5 where Hendon Hooker sidestepped pressure in the pocket and squeezed a throw into a minuscule window to a crossing TeSlaa, who had almost no separation from cornerback Tyson Russell.
● Working the scenario of being pinned deep, the first-team offense was given the ball at their own 1-yard line. They crawled out of the hole with two Montgomery runs for 8 yards, followed by Goff hitting Williams across the middle for an explosive gain.
Gibbs gained another first down with three straight runs. Rookie defender Tyleik Williams got barked at for his gap discipline during that series of plays. Regardless, the defense turned the tide with Amik Robertson forcing an incompletion on a throw to Kalif Raymond and Moore contesting a sideline shot to St. Brown that the receiver couldn’t hang on to through contact with the ground.
● After a special teams segment, the first-team offense went back to work from its own 40. Honestly, Branch should have been credited with ruining the drive. However, the coaches only rewarded him for one of two sacks on successful blitzes. Branch was also in a position to deliver a punishing hit to Williams, but the speedy receiver dropped the ball.
After that play, Branch left the field with his minor injury concern, giving way to Kennelly. That’s where things briefly clicked for the offense, with St. Brown getting free from the coverage of Arnold to convert a third-and-long.
Facing third-and-13 after Robertson stopped Montgomery for a loss on second down, St. Brown was stopped 2 yards shy of the sticks in the red zone. Going for it on fourth down, Zylstra popped free into the flat and coasted down the right sideline for a 17-yard touchdown, the first-team’s first of the day.
● The twos, with Allen at the helm, also found paydirt. Tim Patrick boxed out cornerback Allen George on a post pattern to move the chains. Still, the offense found itself in a second-and-20 hole after a holding call before Allen dropped a dime between layers of the zone coverage along the left sideline to Dominic Lovett, where the rookie receiver made a toe-tapping catch.
From there, a nice run and a screen to running back Jacob Saylors set up first-and-goal from the 2-yard line, with Vaki cruising around the right side untouched to put the finishing touches on the drive.
● Up next was red zone work, with the offense starting at the 20-yard line. The first unit stayed hot with Goff finding St. Brown for a 4-yard score on third-and-goal when the receiver easily shook the coverage of Arnold on a hitch to the front pylon.
Allen checked in with the second group and couldn’t keep things rolling, missing tight end Steven Stilianos on third-and-2 from the 11.
● Hooker came in for the third red zone series, leading the second-team offense against Detroit’s starting defense. The backup fighting for his roster life needed two plays to find the end zone.
It didn’t hurt that Craig Reynolds ran through a defender for a 10-yard gain on first down. Then, with first-and-goal from the 10, Hooker put a clean ball on the chest of Jakobie Keeney-James, who beat Robertson on a slant, losing a shoe as he plunged across the goal line.
● From there, the second-team defense got a crack at the first-team offense. Again, it was the backups scoring the win. After Montgomery converted a fourth-and-2 to the 7, Goff was flagged for delay of game. Working to third-and-goal from the 5, the offense tried to catch the defense napping with a handoff to Gibbs, but veteran linebacker Zach Cunningham met the back in the hole for a minimal gain, forcing a field goal.
Notably, during that series, cornerback DJ Miller perfectly played an out route to St. Brown and netted a PBU. The late-camp addition isn't going to forget that play any time soon.
● Worth noting, undrafted rookie Keith Cooper saw reps with both the first and second-team defenses and netted a couple of impressive run stops during this stretch, one from an edge alignment and another inside.
● Practice ended with two end-of-game situations. The first-team offense was given the ball at midfield, down three, with 56 remaining and one timeout.
It didn’t go well.
Goff was nearly picked by Hallett, playing safety, on a first-down slant to St. Brown. And the QB made every effort to turn it over again on second down, but Reed lost his footing on the wet grass, causing the ball to bounce off his hands.
Barnes should have been credited with a sack on third down. However, the play was allowed to continue, leading to a short throw to tight end Brock Wright that set up fourth-and-7, where Goff sailed a throw to an open St. Brown across the middle.
● The second team, led by Allen, started at their own 42, down a touchdown, with 1:06 remaining and two timeouts.
It wasn’t a smooth series, but the veteran QB got the job done, first by drawing defensive tackle Myles Adams offside on fourth-and-1 to extend the drive. The QB then connected with TeSlaa down to the 25, before finding Tom Kennedy on fourth-and-10, where the receiver juked past cornerback Nick Whiteside to secure the first.
With 10 seconds remaining from the 14, Allen quickly went to Kennedy, who got out of bounds after a 10-yard pickup. Allen then capped the scoring drive by hitting Patrick along the back line of the end zone after the veteran got separation on Whiteside.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Hassanein’s torn pectoral will not require surgery. Although he’ll start the year on IR there is still a chance he is designated IR-R (teams get up to 8 per year.)
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Lions training camp Day 16 observations: 2 UDFAs stand out
Pride of Detroit’s Jeremy Reisman highlights rookies Ian Kennelly (Grand Valley State) and DT Keith Cooper (Tulane, Houston.) Along with WR Jackson Meeks, it’s looking like 3 UDFAs will keep the UDFA streak alive.
(At least one UDFA rookie has made the team since 2010.)
That’s really impressive for Cooper because he wasn’t among the initial signings after the draft concluded. Came to rookie minicamp on a tryout basis and earned his spot on the 90 man.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Lions observations: Don't write off Hooker for roster spot; Morrice Norris is back already?
Hendon Hooker not win the Detroit Lions backup quarterback job, but I wouldn’t count him out for a roster spot just yet.
Hooker has done some good things in practice this summer and is a perceptibly better quarterback today than he was a season ago.
His stats from the Lions' first three preseason games aren't pretty – 16-for-29 passing (55.2%) for 117 yards with no touchdowns, two interceptions and two lost fumbles – but he played well in the team's intrasquad scrimmage Tuesday and will have a chance to leave coaches with a strong impression in Saturday's exhibition finale against the Houston Texans.
On Tuesday, Hooker led the Lions' second-team offense on a short scoring drive against the first-team defense and was the only one of the team's three quarterbacks to move the ball in the first four possessions of the offense backed up inside its own 15-yard line.
Sione Vaki had two big runs on a drive that started at the minus-12-yard line to get the offense near midfield, but Hooker made a nice throw to Isaac TeSlaa a few plays later on third-and-5 from the 47 to move the offense into field-goal range. Hooker sidestepped a blitz and dropped a ball just out of reach of Tyson Russell where only TeSlaa could catch it.
In his only series against the mostly first-team defense later in practice (with possession starting at the plus-20-yard line) Hooker led a two-play drive that ended in the end zone. Ian Kennelly, who was filling in for Brian Branch on the drive, took a poor angle on a 10-yard Craig Reynolds run on the first play from scrimamge (and was replaced by Erick Hallett on the next play), then Hooker threw a touchdown pass to Jakobie Keeney-James against Amik Robertson.
Lions coach Dan Campbell said last week he trusts Kyle Allen more than Hooker for now as Jared Goff's backup, and he's right to do so. Allen has had a better camp overall and played well in last week's preseason game.
But Hooker should get the start and an extended look against the Texans and has a strong case to make the team as the No. 3 quarterback.
Here's some more news, notes and observations from Tuesday's practice:
Morice Norris is back on field, but is it too soon?
The Lions practiced outside Tuesday despite a light sprinkle that caused them to cancel the fan access that was scheduled for family and corporate partners. They have a walk-through Wednesday and a joint practice with the Texans – and the final public access of the summer – on Thursday.
I'll get more into the details of the controlled scrimmage shortly, but I have to start with Morice Norris' first appearance at practice since he was taken off the field by ambulance in the team's Aug. 8 preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Norris went through a pretty thorough workout with a Lions trainer during the team's individual and group periods. He ran in the end zone and did backpedal drills on the field, while wearing a helmet and full pads, and at one point was hunched over catching his breath in the middle of the workout. Norris remains in concussion protocol, did not practice and did not talk to reporters after practice, but after his workout was done he watched the end of practice in a black shirt and his uniform pants from the defensive sideline.
Teams have to put full trust in their medical personnel when it comes to players returning from brain injuries. We don't know all the details of Norris' situation, but I still was shocked to see him on the field Tuesday 11 days after his injury.
Norris' body was seizing after he fell lifeless to the ground as medical personnel tended to him after his injury. I thought for sure his season would be over or at least the Lions would put him on injured reserve to start the year. They still might when the roster deadline comes next week, and in my untrained opinion that's still the most prudent approach for the team to take with Norris' health.
More personnel notes
Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo took part in position drills only in his first practice back from the physically unable to perform list. Wingo suffered a torn meniscus in his knee last Thanksgiving.
Tight end Sam LaPorta was back at practice for the first time in more than a week, but did not take part in team drills. Rock Ya-Sin continued to take first-team reps at safety with Kerby Joseph out with a knee injury.
And Amon-Ra St. Brown got his right thumb taped during position drills but returned to practice, though I didn't see what happened to cause the injury.
Brian Branch looks like a star
Branch had a huge day. He had a couple would-be sacks during the scrimmage period and was as sharp as I've seen him in coverage in one-on-one route work.
Branch had an impressive pass breakup on a Jared Goff throw to St. Brown in one-on-ones, when he ran in phase with St. Brown on a route down the sideline and stuck his right hand up to deflect the ball. He blanketed Kalif Raymond on a deep pass a few plays later that fell incomplete in the end zone. As he ran past me out of bounds, he seemed to be kicking himself that the first play wasn't a pick.
The Lions started their scrimmage with five "backed-up" series with the offense in the shadow of its own end zone, then ran a couple series each from the minus-40 and plus-20 before ending with situational football.
I thought Branch had would-be sacks on two of the first three plays with the offense starting at its 40, though Dan Campbell didn't blow either play dead. Branch beat Shane Zylstra off left end on the first play of the period, which coaches marked off as a short pass to Jahmyr Gibbs, then had a sack on first-and-10 from the plus-48 when Goff double-clutched a throw under pressure.
Branch is the one starter in the Lions secondary that hasn't missed a day due to injury this summer. He should have a huge year if he stays healthy.
One-on-one winners
TeSlaa showed great concentration to make a juggling catch on a comeback route that was tipped by Avonte Maddox. Nick Whiteside and D.J. Miller had interceptions on deep balls from Allen to Tom Kennedy. And Terrion Arnold had a pass breakup on a Goff pass to Jameson Williams, when Williams tried about four moves to lose Arnold at the line of scrimmage with no success.
Who’s making plays?
In the scrimmage portion of practice, which included simulated crowd noise, the first-team offense went three-and-out on its first two "backed-up drives" before picking up two first downs on its third drive of the period. Goff threw a 22-yard pass to Williams on third-and-3 from 8, and Gibbs had a 6-yard run up the gut to move the chains again two plays later. The offense couldn't get the ball past midfield, however, as Goff threw incomplete to St. Brown on a third-and-5 play with Hutchinson bringing pressure up the middle.
The first-team offense scored its first touchdown of the scrimmage on its first drive from the 40, though would-be sacks by Branch (twice) and potentially Alex Anzalone weren't marked off. Goff completed a 22-yard pass to St. Brown on third-and-10 on the Anzalone play, and four plays later threw a touchdown to Zylstra after he slipped a block against Derrick Barnes in the right flat.
Zylstra's TD came one play after Goff threw a 12-yard pass to St. Brown on third-and-14, and the Lions decided try and convert on fourth-and-2.
Vaki scored on a short run for the second-team offense, when he bounced a carry outside and followed a good block from Kingsley Eguakun to the end zone. Rookie receiver Dominic Lovett had the big play of the drive, making a nice toe-tap on a 20-yard catch on the sideline after someone on the offensive line was flagged for holding.
In the short-field situations from the 20, Goff threw a touchdown pass to St. Brown on the fourth play against the first-team defense, but the first-team offense had to settle for a short field goal against the second unit. Allan George had a pass breakup on third-and-3 in the end zone, but Montgomery converted a short run on the next play to keep the drive alive. Miller also had a PBU on the drive.
Finishing Up
The Lions closed practice with two end-of-game situations.
The mostly first-team defense – with Hutchinson, Keith Cooper and Al-Quadin Muhammad playing on the line and Ya-Sin and Hallett at safety – forced a four-and-out on the first possession, which started first-and-10 on the 49, with the offense down, 24-21, and 54 seconds on the clock.
Hallett, who's made a strong push for a roster spot in the past week, flew up from his deep safety spot to deflect a pass to St. Brown on first down and Reed nearly came up with a great pick on second-and-10, when he slipped covering St. Brown on an out route then sprang to his feet and deflected the ball. Goff threw high to St. Brown on fourth-and-6, when Muhammad got pressure up the middle.
Allen led the second-team offense on an 11-play touchdown drive on the last possession of practice, which started first-and-10 from the minus-42 with 1:06 on the clock and the offense trailing, 27-20. I thought coaches could have credited Nate Lynn for a sack on the first play of the period and Kennelly had a pass deflection at the line of scrimmage on a blitz on the second play, but Allen drew an offsides penalty on Myles Adams on fourth-and-2 for a free first down, converted a fourth-and-6 pass to Kennedy four plays later then capped the drive with a 4-yard touchdown to Tim Patrick in the back of the end zone.
Hooker has done some good things in practice this summer and is a perceptibly better quarterback today than he was a season ago.
His stats from the Lions' first three preseason games aren't pretty – 16-for-29 passing (55.2%) for 117 yards with no touchdowns, two interceptions and two lost fumbles – but he played well in the team's intrasquad scrimmage Tuesday and will have a chance to leave coaches with a strong impression in Saturday's exhibition finale against the Houston Texans.
On Tuesday, Hooker led the Lions' second-team offense on a short scoring drive against the first-team defense and was the only one of the team's three quarterbacks to move the ball in the first four possessions of the offense backed up inside its own 15-yard line.
Sione Vaki had two big runs on a drive that started at the minus-12-yard line to get the offense near midfield, but Hooker made a nice throw to Isaac TeSlaa a few plays later on third-and-5 from the 47 to move the offense into field-goal range. Hooker sidestepped a blitz and dropped a ball just out of reach of Tyson Russell where only TeSlaa could catch it.
In his only series against the mostly first-team defense later in practice (with possession starting at the plus-20-yard line) Hooker led a two-play drive that ended in the end zone. Ian Kennelly, who was filling in for Brian Branch on the drive, took a poor angle on a 10-yard Craig Reynolds run on the first play from scrimamge (and was replaced by Erick Hallett on the next play), then Hooker threw a touchdown pass to Jakobie Keeney-James against Amik Robertson.
Lions coach Dan Campbell said last week he trusts Kyle Allen more than Hooker for now as Jared Goff's backup, and he's right to do so. Allen has had a better camp overall and played well in last week's preseason game.
But Hooker should get the start and an extended look against the Texans and has a strong case to make the team as the No. 3 quarterback.
Here's some more news, notes and observations from Tuesday's practice:
Morice Norris is back on field, but is it too soon?
The Lions practiced outside Tuesday despite a light sprinkle that caused them to cancel the fan access that was scheduled for family and corporate partners. They have a walk-through Wednesday and a joint practice with the Texans – and the final public access of the summer – on Thursday.
I'll get more into the details of the controlled scrimmage shortly, but I have to start with Morice Norris' first appearance at practice since he was taken off the field by ambulance in the team's Aug. 8 preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Norris went through a pretty thorough workout with a Lions trainer during the team's individual and group periods. He ran in the end zone and did backpedal drills on the field, while wearing a helmet and full pads, and at one point was hunched over catching his breath in the middle of the workout. Norris remains in concussion protocol, did not practice and did not talk to reporters after practice, but after his workout was done he watched the end of practice in a black shirt and his uniform pants from the defensive sideline.
Teams have to put full trust in their medical personnel when it comes to players returning from brain injuries. We don't know all the details of Norris' situation, but I still was shocked to see him on the field Tuesday 11 days after his injury.
Norris' body was seizing after he fell lifeless to the ground as medical personnel tended to him after his injury. I thought for sure his season would be over or at least the Lions would put him on injured reserve to start the year. They still might when the roster deadline comes next week, and in my untrained opinion that's still the most prudent approach for the team to take with Norris' health.
More personnel notes
Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo took part in position drills only in his first practice back from the physically unable to perform list. Wingo suffered a torn meniscus in his knee last Thanksgiving.
Tight end Sam LaPorta was back at practice for the first time in more than a week, but did not take part in team drills. Rock Ya-Sin continued to take first-team reps at safety with Kerby Joseph out with a knee injury.
And Amon-Ra St. Brown got his right thumb taped during position drills but returned to practice, though I didn't see what happened to cause the injury.
Brian Branch looks like a star
Branch had a huge day. He had a couple would-be sacks during the scrimmage period and was as sharp as I've seen him in coverage in one-on-one route work.
Branch had an impressive pass breakup on a Jared Goff throw to St. Brown in one-on-ones, when he ran in phase with St. Brown on a route down the sideline and stuck his right hand up to deflect the ball. He blanketed Kalif Raymond on a deep pass a few plays later that fell incomplete in the end zone. As he ran past me out of bounds, he seemed to be kicking himself that the first play wasn't a pick.
The Lions started their scrimmage with five "backed-up" series with the offense in the shadow of its own end zone, then ran a couple series each from the minus-40 and plus-20 before ending with situational football.
I thought Branch had would-be sacks on two of the first three plays with the offense starting at its 40, though Dan Campbell didn't blow either play dead. Branch beat Shane Zylstra off left end on the first play of the period, which coaches marked off as a short pass to Jahmyr Gibbs, then had a sack on first-and-10 from the plus-48 when Goff double-clutched a throw under pressure.
Branch is the one starter in the Lions secondary that hasn't missed a day due to injury this summer. He should have a huge year if he stays healthy.
One-on-one winners
TeSlaa showed great concentration to make a juggling catch on a comeback route that was tipped by Avonte Maddox. Nick Whiteside and D.J. Miller had interceptions on deep balls from Allen to Tom Kennedy. And Terrion Arnold had a pass breakup on a Goff pass to Jameson Williams, when Williams tried about four moves to lose Arnold at the line of scrimmage with no success.
Who’s making plays?
In the scrimmage portion of practice, which included simulated crowd noise, the first-team offense went three-and-out on its first two "backed-up drives" before picking up two first downs on its third drive of the period. Goff threw a 22-yard pass to Williams on third-and-3 from 8, and Gibbs had a 6-yard run up the gut to move the chains again two plays later. The offense couldn't get the ball past midfield, however, as Goff threw incomplete to St. Brown on a third-and-5 play with Hutchinson bringing pressure up the middle.
The first-team offense scored its first touchdown of the scrimmage on its first drive from the 40, though would-be sacks by Branch (twice) and potentially Alex Anzalone weren't marked off. Goff completed a 22-yard pass to St. Brown on third-and-10 on the Anzalone play, and four plays later threw a touchdown to Zylstra after he slipped a block against Derrick Barnes in the right flat.
Zylstra's TD came one play after Goff threw a 12-yard pass to St. Brown on third-and-14, and the Lions decided try and convert on fourth-and-2.
Vaki scored on a short run for the second-team offense, when he bounced a carry outside and followed a good block from Kingsley Eguakun to the end zone. Rookie receiver Dominic Lovett had the big play of the drive, making a nice toe-tap on a 20-yard catch on the sideline after someone on the offensive line was flagged for holding.
In the short-field situations from the 20, Goff threw a touchdown pass to St. Brown on the fourth play against the first-team defense, but the first-team offense had to settle for a short field goal against the second unit. Allan George had a pass breakup on third-and-3 in the end zone, but Montgomery converted a short run on the next play to keep the drive alive. Miller also had a PBU on the drive.
Finishing Up
The Lions closed practice with two end-of-game situations.
The mostly first-team defense – with Hutchinson, Keith Cooper and Al-Quadin Muhammad playing on the line and Ya-Sin and Hallett at safety – forced a four-and-out on the first possession, which started first-and-10 on the 49, with the offense down, 24-21, and 54 seconds on the clock.
Hallett, who's made a strong push for a roster spot in the past week, flew up from his deep safety spot to deflect a pass to St. Brown on first down and Reed nearly came up with a great pick on second-and-10, when he slipped covering St. Brown on an out route then sprang to his feet and deflected the ball. Goff threw high to St. Brown on fourth-and-6, when Muhammad got pressure up the middle.
Allen led the second-team offense on an 11-play touchdown drive on the last possession of practice, which started first-and-10 from the minus-42 with 1:06 on the clock and the offense trailing, 27-20. I thought coaches could have credited Nate Lynn for a sack on the first play of the period and Kennelly had a pass deflection at the line of scrimmage on a blitz on the second play, but Allen drew an offsides penalty on Myles Adams on fourth-and-2 for a free first down, converted a fourth-and-6 pass to Kennedy four plays later then capped the drive with a 4-yard touchdown to Tim Patrick in the back of the end zone.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Confident he belongs, undrafted rookie Ian Kennelly knocking on door of making Lions' roster
Allen Park — There were 18 safeties selected in the 2025 NFL draft. Ian Kennelly wasn’t among them. And while we’re not privy to the thinking of the league’s 32 general managers, there’s a strong likelihood none strongly considered taking him.
To add perspective to Kennelly’s prospect stock, Dane Brugler’s popular draft guide, “The Beast,” ranked the former Grand Valley State standout the 59th best at his position.
There’s this motto in the league’s scouting circles that if you have NFL-caliber talent, they’ll find you. However, Kennelly was largely overlooked, just like he was as a high school recruit.
Yes, caliber of competition matters, but we’re talking about a two-time first-team All-Conference performer, a perennial playoff program’s Player of the Year in 2024, possessing physical traits that just as well have been designed in a lab.
What NFL team wouldn't want a 6-foot-2, 210-pound safety with elite speed — Kennelly ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash ahead of the draft — change-of-direction quickness and leaping ability for his position?
Beats me. Two shoulder injuries that were recently reported by the Detroit Free Press, including a more recent one that threatened to derail his NFL dream before it began, were likely a factor.
Regardless, Kennelly, a Utica Eisenhower grad, walked into the Lions' local pro day in early April and quickly grabbed the attention of several members of the organization, including assistant general manager Ray Agnew, special teams coordinator Dave Fipp and defensive assistant Jim O’Neil, who works with the team’s safeties.
"I didn't know anything about the kid. At all,” O’Neil said earlier this offseason. “He came to local day, and he crushed it. Not just the DB coaches observed it, (but) Fipp ended up gravitating over, Dan (Campbell) ended up gravitating over. It's like, 'Who is this kid?'
“And then we went back and we watched some of the tape, and some of the stuff we saw at the local day was showing up,” O’Neil continued. “Physical, could run, could obviously track the ball.”
Once the draft ended, the Lions happily snatched Kennelly up as an undrafted free agent. The way the organization approaches young talent is they’re typically granted a full offseason to figure it out. Everyone understood there would be an acclimation period, but worst-case, it doesn’t click, and they move on with nothing gained and nothing lost.
However, a few months into this thing, it appears the Lions have stumbled into something with the Metro Detroit native. After dealing with a minor hamstring strain early in training camp, Kennelly has started the team’s last two preseason games and played a heavy workload on both defense and special teams.
And with the depth chart depleted by injury the past week, Kennelly has gotten the call to log some first-team reps, ahead of a couple returning talents in Loren Strickland and Erick Hallett.
Reading between the lines, Kennelly appears to be tracking toward one of Detroit’s final roster spots when they trim to 53 players in less than a week. At the bare minimum, he's a lock for the practice squad.
Kennelly has been a popular target for media interviews this camp. Everyone loves the story of the local kid growing up to play for the hometown team. The Lions roster a bunch of guys who fit the mold, including Aidan Hutchinson and rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa.
Kennelly has taken the added attention in stride. He considers the fact that anyone is taking an interest in his story a blessing. The other blessing with being local is that his family and friends have had a front row seat to share in his experience, with supporters in the crowd every day camp has been open to the public, at least until the weather closed those doors on Tuesday.
“It's kind of awesome,” Kennelly said. ”Their support means so much to me, and, honestly, I do it for them.”
As for the massive jump in competition, Kennelly never got hung up on his need to acclimate. Instead, he prefers to remind himself he deserves to be here.
“I'm never going to feel like I don't belong in a group, especially out here,” he said. “This is what I've been doing since I was eight years old, so I know I can play.”
That doesn’t mean there haven’t been adjustments. In particular, the length and physicality of Detroit’s practices have pushed him in ways he’s never experienced playing football. Plus, there’s always something new to learn. Right as he feels he has a grasp on some part of the scheme, or a fundamental technique the coaches want him to play with, the target moves.
As a rookie, Kennelly said he’s spending a lot more time listening than talking, absorbing every morsel of knowledge he can from the team’s veterans, a group that’s led by the stellar starting tandem of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.
“I’ve got to keep improving and honing in on the details,” Kennelly said. “It's a fast-moving game, you know, a lot of motions. The safety is the one that's got to adjust, a lot of the time. When I'm a half-step behind, because I'm thinking too much out there and processing what's going on, those are just the things I need to clean up. It's going to come with time in reps.
"…Yeah, I'm proud of where I'm at and how far I've come this far. But, you know, for me, I'm just taking a day at a time right now."
There's no question, Kennelly took the road less traveled to get to the NFL. And in the world with the transfer portal, where talented players with a hint they could reach the league with more exposure, he chose familiarity and loyalty. He saw teammates take the other side of the fork, deciding that uncertainty wasn't for him.
“That's just kind of the way my story went,” Kennelly said. “I'm happy about it. I had a great experience at Grand Valley. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
"Now, it's just that chip on my shoulder that I carry with me, because I do feel like I could have played at that next level. Obviously, I'm here now, so it all worked out the way it's supposed to."
To add perspective to Kennelly’s prospect stock, Dane Brugler’s popular draft guide, “The Beast,” ranked the former Grand Valley State standout the 59th best at his position.
There’s this motto in the league’s scouting circles that if you have NFL-caliber talent, they’ll find you. However, Kennelly was largely overlooked, just like he was as a high school recruit.
Yes, caliber of competition matters, but we’re talking about a two-time first-team All-Conference performer, a perennial playoff program’s Player of the Year in 2024, possessing physical traits that just as well have been designed in a lab.
What NFL team wouldn't want a 6-foot-2, 210-pound safety with elite speed — Kennelly ran a 4.52-second 40-yard dash ahead of the draft — change-of-direction quickness and leaping ability for his position?
Beats me. Two shoulder injuries that were recently reported by the Detroit Free Press, including a more recent one that threatened to derail his NFL dream before it began, were likely a factor.
Regardless, Kennelly, a Utica Eisenhower grad, walked into the Lions' local pro day in early April and quickly grabbed the attention of several members of the organization, including assistant general manager Ray Agnew, special teams coordinator Dave Fipp and defensive assistant Jim O’Neil, who works with the team’s safeties.
"I didn't know anything about the kid. At all,” O’Neil said earlier this offseason. “He came to local day, and he crushed it. Not just the DB coaches observed it, (but) Fipp ended up gravitating over, Dan (Campbell) ended up gravitating over. It's like, 'Who is this kid?'
“And then we went back and we watched some of the tape, and some of the stuff we saw at the local day was showing up,” O’Neil continued. “Physical, could run, could obviously track the ball.”
Once the draft ended, the Lions happily snatched Kennelly up as an undrafted free agent. The way the organization approaches young talent is they’re typically granted a full offseason to figure it out. Everyone understood there would be an acclimation period, but worst-case, it doesn’t click, and they move on with nothing gained and nothing lost.
However, a few months into this thing, it appears the Lions have stumbled into something with the Metro Detroit native. After dealing with a minor hamstring strain early in training camp, Kennelly has started the team’s last two preseason games and played a heavy workload on both defense and special teams.
And with the depth chart depleted by injury the past week, Kennelly has gotten the call to log some first-team reps, ahead of a couple returning talents in Loren Strickland and Erick Hallett.
Reading between the lines, Kennelly appears to be tracking toward one of Detroit’s final roster spots when they trim to 53 players in less than a week. At the bare minimum, he's a lock for the practice squad.
Kennelly has been a popular target for media interviews this camp. Everyone loves the story of the local kid growing up to play for the hometown team. The Lions roster a bunch of guys who fit the mold, including Aidan Hutchinson and rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa.
Kennelly has taken the added attention in stride. He considers the fact that anyone is taking an interest in his story a blessing. The other blessing with being local is that his family and friends have had a front row seat to share in his experience, with supporters in the crowd every day camp has been open to the public, at least until the weather closed those doors on Tuesday.
“It's kind of awesome,” Kennelly said. ”Their support means so much to me, and, honestly, I do it for them.”
As for the massive jump in competition, Kennelly never got hung up on his need to acclimate. Instead, he prefers to remind himself he deserves to be here.
“I'm never going to feel like I don't belong in a group, especially out here,” he said. “This is what I've been doing since I was eight years old, so I know I can play.”
That doesn’t mean there haven’t been adjustments. In particular, the length and physicality of Detroit’s practices have pushed him in ways he’s never experienced playing football. Plus, there’s always something new to learn. Right as he feels he has a grasp on some part of the scheme, or a fundamental technique the coaches want him to play with, the target moves.
As a rookie, Kennelly said he’s spending a lot more time listening than talking, absorbing every morsel of knowledge he can from the team’s veterans, a group that’s led by the stellar starting tandem of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch.
“I’ve got to keep improving and honing in on the details,” Kennelly said. “It's a fast-moving game, you know, a lot of motions. The safety is the one that's got to adjust, a lot of the time. When I'm a half-step behind, because I'm thinking too much out there and processing what's going on, those are just the things I need to clean up. It's going to come with time in reps.
"…Yeah, I'm proud of where I'm at and how far I've come this far. But, you know, for me, I'm just taking a day at a time right now."
There's no question, Kennelly took the road less traveled to get to the NFL. And in the world with the transfer portal, where talented players with a hint they could reach the league with more exposure, he chose familiarity and loyalty. He saw teammates take the other side of the fork, deciding that uncertainty wasn't for him.
“That's just kind of the way my story went,” Kennelly said. “I'm happy about it. I had a great experience at Grand Valley. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
"Now, it's just that chip on my shoulder that I carry with me, because I do feel like I could have played at that next level. Obviously, I'm here now, so it all worked out the way it's supposed to."
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
Is there a 5th year team option for 27?
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
2nd round picks don't have a 5th year option.
Da Guru
Fair & Balanced
Allen has been in the NFL and started games and after the X season Lions know what he is and what he can do.
Lions should tell Hooker he is playing the whole game no matter what, so go out there and perform without worrying about making a mistake and see what happens. They need to get an extended look, not a quarter here and there. Hooker has ability, just needs to show it during a game. If he gets a whole game and does nothing, then the decision is easier.
Holmes is not going to give up on his earlier picks that easy including Broderic Martin. Martin also needs to play the whole game as it is crunch time for both of them.
Lions should tell Hooker he is playing the whole game no matter what, so go out there and perform without worrying about making a mistake and see what happens. They need to get an extended look, not a quarter here and there. Hooker has ability, just needs to show it during a game. If he gets a whole game and does nothing, then the decision is easier.
Holmes is not going to give up on his earlier picks that easy including Broderic Martin. Martin also needs to play the whole game as it is crunch time for both of them.
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BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Assessing Lions' roster entering offseason's home stretch: Locks, near-locks and odds for talent on the bubble
Allen Park — We’re days away from the Detroit Lions establishing the team’s initial 53-man roster. This is the stretch run of the offseason, with one joint practice and the preseason finale against the Houston Texans to round out the evaluations.
With no media access on Wednesday, let’s take aim at where the roster stands, starting with who we view as the roster locks.
Now the near-locks. These are guys I’m not willing to slap the 100% label on, but they’re not far off. If any were left off the initial roster, I’d be surprised.
Offense: QB Kyle Allen, WR Tim Patrick, OT Dan Skipper
Defense: DT Pat O’Connor, LB Trevor Nowaske, CB Khalil Dorsey
There are also a handful of injured players who make the above lists if healthy. That includes the obvious, like defensive tackle Alim McNeill and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez. Also in this group are the unknowns, led by defensive lineman Josh Paschal and rookie Ahmed Hassanein.
Paschal has been on the non-football injury all training camp, with the latest intel being that he’ll be ready to practice in September. Does that mean he stays on NFI the first four weeks of the season? We can’t say for certain.
As for Hassanein, he suffered a pec injury in last weekend’s preseason game against the Dolphins. He posted on social media that he won't require surgery, only “time to heal.” Still, there’s a reasonable chance he starts the season on injured reserve. The team has the right to put two players on that list during cutdown day without them counting toward the 53-man roster. Hassanein feels like a strong candidate.
Not counting the injured players, that’s 43 locks or near locks. That leaves 10 spots up for grabs. Below are the candidates for those jobs, and our assessment of each of them earning one.
Quarterback Hendon Hooker
Hooker’s clear improvements on the practice field haven’t translated to the preseason games, where he’s posted a dismal 36.1 passer rating and lost two fumbles. Allen has essentially won the backup job, with Hooker’s chances of sticking hinging on whether Detroit wants to carry three quarterbacks to continue the former third-round pick’s development.
Roster odds: 55%
Wide receiver Tim Patrick
Yes, we put Patrick in the near-lock category above. Still, allow me to explain the thought process.
Patrick was a key piece last season, coming in after camp and solving the team’s need for a third receiver. Returning from two devastating leg injuries, the big and physical pass-catcher hauled in 33 of 44 targets and was a solid blocker on the perimeter. That earned him a new contract this offseason, which included $2.5 million in guarantees and the chance to earn another $1.5 million in incentives.
However, Patrick has struggled to pick up where he’s left off, while TeSlaa has acclimated far more quickly than imagined. It’s just enough to cast some doubt on the veteran’s job security.
Roster odds: 85%
Wide receiver Dominic Lovett
A seventh-round draft pick, Lovett has been predictably up and down during his inaugural NFL offseason. He’s caught seven of 12 targets for 45 yards, dropped a pass, lost his footing on another route, blocked surprisingly well, contributed on multiple special teams, and drawn a penalty working with those units. The upside and long-term vision as Raymond's replacement should be enough to result in a job.
Roster odds: 70%
Wide receiver Jackson Meeks
Undrafted out of Syracuse, via Georgia, Meeks has made a stellar first impression. He’s a traditional X receiver who is a physical blocker and comfortable in contested-catch situations. He also contributes to multiple special teams, which is a major plus at his position.
His production in the preseason has been impressive. Meeks has 10 catches for 171 yards and two touchdowns in the past two games. That tape could make it difficult to sneak him through waivers and onto the practice squad.
Roster odds: 40%
Tight end Shane Zylstra
If the Lions plan on carrying a third tight end, which feels likely, Zylstra has held the lead in the race from the start of the offseason program to now. The former college receiver demonstrates savviness as a pass-catcher and has steadily improved as a blocker and special teams contributor.
Roster odds: 80%
Tight end Zach Horton
Horton has been a pleasant surprise as an undrafted free agent. He is a good blocker from a variety of alignments, including out of the backfield as an H-back or fullback in the I-formation. His size (6-foot-4, 252 pounds) and understated athleticism as a pass-catching option remind me of Wright when he arrived as an undrafted rookie in 2021.
Horton is probably headed to the practice squad, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him stick around beyond this season.
Roster odds: 15%
Guard Kayode Awosika
Plucked off Philadelphia’s practice squad in the first month of the 2022 season, Awosika has started seven games for the Lions the past three seasons. Yes, he got jumped by Mahogany on the depth chart in the middle of the 2024 season. Still, Awosika continues to be a trusted and valued backup who has regularly seen first-team reps in camp when a starter is hurt or resting.
Roster odds: 80%
Guard Netane Muti
Muti was in the mix for a roster spot last season before suffering a torn pec. He stuck around Detroit for his rehab and signed a futures deal after the season. This camp, he has primarily worked with the second-team offense at both right and left guard.
He’s been OK in the preseason, but has been clearly behind Awosika in the pecking order. If the Lions only keep one of the two, I imagine Muti is the odd man out.
Roster odds: 25%
Offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun
The trickle down of Frank Ragnow’s retirement has improved the roster chances of Eguakun after he spent his rookie season on Detroit's practice squad.
The former Florida Gator is an elite athlete at the position. However, he can struggle anchoring against bigger, stronger defensive tackles. Still, with Ratledge seeing less and less time at center as the offseason progressed, it’s reasonable to believe the Lions will keep a reserve who has experience at the position. With veteran Trystan Colon nursing an elbow injury, Eguakun has solidified his case as the best option.
Roster odds: 65%
Offensive lineman Michael Niese
You might have forgotten, but Niese made the roster out of camp last year and was active all 17 games. He did see a little action on offense, but was primarily involved on special teams. He’s remained in the mix for the backup center job this year, but has been repping behind Eguakun in recent weeks.
Roster odds: 20%
Offensive tackle Jamarco Jones
If the Lions had to decide between playing Jones or Manu in a regular-season game, I think they’d still choose the veteran over the still-developing Tongan-Canadian. Regardless, I don’t think the team can justify a fifth offensive tackle on the roster. So, like last season, the Lions will probably roll with Skipper as the swing backup, Manu as a healthy game-day scratch, and will hope to keep Jones around on the practice squad in case of emergency.
Roster odds: 15%
With no media access on Wednesday, let’s take aim at where the roster stands, starting with who we view as the roster locks.
Offense
QB Jared Goff, RB Jahmyr Gibbs, RB David Montgomery, RB Craig Reynolds, RB Sione Vaki, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR Jameson Williams, WR Isaac TeSlaa, WR Kalif Raymond, TE Sam LaPorta, TE Brock Wright, OT Penei Sewell, OT Taylor Decker, OT Giovanni Manu, G Christian Mahogany, OL Graham Glasgow, OL Tate RatlegeDefense
Edge Aidan Hutchinson, Edge Marcus Davenport, Edge Al-Quadin Muhammad, DT DJ Reader, DT Tyleik Williams, DT Roy Lopez, LB Alex Anzalone, LB Jack Campbell, LB Derrick Barnes, LB Grant Stuard, CB Terrion Arnold, CB DJ Reed, CB Amik Robertson, DB Avonte Maddox, DB Rock Ya-Sin, S Kerby Joseph, S Brian BranchSpecialists
P Jack Fox, K Jake Bates, LS Hogan HattenNow the near-locks. These are guys I’m not willing to slap the 100% label on, but they’re not far off. If any were left off the initial roster, I’d be surprised.
Offense: QB Kyle Allen, WR Tim Patrick, OT Dan Skipper
Defense: DT Pat O’Connor, LB Trevor Nowaske, CB Khalil Dorsey
There are also a handful of injured players who make the above lists if healthy. That includes the obvious, like defensive tackle Alim McNeill and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez. Also in this group are the unknowns, led by defensive lineman Josh Paschal and rookie Ahmed Hassanein.
Paschal has been on the non-football injury all training camp, with the latest intel being that he’ll be ready to practice in September. Does that mean he stays on NFI the first four weeks of the season? We can’t say for certain.
As for Hassanein, he suffered a pec injury in last weekend’s preseason game against the Dolphins. He posted on social media that he won't require surgery, only “time to heal.” Still, there’s a reasonable chance he starts the season on injured reserve. The team has the right to put two players on that list during cutdown day without them counting toward the 53-man roster. Hassanein feels like a strong candidate.
Not counting the injured players, that’s 43 locks or near locks. That leaves 10 spots up for grabs. Below are the candidates for those jobs, and our assessment of each of them earning one.
Quarterback Hendon Hooker
Hooker’s clear improvements on the practice field haven’t translated to the preseason games, where he’s posted a dismal 36.1 passer rating and lost two fumbles. Allen has essentially won the backup job, with Hooker’s chances of sticking hinging on whether Detroit wants to carry three quarterbacks to continue the former third-round pick’s development.
Roster odds: 55%
Wide receiver Tim Patrick
Yes, we put Patrick in the near-lock category above. Still, allow me to explain the thought process.
Patrick was a key piece last season, coming in after camp and solving the team’s need for a third receiver. Returning from two devastating leg injuries, the big and physical pass-catcher hauled in 33 of 44 targets and was a solid blocker on the perimeter. That earned him a new contract this offseason, which included $2.5 million in guarantees and the chance to earn another $1.5 million in incentives.
However, Patrick has struggled to pick up where he’s left off, while TeSlaa has acclimated far more quickly than imagined. It’s just enough to cast some doubt on the veteran’s job security.
Roster odds: 85%
Wide receiver Dominic Lovett
A seventh-round draft pick, Lovett has been predictably up and down during his inaugural NFL offseason. He’s caught seven of 12 targets for 45 yards, dropped a pass, lost his footing on another route, blocked surprisingly well, contributed on multiple special teams, and drawn a penalty working with those units. The upside and long-term vision as Raymond's replacement should be enough to result in a job.
Roster odds: 70%
Wide receiver Jackson Meeks
Undrafted out of Syracuse, via Georgia, Meeks has made a stellar first impression. He’s a traditional X receiver who is a physical blocker and comfortable in contested-catch situations. He also contributes to multiple special teams, which is a major plus at his position.
His production in the preseason has been impressive. Meeks has 10 catches for 171 yards and two touchdowns in the past two games. That tape could make it difficult to sneak him through waivers and onto the practice squad.
Roster odds: 40%
Tight end Shane Zylstra
If the Lions plan on carrying a third tight end, which feels likely, Zylstra has held the lead in the race from the start of the offseason program to now. The former college receiver demonstrates savviness as a pass-catcher and has steadily improved as a blocker and special teams contributor.
Roster odds: 80%
Tight end Zach Horton
Horton has been a pleasant surprise as an undrafted free agent. He is a good blocker from a variety of alignments, including out of the backfield as an H-back or fullback in the I-formation. His size (6-foot-4, 252 pounds) and understated athleticism as a pass-catching option remind me of Wright when he arrived as an undrafted rookie in 2021.
Horton is probably headed to the practice squad, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him stick around beyond this season.
Roster odds: 15%
Guard Kayode Awosika
Plucked off Philadelphia’s practice squad in the first month of the 2022 season, Awosika has started seven games for the Lions the past three seasons. Yes, he got jumped by Mahogany on the depth chart in the middle of the 2024 season. Still, Awosika continues to be a trusted and valued backup who has regularly seen first-team reps in camp when a starter is hurt or resting.
Roster odds: 80%
Guard Netane Muti
Muti was in the mix for a roster spot last season before suffering a torn pec. He stuck around Detroit for his rehab and signed a futures deal after the season. This camp, he has primarily worked with the second-team offense at both right and left guard.
He’s been OK in the preseason, but has been clearly behind Awosika in the pecking order. If the Lions only keep one of the two, I imagine Muti is the odd man out.
Roster odds: 25%
Offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun
The trickle down of Frank Ragnow’s retirement has improved the roster chances of Eguakun after he spent his rookie season on Detroit's practice squad.
The former Florida Gator is an elite athlete at the position. However, he can struggle anchoring against bigger, stronger defensive tackles. Still, with Ratledge seeing less and less time at center as the offseason progressed, it’s reasonable to believe the Lions will keep a reserve who has experience at the position. With veteran Trystan Colon nursing an elbow injury, Eguakun has solidified his case as the best option.
Roster odds: 65%
Offensive lineman Michael Niese
You might have forgotten, but Niese made the roster out of camp last year and was active all 17 games. He did see a little action on offense, but was primarily involved on special teams. He’s remained in the mix for the backup center job this year, but has been repping behind Eguakun in recent weeks.
Roster odds: 20%
Offensive tackle Jamarco Jones
If the Lions had to decide between playing Jones or Manu in a regular-season game, I think they’d still choose the veteran over the still-developing Tongan-Canadian. Regardless, I don’t think the team can justify a fifth offensive tackle on the roster. So, like last season, the Lions will probably roll with Skipper as the swing backup, Manu as a healthy game-day scratch, and will hope to keep Jones around on the practice squad in case of emergency.
Roster odds: 15%
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Edge Nate Lynn
The 6-foot-3, 252-pound Lynn has had a nice camp, flashing his pass-rush potential, particularly his ability to bend an edge. That resulted in seven pressures and a sack in the first two preseason games. There have also been improvements as a run defender. His roster chances, like the other young edge rushers, partially hinge on whether the team adds a veteran late, namely a reunion with Za’Darius Smith.
Roster odds: 35%
Edge Isaac Ukwu
In the world of what have you done for me lately, Ukwu is surging. He was a pass-rushing force in the preseason game against Miami, recording two sacks, even if one was wiped out by a penalty away from the ball.
Ukwu rushes with the pocket-crushing style the Lions like, with a long arm move that can give offensive tackles problems. If there’s an area he needs to shore up, it’s his edge-setting against the run. He should be more effective than he is at 270 pounds.
Roster odds: 45%
Edge Mitchell Agude
In a three-horse race with Lynn and Ukwu, Agude has fallen behind the other two contenders. That’s shown up on both the practice field and preseason games, where he’s recorded just two tackles and zero QB pressures in 52 snaps.
Roster odds: 10%
Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo
It’s admittedly a little difficult to get a read on Wingo, who was finally activated off the physically unable to perform list on Tuesday. The Lions clearly like last year’s sixth-round pick, but the rookie campaign was nondescript prior to the season-ending injury.
Wingo is probably destined for a roster spot, even if some of the other defensive tackle options on the bubble have been performing well as of late.
Roster odds: 80%
Defensive lineman Keith Cooper
One of the pleasant surprises of the offseason, the undrafted Cooper had to initially earn a spot on the offseason roster through a tryout at rookie minicamp. Regardless, for the past few weeks, he’s been regularly sprinkled in with the first-team defense, showing some ability as both a run defender and pass rusher, with inside-out versatility.
Cooper has unquestionably benefited from Paschal being sidelined. The two have similar body types and playing styles.
Roster odds: 65%
Defensive tackle Myles Adams
One of last year’s late-season injury reinforcements, Adams blended into the background early in camp. However, in recent weeks, he’s picked up steam, standing out in both one-on-one and full-team work. It’s likely not enough to propel him past more trusted options on the depth chart, but he can be a solid piece on the practice squad if he’s not claimed off waivers by another team.
Roster odds: 20%
Defensive tackle Chris Smith
Smith and Adams’ camps have been similar, although Smith repped higher on the depth chart to begin camp. The local product who played collegiately at Harvard and Notre Dame has been far more disruptive in recent weeks after a quiet start.
Roster odds: 35%
Defensive tackle Brodric Martin
Everyone understood the deal with Martin. The third-year defensive tackle had to prove himself this offseason or pack his bags. The early returns were uninspiring.
Working with the third-team defense, he still struggled to make plays on the practice field. Yet, in the past two preseason games, he’s stood out in limited reps, particularly with an explosive first step that wasn’t an expected part of his skill set.
It’s probably too little too late. Still, I could see the Lions content to bring him back to the practice squad and continue his development if another team isn’t enamored with the behemoth’s untapped potential.
Roster odds: 20%
Linebacker Zach Cunningham
Cunningham probably deserves to be in the near-lock category. That said, I’ve mentioned elsewhere that the Lions could look to initially manipulate the roster with the veteran to avoid guaranteeing his salary.
Once the NFL’s leading tackler, Cunningham is still strong against the run. The coverage skills don’t hold up as well, but he’s solid depth, capable of contributing on multiple special teams groups.
Roster odds: 85%
Linebacker Anthony Pittman
This regime doesn’t love Pittman quite the same way previous leadership did. They let him walk as a free agent last year, only bringing him back when the depth chart was ravaged by injury.
The special teams contributions are great, but five missed tackles in three preseason games aren't helping his case.
Roster odds: 15%
Linebacker Ezekiel Turner
Turner is an elite special teamer, but he’s seventh, at best, on the linebacker depth chart, behind the starters and Stuard as a weakside option. Turner is a sound tackler, racking them up in bunches in the preseason. If he were more reliable in coverage, I could see the team finding room for the former safety as a subpackage specialist.
Roster odds: 25%
Defensive back Erick Hallett
Hallett wasn’t on my radar coming into camp. I viewed him as a long shot for the final safety job, where he was expected to compete. Instead, he’s showcased impressive versatility, repping at safety, nickel and corner, making plays at each spot.
He’s coming off his best game, an all-around showing against Miami, and Hallett nearly picked off Jared Goff in Tuesday’s practice. The arrow is definitely pointing up.
Roster odds: 75%
Cornerback Nick Whiteside
A mid-camp addition after playing in the UFL last season, the Michigan native quickly jumped a few spots up the depth chart with his knack for getting hands on passes in practice. The coverage hasn’t been as consistent the past week, including the Miami game. Still, it’s reasonable to think he’s played himself into a practice squad job.
Roster odds: 15%
Safety Loren Strickland
After rookie Dan Jackson went down with a season-ending injury, I believed Strickland was the next man up. As an undrafted rookie a year ago, he was one of the biggest surprises to make the roster. Plus, he got the start in the Hall of Fame game. However, the versatile special teamer hasn’t been able to distinguish himself in pursuit of the job.
Roster odds: 35%
Safety Morice Norris
Norris, one of the hardest-hitters on the team, suffered a brutal concussion in the team’s second preseason game. His energy and aggressiveness fit the roster, but coach Dan Campbell was looking for more assignment-sound play from the second-year defender before the injury. Once Norris clears protocol, he will be a good addition to the practice squad.
Roster odds: 10%
Safety Ian Kennelly
The ultra-athletic, big-framed undrafted rookie has steadily improved during his first offseason. He’s still understandably prone to some miscues because of the information overload that comes with making the jump from D-II Grand Valley State to the NFL. Still, the Lions clearly like what they’ve seen, slotting into some first-team reps this week with the safety depth depleted by injury. The upside is there, including on special teams, where he’d be looked at to contribute immediately.
Roster odds: 60%
The 6-foot-3, 252-pound Lynn has had a nice camp, flashing his pass-rush potential, particularly his ability to bend an edge. That resulted in seven pressures and a sack in the first two preseason games. There have also been improvements as a run defender. His roster chances, like the other young edge rushers, partially hinge on whether the team adds a veteran late, namely a reunion with Za’Darius Smith.
Roster odds: 35%
Edge Isaac Ukwu
In the world of what have you done for me lately, Ukwu is surging. He was a pass-rushing force in the preseason game against Miami, recording two sacks, even if one was wiped out by a penalty away from the ball.
Ukwu rushes with the pocket-crushing style the Lions like, with a long arm move that can give offensive tackles problems. If there’s an area he needs to shore up, it’s his edge-setting against the run. He should be more effective than he is at 270 pounds.
Roster odds: 45%
Edge Mitchell Agude
In a three-horse race with Lynn and Ukwu, Agude has fallen behind the other two contenders. That’s shown up on both the practice field and preseason games, where he’s recorded just two tackles and zero QB pressures in 52 snaps.
Roster odds: 10%
Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo
It’s admittedly a little difficult to get a read on Wingo, who was finally activated off the physically unable to perform list on Tuesday. The Lions clearly like last year’s sixth-round pick, but the rookie campaign was nondescript prior to the season-ending injury.
Wingo is probably destined for a roster spot, even if some of the other defensive tackle options on the bubble have been performing well as of late.
Roster odds: 80%
Defensive lineman Keith Cooper
One of the pleasant surprises of the offseason, the undrafted Cooper had to initially earn a spot on the offseason roster through a tryout at rookie minicamp. Regardless, for the past few weeks, he’s been regularly sprinkled in with the first-team defense, showing some ability as both a run defender and pass rusher, with inside-out versatility.
Cooper has unquestionably benefited from Paschal being sidelined. The two have similar body types and playing styles.
Roster odds: 65%
Defensive tackle Myles Adams
One of last year’s late-season injury reinforcements, Adams blended into the background early in camp. However, in recent weeks, he’s picked up steam, standing out in both one-on-one and full-team work. It’s likely not enough to propel him past more trusted options on the depth chart, but he can be a solid piece on the practice squad if he’s not claimed off waivers by another team.
Roster odds: 20%
Defensive tackle Chris Smith
Smith and Adams’ camps have been similar, although Smith repped higher on the depth chart to begin camp. The local product who played collegiately at Harvard and Notre Dame has been far more disruptive in recent weeks after a quiet start.
Roster odds: 35%
Defensive tackle Brodric Martin
Everyone understood the deal with Martin. The third-year defensive tackle had to prove himself this offseason or pack his bags. The early returns were uninspiring.
Working with the third-team defense, he still struggled to make plays on the practice field. Yet, in the past two preseason games, he’s stood out in limited reps, particularly with an explosive first step that wasn’t an expected part of his skill set.
It’s probably too little too late. Still, I could see the Lions content to bring him back to the practice squad and continue his development if another team isn’t enamored with the behemoth’s untapped potential.
Roster odds: 20%
Linebacker Zach Cunningham
Cunningham probably deserves to be in the near-lock category. That said, I’ve mentioned elsewhere that the Lions could look to initially manipulate the roster with the veteran to avoid guaranteeing his salary.
Once the NFL’s leading tackler, Cunningham is still strong against the run. The coverage skills don’t hold up as well, but he’s solid depth, capable of contributing on multiple special teams groups.
Roster odds: 85%
Linebacker Anthony Pittman
This regime doesn’t love Pittman quite the same way previous leadership did. They let him walk as a free agent last year, only bringing him back when the depth chart was ravaged by injury.
The special teams contributions are great, but five missed tackles in three preseason games aren't helping his case.
Roster odds: 15%
Linebacker Ezekiel Turner
Turner is an elite special teamer, but he’s seventh, at best, on the linebacker depth chart, behind the starters and Stuard as a weakside option. Turner is a sound tackler, racking them up in bunches in the preseason. If he were more reliable in coverage, I could see the team finding room for the former safety as a subpackage specialist.
Roster odds: 25%
Defensive back Erick Hallett
Hallett wasn’t on my radar coming into camp. I viewed him as a long shot for the final safety job, where he was expected to compete. Instead, he’s showcased impressive versatility, repping at safety, nickel and corner, making plays at each spot.
He’s coming off his best game, an all-around showing against Miami, and Hallett nearly picked off Jared Goff in Tuesday’s practice. The arrow is definitely pointing up.
Roster odds: 75%
Cornerback Nick Whiteside
A mid-camp addition after playing in the UFL last season, the Michigan native quickly jumped a few spots up the depth chart with his knack for getting hands on passes in practice. The coverage hasn’t been as consistent the past week, including the Miami game. Still, it’s reasonable to think he’s played himself into a practice squad job.
Roster odds: 15%
Safety Loren Strickland
After rookie Dan Jackson went down with a season-ending injury, I believed Strickland was the next man up. As an undrafted rookie a year ago, he was one of the biggest surprises to make the roster. Plus, he got the start in the Hall of Fame game. However, the versatile special teamer hasn’t been able to distinguish himself in pursuit of the job.
Roster odds: 35%
Safety Morice Norris
Norris, one of the hardest-hitters on the team, suffered a brutal concussion in the team’s second preseason game. His energy and aggressiveness fit the roster, but coach Dan Campbell was looking for more assignment-sound play from the second-year defender before the injury. Once Norris clears protocol, he will be a good addition to the practice squad.
Roster odds: 10%
Safety Ian Kennelly
The ultra-athletic, big-framed undrafted rookie has steadily improved during his first offseason. He’s still understandably prone to some miscues because of the information overload that comes with making the jump from D-II Grand Valley State to the NFL. Still, the Lions clearly like what they’ve seen, slotting into some first-team reps this week with the safety depth depleted by injury. The upside is there, including on special teams, where he’d be looked at to contribute immediately.
Roster odds: 60%
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Unlikely cut I would like to see: Tim Patrick.
Great story coming back after 2 years lost to injuries, was solid last year, but I don't see any upside. We're beyond needing reliable security blankets. TeSlaa is ready for the WR3 role and I'd rather roll with Kalif and the three rookies behind ARSB & Jamo. Meeks has good size, they could platoon him with Isaac. Raymond and Lovett will be mostly core STers but either one is decent deep threat.
Everyone is ready move on: Brodric Martin
Had some moments in the PS games but just didn't stack enough days, there are better options than letting him clog up a roster spot for another year.
Not everyone is ready to move on: Hendon Hooker
Personally I think it's in the teams best interest to move forward without him, but Brad is loathe to cut any Day 2 draft pick.
Guys I am rooting for to make the 53-man:
Jackson Meeks, Keith Cooper, Ian Kennelly - love seeing UDFA rookies do it the hard way, Meeks has intriguing size and Kennelly is a baller.
Great story coming back after 2 years lost to injuries, was solid last year, but I don't see any upside. We're beyond needing reliable security blankets. TeSlaa is ready for the WR3 role and I'd rather roll with Kalif and the three rookies behind ARSB & Jamo. Meeks has good size, they could platoon him with Isaac. Raymond and Lovett will be mostly core STers but either one is decent deep threat.
Everyone is ready move on: Brodric Martin
Had some moments in the PS games but just didn't stack enough days, there are better options than letting him clog up a roster spot for another year.
Not everyone is ready to move on: Hendon Hooker
Personally I think it's in the teams best interest to move forward without him, but Brad is loathe to cut any Day 2 draft pick.
Guys I am rooting for to make the 53-man:
Jackson Meeks, Keith Cooper, Ian Kennelly - love seeing UDFA rookies do it the hard way, Meeks has intriguing size and Kennelly is a baller.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
NFC North - odds to win division title
- Detroit +160
- Green Bay +250
- Minnesota +300
- Chicago +500
I know it’s a competitive division but Detroit has a + sign to win it. Seems like free $.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
BobbyLayne:
Justin - Would it be out of the question to resign Tim Patrick to the Practice Squad?
His $2.5M is fully guarenteed. As a vested veteran he is not subject to waivers. Granted, he would be free to sign with anyone.
I just think it would be a big mistake to risk losing Jackson Meeks. I know Goff is comfortable with TP but if it's a meritocracy then I don't think that there is any question that the course of TC the 3 rookie WRs have outplayed him.
Justin Rogers
Nothing is ever out of the question, but it's ignoring that he would lose all his incentives attached to his deal and I'm fairly certIn those couldn't be readded.
Justin Rogers (2 hours later)
Also, Patrick has struggled vs. Reed and Arnold. TeSlaa and Meeks have had success working against backups. It's not a fair comparison if you're doing meritocracy math. You can't tell me we're going to race, one mile, and I have to run up a 35 degree incline on rocky ground while you walk a flat, paved path. It's not a perfect analogy, but understand, TeSlaa got dominated by Arnold in a rep this week. Wasn't close.
Justin - Would it be out of the question to resign Tim Patrick to the Practice Squad?
His $2.5M is fully guarenteed. As a vested veteran he is not subject to waivers. Granted, he would be free to sign with anyone.
I just think it would be a big mistake to risk losing Jackson Meeks. I know Goff is comfortable with TP but if it's a meritocracy then I don't think that there is any question that the course of TC the 3 rookie WRs have outplayed him.
Justin Rogers
Nothing is ever out of the question, but it's ignoring that he would lose all his incentives attached to his deal and I'm fairly certIn those couldn't be readded.
Justin Rogers (2 hours later)
Also, Patrick has struggled vs. Reed and Arnold. TeSlaa and Meeks have had success working against backups. It's not a fair comparison if you're doing meritocracy math. You can't tell me we're going to race, one mile, and I have to run up a 35 degree incline on rocky ground while you walk a flat, paved path. It's not a perfect analogy, but understand, TeSlaa got dominated by Arnold in a rep this week. Wasn't close.
2Young2BBald
Footbaldguy
Flying back outta town today to a state that does not allow sports betting and won’t be back in MI until after the opener. For giggles I checked a few apps while here at DTW and was able to get The Lions +1.5 at GB. I get that it’s in Lambeau but would have guessed at minimum a pick em and not Detroit getting points. App stated 74% on the current $ in on the Lions. Wondering if the line is more a product of uncertainty about the OL or depth on D. Regardless guessing this get bet down to Lions giving points by the time the opener comes.
First few weeks are going to play a big part in how the season plays out.
Only 1 gimme in the first 10 games.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
A few interesting things from Campbell.
-- Sounds like Paschal is staying on NFI to start the season.
-- I left the press conference less convinced Wingo is a lock. Campbell said the evaluation is tough there.
-- Asked about keeping three QBs, I feel less confident about that after Campbell said the team is definitely influenced by the depth issues they had last year.
-- Campbell said he can think of three very difficult roster decisions the team is facing heading into today. No hints, but I'm sure we could narrow it down quickly.
-- In terms of trusting a player will clear waivers and make it back to the practice squad. Campbell said Holmes hasn't missed on one of those evaluations yet and he fully trusts him to make the assessment.
-- Sounds like Paschal is staying on NFI to start the season.
-- I left the press conference less convinced Wingo is a lock. Campbell said the evaluation is tough there.
-- Asked about keeping three QBs, I feel less confident about that after Campbell said the team is definitely influenced by the depth issues they had last year.
-- Campbell said he can think of three very difficult roster decisions the team is facing heading into today. No hints, but I'm sure we could narrow it down quickly.
-- In terms of trusting a player will clear waivers and make it back to the practice squad. Campbell said Holmes hasn't missed on one of those evaluations yet and he fully trusts him to make the assessment.
WRT the last point, not exactly.
- WR/PR Isaiah Williams in 2024 was one they thought they could sneak through & the Bengals pouched him.
- CB Starling Thomas V the year before, who has played 29 g and started 22 since the Cardinals got him via waiver claim.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Last joint practice of the year today, open to fans.
Kerby Joseph is practicing.
Kerby Joseph is practicing.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Kerby vacuumed up another int early in the practice, even though Aaron Rodgers is not on the Texans.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Graham Glasgow left today's joint practice and is being evaluated for a lower leg injury
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Aidan Hutchinson says he’s been “hands off in the process” of his contract extension and isn’t sure when it’ll happen.
“I think the business side can take away from your love of the game a little bit and that’s kind of the reality of the NFL,” he said.
“I think the business side can take away from your love of the game a little bit and that’s kind of the reality of the NFL,” he said.
Praying like hell that it's not serious.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
The serious business print guys just stick to the facts: “being evaluated.” Couple knuckleheads from Woodward & similar platforms Tweeted it didn’t look serious.
Means nothing, we’ve seen guys walk off under their own power end up on IR. Just asking to be burned if you speculate.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Random fan in attendance Tweeted:
I was at practice he went off to the sideline and they worked on him for a bit then he walked to the locker room under his own power, looked to be moving fine without any limp
ok thanks Doc!
I was at practice he went off to the sideline and they worked on him for a bit then he walked to the locker room under his own power, looked to be moving fine without any limp
ok thanks Doc!
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
I agree. Basically the flip side of game thread dude's "he gone for the year". And then 2 plays later you see said player running back onto the field.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
longest practice observation article of the entire TC incoming
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Lions camp observations: Texans come to town and put up fight Dolphins didn't in back-and-forth joint practice
Allen Park — Here are some notes and observations from the Detroit Lions’ Thursday morning training camp practice, a joint session with the Houston Texans.
● Let’s start with a participation report. It’s pretty clean, all things considered.
Safety Kerby Joseph (knee) and defensive tackle Brodric Martin returned to practice. More on a Joseph in a bit, but it didn’t look like there was any rust as he was worked back in.
The only three not practicing for the Lions — not including guys on the physically unable to perform or non-football injury lists — were safety Morice Norris (concussion), center Trystan Colon (elbow) and rookie defensive end Ahmed Hassanein (pec).
Norris and Colon were running off to the side, suggesting both are making good progress toward a return. Hassanein was in attendance. I caught up with him briefly, walking off the field, and he confirmed his MRI results were good and he’ll avoid surgery, but it’s too early to say how long he might be out of action.
In terms of practice injuries, running back Sione Vaki left with a trainer about halfway through the day and didn’t return, adding to his frustrating offseason.
More concerning, center Graham Glasgow suffered a lower leg injury in the late stages of practice. After being helped off the field, he eventually left the sideline and went into the facility under his own power. He was replaced in the lineup by Kingsley Eguakun.
● As with the joint practices with the Dolphins, I split fields with podcast partner Will Burchfield. I observed the Lions’ offense, while Burchfield scoped out Detroit’s defense. That means most of the defensive observations, outside of the end-of-game situational segment at the end of practice, are courtesy of Burchie.
Goff completed his first three passes, including a touchdown to Gibbs, running a Texas route. It should have been five straight completions to start, but Jameson Williams dropped a touchdown in the end zone.
Following the drop, Goff threw one of his best passes of camp, firing a laser between the cornerback and safety to St. Brown in the end zone. The Texans ended the drive with a clear win. Cornerback Derek Stingley cut in front of St. Brown at the front pylon, forcing the receiver to play defender and ensure the pass wasn’t intercepted.
Kyle Allen stepped in and immediately found Isaac TeSlaa for back-to-back touchdowns. The first was a 20-yard post, followed by a 15-yard shallow cross where the rookie showed his speed by turning the corner and jetting down the left sideline across the goal line.
Hendon Hooker kept the good times rolling with two scores on three plays, hitting Jackson Meeks along the back line on the first snap and tight end Zach Horton on a flare to the flat on the third. It was nearly a three-for-three segment for Hooker, but Dominic Lovett couldn’t get both feet in bounds on a good throw to the back of the end zone.
After a series of three short throws, quarterback C.J. Stroud found Collins on a scoring slant, beating the coverage of cornerback D.J. Reed.
Stroud gave way to backup Davis Milles, who followed a similar pattern with three short completions before connecting with rookie Jayden Higgins for a touchdown, working a curl against Khalil Dorsey.
Davis also had a scoring toss to Jaylin Noel, a fade over cornerback Allan George.
The second team, led by Allen, gained first downs on a throw to Tim Patrick and a third-and-1 Craig Reynolds run behind Giovanni Manu. But the drive stalled when Patrick dropped a weird, floating pass that was behind him. He still should have caught it, but the tempo and placement clearly caught the receiver off guard on a crossing pattern that sliced through the offensive line to help him gain separation.
The second team defense scored an interception, with Luq Barcoo corralling a deflection off the hands of Braxton Berrios. But the Texans bounced back with a touchdown toss from Davis to tight end Luke Lachey, over cornerback Tyson Russell.
Detroit’s top offense missed on a big play to start the series when Goff’s third-and-3 throw to Raymond sailed beyond the receiver’s reach. He had good separation with a well-run wheel route from the slot.
Sticking with the top groups, Sam LaPorta came through with a conversion on an out route in the second set of plays.
Allen had less success when his blocking fell apart. Eguakun got dinged for a holding call on the first set, while Manu was beat for a sack on third down during the second effort.
Blocking continued to be a problem when the first-team offense returned to the field. Texans star pass rusher Will Anderson got the best of Penei Sewell, forcing Goff to fumble. Anderson rushed from a wide alignment, feigning inside before trying to bend around Sewell's outside shoulder. The off-balance lineman tried to desperately shove Anderson wide. However, the defender made a diving stab at the ball and was able to knock it free from Goff’s grasp.
After a brief break for the twos, the Texans’ starters rebounded with three first downs on four plays, with Collins catching the first two and Berrios getting behind Reed on a throw from a designed rollout.
That wasn’t noticed live as the Lions celebrated and gave way to the second group, even though the situation had occurred on a second-down play.
Hooker came on with the second unit and found Lovett twice for third-down conversions.
● Let’s start with a participation report. It’s pretty clean, all things considered.
Safety Kerby Joseph (knee) and defensive tackle Brodric Martin returned to practice. More on a Joseph in a bit, but it didn’t look like there was any rust as he was worked back in.
The only three not practicing for the Lions — not including guys on the physically unable to perform or non-football injury lists — were safety Morice Norris (concussion), center Trystan Colon (elbow) and rookie defensive end Ahmed Hassanein (pec).
Norris and Colon were running off to the side, suggesting both are making good progress toward a return. Hassanein was in attendance. I caught up with him briefly, walking off the field, and he confirmed his MRI results were good and he’ll avoid surgery, but it’s too early to say how long he might be out of action.
In terms of practice injuries, running back Sione Vaki left with a trainer about halfway through the day and didn’t return, adding to his frustrating offseason.
More concerning, center Graham Glasgow suffered a lower leg injury in the late stages of practice. After being helped off the field, he eventually left the sideline and went into the facility under his own power. He was replaced in the lineup by Kingsley Eguakun.
● As with the joint practices with the Dolphins, I split fields with podcast partner Will Burchfield. I observed the Lions’ offense, while Burchfield scoped out Detroit’s defense. That means most of the defensive observations, outside of the end-of-game situational segment at the end of practice, are courtesy of Burchie.
Red zone 7-on-7
Lions offense
All three quarterbacks got an opportunity to work. Starter Jared Goff took six snaps, with the two backups drawing three each. The reps started at the 20-yard line and moved closer each play.Goff completed his first three passes, including a touchdown to Gibbs, running a Texas route. It should have been five straight completions to start, but Jameson Williams dropped a touchdown in the end zone.
Following the drop, Goff threw one of his best passes of camp, firing a laser between the cornerback and safety to St. Brown in the end zone. The Texans ended the drive with a clear win. Cornerback Derek Stingley cut in front of St. Brown at the front pylon, forcing the receiver to play defender and ensure the pass wasn’t intercepted.
Kyle Allen stepped in and immediately found Isaac TeSlaa for back-to-back touchdowns. The first was a 20-yard post, followed by a 15-yard shallow cross where the rookie showed his speed by turning the corner and jetting down the left sideline across the goal line.
Hendon Hooker kept the good times rolling with two scores on three plays, hitting Jackson Meeks along the back line on the first snap and tight end Zach Horton on a flare to the flat on the third. It was nearly a three-for-three segment for Hooker, but Dominic Lovett couldn’t get both feet in bounds on a good throw to the back of the end zone.
Lions defense
The Detroit defense got off to a hot start as well, with the returning Joseph stepping in front of, and intercepting, a pass intended for Nico Collins.After a series of three short throws, quarterback C.J. Stroud found Collins on a scoring slant, beating the coverage of cornerback D.J. Reed.
Stroud gave way to backup Davis Milles, who followed a similar pattern with three short completions before connecting with rookie Jayden Higgins for a touchdown, working a curl against Khalil Dorsey.
Davis also had a scoring toss to Jaylin Noel, a fade over cornerback Allan George.
Full team, neutral field drive
Lions offense
The starting group cruised early, gaining 47 yards on four plays, highlighted by a 25-yard dig to St. Brown. But the Texans’ defense threatened to bend without breaking, stuffing a Montgomery run and breaking up throws to St. Brown and Raymond. That was until Detroit ended on a high note with Raymond taking a short throw and slicing inside to convert a third-and-long inside the 5-yard line.The second team, led by Allen, gained first downs on a throw to Tim Patrick and a third-and-1 Craig Reynolds run behind Giovanni Manu. But the drive stalled when Patrick dropped a weird, floating pass that was behind him. He still should have caught it, but the tempo and placement clearly caught the receiver off guard on a crossing pattern that sliced through the offensive line to help him gain separation.
Lions defense
Detroit’s first-team defense had a strong showing, stuffing two runs and forcing four consecutive incompletions to generate back-to-back three-and-outs. Terrion Arnold made a leaping breakup on a throw for Collins on the sixth and final play.The second team defense scored an interception, with Luq Barcoo corralling a deflection off the hands of Braxton Berrios. But the Texans bounced back with a touchdown toss from Davis to tight end Luke Lachey, over cornerback Tyson Russell.
Full team (second-and-long situations)
Lions offense
Earlier in the week, Lions coach Dan Campbell noted that the teams were going to work on these second-and-long situations.Detroit’s top offense missed on a big play to start the series when Goff’s third-and-3 throw to Raymond sailed beyond the receiver’s reach. He had good separation with a well-run wheel route from the slot.
Sticking with the top groups, Sam LaPorta came through with a conversion on an out route in the second set of plays.
Allen had less success when his blocking fell apart. Eguakun got dinged for a holding call on the first set, while Manu was beat for a sack on third down during the second effort.
Blocking continued to be a problem when the first-team offense returned to the field. Texans star pass rusher Will Anderson got the best of Penei Sewell, forcing Goff to fumble. Anderson rushed from a wide alignment, feigning inside before trying to bend around Sewell's outside shoulder. The off-balance lineman tried to desperately shove Anderson wide. However, the defender made a diving stab at the ball and was able to knock it free from Goff’s grasp.
Lions defense
Detroit’s first-team defense didn’t give up a first down during the first set. Brian Branch and Reed made a couple of quick stops in the open field, rookie Tyleik Williams got some pocket pressure, forcing a throwaway, and a penalty wiped out Stroud’s only completion.After a brief break for the twos, the Texans’ starters rebounded with three first downs on four plays, with Collins catching the first two and Berrios getting behind Reed on a throw from a designed rollout.
Full team, drive starting at 30
Lions offense
St. Brown forced an immediate defensive pass interference for 17 yards and soon followed that up with a third-down conversion with an out route. The Lions looked to have a touchdown with a beautiful corner pattern from Goff to Williams, but a closer look showed the receiver’s toes on one foot were out of bounds.That wasn’t noticed live as the Lions celebrated and gave way to the second group, even though the situation had occurred on a second-down play.
Hooker came on with the second unit and found Lovett twice for third-down conversions.
Lions defense
Amik Robertson added to Detroit’s turnover parade with a diving pick off Stroud across the middle. There were some rumblings that the ball might have hit the ground.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Another full-team segment, starting at 40
Lions offense
With a rare miscue, the Lions went three-and-out after LaPorta dropped a third-down pass.The second team managed to find paydirt when Tom Kennedy netted a first-down on a slant then sliced through the Texans ’ defense for a 28-yard touchdown on a third-and-10 screen, picking up a huge block from Shane Zylstra.
Red zone, full-team
Lions offense
Texans’ starters won the first set, blowing up a first-down screen try to LaPorta before cornerback Kamari Lassiter broke up a pass to Raymond in the end zone.The second set, starting first-and-goal from the 6, required one Montgomery handoff to net a touchdown for Detroit’s first-team offense.
The top unit stayed hot on the ground with Gibbs jetting around the right side for a 20-yard touchdown, followed by a bounce out to the left, where the back picked up a block from St. Brown for another 15-yard gain.
St. Brown would cap the series with another touchdown across the back line.
The Lions worked a two-point try after the score, but Goff was picked by safety Calen Bullock. The QB definitely tried to squeeze a no-look pass to St. Brown for the conversion, but missed Bullock sitting in the middle of the field.
The second team converted on their first try when Allen found Patrick. Nonetheless, the QB lost a fumble when Manu and Dan Skipper both surrendered pressure, and Skipper’s man, Darrell Taylor, forced a fumble.
Hooker got one series, and it wasn’t efficient, but ended with the QB finding Horton on a dump off just shy of the goal line that the tight end powered into the end zone.
Lions defense
The Texans scored three touchdowns from their starters: A Stroud scramble, a pretty throw from the quarterback to Christian Kirk, who bested Arnold, and a coverage bust that left running back Dameon Pierce wide open.Detroit closed strong with a sack by Hutchinson and a pass breakup by Alex Anzalone on a throw to tight end Dalton Schultz.
For the backups, veteran Avonte Maddox delivered Detroit’s fourth interception of the day.
End-of-game-situation
Lions offense
The offense got the ball at their own 39, down three, with 1:04 remaining and two timeouts.The Lions nearly had a touchdown on the first play, but Raymond dropped a crosser with a ton of open field ahead of him. The veteran receiver rebounded the next play with a first-down grab to the 50, then added a second catch to reset the chains to the Texans’ 38.
A 22-yard pass to LaPorta put the Lions in the red zone with 14 seconds remaining. The Lions had to spike it after the grab, having burned their final timeout when Glasgow suffered his injury.
After two incompletions due to pressure, the Lions settled for a tying, 36-yard field goal from Bates.
Lions defense
Facing the same situation, the Texans also settled for a field goal. Reed gave up a third-down conversion to Xavier Hutchinson and nearly a second, longer catch to the rookie on the left sideline. However, that one was ruled out of bounds by the official.Robertson made a key stop in bounds on a short throw to Berrios, keeping the clock running. After Hutchinson dropped a short out route on the next snap, kicker Ka’imi Fairburn drilled a 56-yarder to end practice.
Special teams observations
● Jake Bates made all three of his field-goal attempts during a special teams segment, hitting from 51, 44 and 33 yards.● Grant Stuard lost a fumble as a kick returner, which might force the Lions to more strongly consider another option for that role.
● Zach Cunningham had two stops on kickoffs, including one where he plowed through a blocker to get to the return man.
First-team looks
● Keith Cooper continued to get a lot of work with the first-team defense.● Rock Ya-Sin regularly rotated in for Joseph, and Jamarco Jones occasionally took over at left tackle for Taylor Decker.
Sounds like Williams is very much on the roster bubble for the Bengals this year. I don't think that was much of a miss.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Up to date summary of TC injuries; shorter term and players expected back in season:
Shorter-term injuries
Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow
Updated: Aug. 21
Glasgow exited to be evaluated for a lower leg injury in the closing stages of the team’s joint practice with the Houston Texans. Initially helped off the field, the starting center eventually left the sideline and went inside the facility under his own power.
Running back Sione Vaki
Updated: Aug. 21
Vaki left the team’s joint practice with the Texans with an undisclosed injury and didn’t return.
Offensive lineman Trystan Colon
Updated: Aug. 21
Colon suffered an elbow injury in the team’s Aug. 8 preseason game with Atlanta. The good news is he wasn't placed on injured reserve, but his recovery timetable is vague. “Colon is out for a while,” Campbell said on Aug. 11.
On Aug. 21, Colon was spotted working with a trainer on the sideline for the first time since suffering the injury.
Defensive end Ahmed Hassanein
Updated: Aug 21
The rookie defensive lineman suffered a pec injury in the second half against the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 16. A couple of days later, Campbell said Hassanein will be down for a while.
“That's a good question,” Campbell said when asked if Hassanein’s injury is season-ending. “I don't have that answer yet.”
Hassanein confirmed after the team’s Aug. 21 practice that he won’t require surgery, but his timetable to return remains unclear.
Safety Morice Norris
Updated: Aug. 19
Norris is in concussion protocol after having to be taken off the field by ambulance in the team’s Aug. 8 game against Atlanta. On Aug. 11, Campbell said the young safety’s condition would be reassessed in 10-14 days.
“That's TBD right now,” Campbell said on Aug. 18 about Norris’ potential to play again this season. “Like I've said, we're being very thorough with this. He's doing well. He's doing good right now. I don't really want to go that far (into the future). I just know that he's down today.”
Norris worked on the side with a trainer during the team’s Aug. 19 practice, suggesting he’s making progress through the stages of the league’s return-to-play protocols.
Long-term injuries
Non-football injury
Defensive lineman Josh Paschal
Updated: Aug. 21
Paschal is on the shelf with an unidentified injury. He's been spotted running on the side under the supervision of a trainer multiple times during training camp.
On July 29, Campbell said Paschal remains on track for an early September return to practice. Still, the defender will require a ramp-up period before he's ready for game action.
However, on Aug. 21, Campbell said the recovery was taking longer than expected. Paschal is now likely to remain on NFI to begin the regular season, meaning he’ll miss at least the first four games.
Active/Physically unable to perform
Offensive lineman Miles Frazier
Updated: July 22
The rookie has been out of action since late May with a knee injury. On July 22, Campbell estimated Frazier wouldn’t be back until September or October.
Defensive tackle Alim McNeill
McNeill suffered a torn ACL in a Dec. 15 game against Buffalo. He had surgery a few weeks later and is projected for a midseason return.
Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez
Updated: July 22
Rodriguez has been making steady progress with his recovery from the torn ACL he suffered against the Chicago Bears last Thanksgiving. His projected timetable for returning has improved from November to October.
Offensive lineman Graham Glasgow
Updated: Aug. 21
Glasgow exited to be evaluated for a lower leg injury in the closing stages of the team’s joint practice with the Houston Texans. Initially helped off the field, the starting center eventually left the sideline and went inside the facility under his own power.
Running back Sione Vaki
Updated: Aug. 21
Vaki left the team’s joint practice with the Texans with an undisclosed injury and didn’t return.
Offensive lineman Trystan Colon
Updated: Aug. 21
Colon suffered an elbow injury in the team’s Aug. 8 preseason game with Atlanta. The good news is he wasn't placed on injured reserve, but his recovery timetable is vague. “Colon is out for a while,” Campbell said on Aug. 11.
On Aug. 21, Colon was spotted working with a trainer on the sideline for the first time since suffering the injury.
Defensive end Ahmed Hassanein
Updated: Aug 21
The rookie defensive lineman suffered a pec injury in the second half against the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 16. A couple of days later, Campbell said Hassanein will be down for a while.
“That's a good question,” Campbell said when asked if Hassanein’s injury is season-ending. “I don't have that answer yet.”
Hassanein confirmed after the team’s Aug. 21 practice that he won’t require surgery, but his timetable to return remains unclear.
Safety Morice Norris
Updated: Aug. 19
Norris is in concussion protocol after having to be taken off the field by ambulance in the team’s Aug. 8 game against Atlanta. On Aug. 11, Campbell said the young safety’s condition would be reassessed in 10-14 days.
“That's TBD right now,” Campbell said on Aug. 18 about Norris’ potential to play again this season. “Like I've said, we're being very thorough with this. He's doing well. He's doing good right now. I don't really want to go that far (into the future). I just know that he's down today.”
Norris worked on the side with a trainer during the team’s Aug. 19 practice, suggesting he’s making progress through the stages of the league’s return-to-play protocols.
Long-term injuries
Non-football injury
Defensive lineman Josh Paschal
Updated: Aug. 21
Paschal is on the shelf with an unidentified injury. He's been spotted running on the side under the supervision of a trainer multiple times during training camp.
On July 29, Campbell said Paschal remains on track for an early September return to practice. Still, the defender will require a ramp-up period before he's ready for game action.
However, on Aug. 21, Campbell said the recovery was taking longer than expected. Paschal is now likely to remain on NFI to begin the regular season, meaning he’ll miss at least the first four games.
Active/Physically unable to perform
Offensive lineman Miles Frazier
Updated: July 22
The rookie has been out of action since late May with a knee injury. On July 22, Campbell estimated Frazier wouldn’t be back until September or October.
Defensive tackle Alim McNeill
McNeill suffered a torn ACL in a Dec. 15 game against Buffalo. He had surgery a few weeks later and is projected for a midseason return.
Linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez
Updated: July 22
Rodriguez has been making steady progress with his recovery from the torn ACL he suffered against the Chicago Bears last Thanksgiving. His projected timetable for returning has improved from November to October.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Reserved/Physically unable to perform
Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike
After dealing with nagging knee pain this offseason, a medical evaluation revealed the lineman needed surgery to repair a damaged ACL. He’s been ruled out for the season.
Injured reserve
Cornerback Dicaprio Bootle
Bootle left practice on Aug. 13 to be evaluated for a lower leg injury. He was placed on injured reserve the next day.
Offensive tackle Justin Herron
Herron suffered an arm injury in pre-game warmups ahead of the team’s preseason matchup with the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 8. He was placed on injured reserve Aug. 10.
Safety Dan Jackson
Jackson suffered a leg injury during practice on Aug. 3 and was placed on injured reserve the following day.
Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Rakestraw suffered a chest contusion after a violent midfield collision during the team’s first training camp practice. A few days after returning to action, the second-year cornerback suffered a shoulder injury during a tackling drill. He was placed on injured reserve four days later and has since undergone surgery.
Offensive lineman Colby Sorsdal
Sorsal suffered a leg injury in the team’s preseason game against Atlanta on Aug. 8 and was placed on injured reserve Aug. 10.
Offensive lineman Keaton Sutherland
Sutherland suffered a nasty-looking leg injury during the team’s joint practice with the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 9 and was placed on injured reserve the next day.
Tight end Kenny Yeboah
Yeboah suffered a knee injury in the Hall of Fame game on July 31. He returned to practice the next week, but was placed on injured reserve on Aug. 10, following the team’s second preseason game.
Defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike
After dealing with nagging knee pain this offseason, a medical evaluation revealed the lineman needed surgery to repair a damaged ACL. He’s been ruled out for the season.
Injured reserve
Cornerback Dicaprio Bootle
Bootle left practice on Aug. 13 to be evaluated for a lower leg injury. He was placed on injured reserve the next day.
Offensive tackle Justin Herron
Herron suffered an arm injury in pre-game warmups ahead of the team’s preseason matchup with the Atlanta Falcons on Aug. 8. He was placed on injured reserve Aug. 10.
Safety Dan Jackson
Jackson suffered a leg injury during practice on Aug. 3 and was placed on injured reserve the following day.
Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Rakestraw suffered a chest contusion after a violent midfield collision during the team’s first training camp practice. A few days after returning to action, the second-year cornerback suffered a shoulder injury during a tackling drill. He was placed on injured reserve four days later and has since undergone surgery.
Offensive lineman Colby Sorsdal
Sorsal suffered a leg injury in the team’s preseason game against Atlanta on Aug. 8 and was placed on injured reserve Aug. 10.
Offensive lineman Keaton Sutherland
Sutherland suffered a nasty-looking leg injury during the team’s joint practice with the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 9 and was placed on injured reserve the next day.
Tight end Kenny Yeboah
Yeboah suffered a knee injury in the Hall of Fame game on July 31. He returned to practice the next week, but was placed on injured reserve on Aug. 10, following the team’s second preseason game.
The previous post and this one are organized by length & severity as follows:
- Shorter Term - 5
- Long Term NFI - 1
- Active PUP - 3
- Reserved PUP - 1
- Injured Reserve - 7
Final cuts are August 26, which makes the evaluation tough for guys like Colon and Norris, along with two who just came back this week - Khalil Dorsey and Mekhi Wingo.
Khalil has been a core Special Teamer, I think they try to squeeze him onto the roster. Mekhi might have to go through waivers & hope they can resign to the practice squad unless he gets an injury designation. Hassanein seems destined to take one of the two IR-Return slots.
The 8 season ending injuries includes two players who figured prominently in the Lions 2025 roster plans - Onwuzurike & Rakestraw.
From the Long Term NFI & PUP, Paschal, Frazier, McNeil, and Rodriguez are expected back anywhere from early October to mid-season.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Lions Collective
decent newish podcast featuring Will Burchfield (97.1), Colton Pouncy (The Athletic) & Justin Rogers (Detroit Football Network)
Went over Dan Campbell’s revealing press conference comments, how that affects roster projections, and reviewing today’s joint practice.
decent newish podcast featuring Will Burchfield (97.1), Colton Pouncy (The Athletic) & Justin Rogers (Detroit Football Network)
Went over Dan Campbell’s revealing press conference comments, how that affects roster projections, and reviewing today’s joint practice.
Sounds like Brad & Dan are concerned about depth, and seems like they’re floating the idea of not keeping a third QB. Makes more sense to keep another positional player who they might need at some point than a QB3 who won’t ever see the field. And if they’re keeping two, there’s no doubt about who the QB2 is right now.
It looked like Glasgow avoided anything major, but won’t know until Campbell meets with the media after the game Saturday.
But if GG did end up missing time…whew boy.
It looked like Glasgow avoided anything major, but won’t know until Campbell meets with the media after the game Saturday.
But if GG did end up missing time…whew boy.
- C Kingsley Eguakun has never been on the active roster (practice squad all of last year.)
- LG Mahogany has 1 regular season start (+ the Division Round.) Played great 2x but if they had to start the backup C we could have an IOL with 1 start between the 3 of them.
- Ratledge hasn’t snapped a ball since Day 4 of TC. Would have to go through a crash course if he had to start at C. Has always been a RG. Terrific athlete and long term he could develop into the next Ragnow, he’s that good, but just doesn’t have the time on task.
- G Kayode Awosika has 7 starts, on both sides. He is adequate.
- G/C Tristan Colon was working on the side with trainers today, should be back soon. He hasn’t started at C since 2021 but with 5 years experience he might be their best option as a short term solution at C.
- Terrion Arnold vs Nico Collins was a great matchup, TA locked him down early but Nico got a few late. Arnold sounds vastly improved.
- Kalif Raymond is the WR3? That’s what it looks like right now. We all assume the X and 3rd wideout is either TP or TeSlaa, but Morton really wants to go deep more. He really likes Raymond. Red Zone will be the bigger guys but sounds like Kalif is going to see an expanded role. (I’ll believe it when I see it.)
- Brian Branch is going to have more of a Kyle Hamilton type role this year. He is their smartest and most instinctual defender and Shepp is putting more on his plate
- Campbell really agonizes over the final cuts. Gets tougher every year because the roster keeps getting stronger. Really tough decisions at QB3, WR6/7, OL, DL, DB, etc al.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
A different cat: Detroit Lions' Raymond talks trust, relentless drive and selfless desire to help potential replacements
Allen Park — Kalif Raymond is a pass-catching dichotomy, crafted by his unique NFL experience.
On one hand, he’s unceasingly urgent, fully believing his professional tomorrow is never promised. That’s contrasted against a perpetual zen-like demeanor, curated through meditation and a genuine contentment rooted in knowing he can’t give more than his best.
Raymond, 31, is entering his fifth season with the Lions. It’s stability he couldn’t have dreamed of when he initially signed a one-year deal with the team in 2021, making it his sixth stop in as many seasons after going undrafted out of Holy Cross in 2016.
That journeyman past is why he relentlessly pushes to preserve his future.
“You never know,” Raymond said. “Up until I got here, I never knew. It's not something that comes naturally. That never goes away.”
Through four seasons, Raymond has embodied what the Lions have been about since his arrival. If the franchise’s success is built on grit and hard work, is there a better example than the receiver? He’s consistently the last player to leave the field, catching 200 passes off the JUGS machine after each practice. He suits up for preseason games even when he knows he’s not going to play to maintain his routine. And, as a ninth-year veteran a year ago, he participated in rookie minicamp, for no reason other than to get some extra work in ahead of the rest of the roster’s veterans reporting for duty.
The results speak for themselves. Raymond is a two-time All-Pro as a punt returner, and his four most productive seasons as a receiver have all come in a Detroit uniform, including 95 catches for 1,192 across the 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
Last offseason, when the Lions struggled to find a No. 3 receiver to pair with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, Raymond looked like he might end up the guy. However, it didn’t play out that way.
After serving in the role for the first two games, Tim Patrick stepped in to fill that spot. Raymond would log just 11 offensive snaps the next two weeks and not top 25 reps again the remainder of the season. He finished with 17 catches, on 22 targets, both lows for his Lions tenure, marking a three-year decline in usage.
It’s not as if he lost a step. Raymond averaged a career-best 13.8 yards as a punt returner last season, earning his second All-Pro nod. It was simply a shift in his role. And who could argue with the big-picture results, given that the Lions set a franchise record for points scored?
Yet with former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson taking the head coaching job in Chicago this offseason, training camp rotations suggest Raymond might be in for a late-career rebound.
Maybe new coordinator John Morton, a former receiver, sees more in Raymond than Johnson did the past couple of seasons. With Patrick struggling the first couple of weeks of camp, it’s been Raymond, not ultra-popular rookie Isaac TeSlaa, getting bumped up to first-team reps.
Thursday’s practice against the Texans validated the decision.
Raymond was everywhere during the joint session and was two plays away from being the day’s biggest star. On one, Raymond ran a perfectly executed wheel, using a natural screen from a teammate’s route to gain healthy separation down the right sideline, only for quarterback Jared Goff to overshoot the open throw.
The other missed play was Raymond’s own doing. Typically sure-handed, he dropped a shallow crossing route during some end-of-game situational work. Had he made the grab, there was enough open grass in front of him that he would have cruised 40 yards into the red zone, with a realistic chance to take it 61 yards to the house.
The miscue had Raymond kicking himself after practice.
“I’m sick about that one,” he said.
That’s a common mentality among NFL players. They can make 10 great plays, but it’s the one they didn’t make that sticks with them longest. Raymond might not have made 10 great plays against the Texans on Thursday, but it was close. He hauled in several passes, made tacklers miss in the open field, and threw a big block on a 20-yard Jahmyr touchdown run around the right side of the formation.
Who knows? Maybe he’s serving as a placeholder at the No. 3 again. Raymond might end up fading into the background as Patrick awakes from his summer slumber and the rapidly developing TeSlaa commands more playing time. Regardless, in this moment, Raymond deserves more snaps and targets than he had a year ago.
But this is where Raymond’s zen-like mindset shines through. Whether he’s playing 50 snaps or two, the bond he’s forged with team leadership has him at peace with however the plan may materialize.
“I trust the organization,” Raymond said. “That trust has brought a lot of peace and a lot of love within my family. So I know that I go control what they expect me to. That’s hard work intensity, everything I’ve got to do in the back end, knowing the playbook. They trust me to bring that, and I trust them to handle all this stuff. And it's been a blessing to be here with my family.
“However it plays out, whatever plays out,” Raymond said. “My job is to do what I'm expected to do, what they trust me to do.”
The trust is a two-way street, only strengthening the bond between player and team, and more specifically, player and coach Dan Campbell.
Last year, Raymond was fretting over how to handle a late-game punt, working through the scenario out loud with Campbell on the sideline regarding the time remaining, field position and what Raymond thought the punter might try in the situation.
Raymond wanted Campbell to provide some guidance. Instead, the coach looked the veteran in the eyes and said, “Look, man, I trust whatever decision you make.”
That’s the quiet mastery of Campbell, elevating his players’ confidence in critical moments. But, for Raymond, it extended beyond the moment. It’s why he never gets hung up on his role. The trust both sides have in each other borders on unconditional.
Another component of that is how Raymond approaches being a teammate. It’s easy to look at his situation and wonder if this might be his last year in Detroit. He’s on the wrong side of 30, entering the final year of his contract, and the team has drafted a viable, low-cost replacement in Dominic Lovett. There’s a clear overlap between the two players' work ethics and skill sets.
Many veterans would see the writing on the wall and perceive the newcomer as a threat. Raymond, like he has for years, has welcomed Lovett with open arms. Instead of hoarding the veteran knowledge gained through a decade’s worth of experience, Raymond freely gives it in hopes that Lovett, or some of the others who have come through the building, like Isaiah Williams last year, don’t have to deal with the instability Raymond faced through the early stages of his career.
“Because it's hard,” Raymond said about the selfless approach. “I went through a lot in this league, and helping hands here and there would have done a lot for me.
“I know how hard it is to get here and stay here,” Raymond continued. “I know what I went through to be in this league. If I can give anybody anything so they don't have to go through that, so they can accelerate whatever their goals are, whatever their career is going to look like, I’m going to give it to them every time.”
Raymond isn’t worried about what’s coming behind him; he’s focused on laying the best path forward for both himself and his teammates. Ten years in, he’s still striving to get better, to prove to himself, his teammates and the coaches he can do more if they need him.
This camp has proved that. Thursday epitomized it.
Of course, the play he didn’t make eats at him, just like another one earlier in camp did. When he didn’t haul in that pass, an over-the-shoulder variety, he repped it 20 times after practice, making sure to recalibrate a skill he didn’t want to slip beyond that moment.
He’ll do the same with shallow crossing routes this week.
“I got to tune that back in and focus on it,” Raymond said. That way, when it's actually (Week 1 in) Green Bay, when it's one of these games that actually count, I'm tuned in. I've already made the mistake and corrected it by the time that gets here.”
As noted, Raymond looks as quick and agile as ever, regularly whooping Detroit's defensive backs in one-on-one work. It wouldn’t be surprising for the Lions to find a way to extend him a third time, keeping the veteran around a little longer than this year. He has meant and continues to mean so much to the organization beyond his contributions on the field.
However, if this season ends up his swan song, giving way to Lovett or another younger option, Raymond's impact won’t soon fade.
On one hand, he’s unceasingly urgent, fully believing his professional tomorrow is never promised. That’s contrasted against a perpetual zen-like demeanor, curated through meditation and a genuine contentment rooted in knowing he can’t give more than his best.
Raymond, 31, is entering his fifth season with the Lions. It’s stability he couldn’t have dreamed of when he initially signed a one-year deal with the team in 2021, making it his sixth stop in as many seasons after going undrafted out of Holy Cross in 2016.
That journeyman past is why he relentlessly pushes to preserve his future.
“You never know,” Raymond said. “Up until I got here, I never knew. It's not something that comes naturally. That never goes away.”
Through four seasons, Raymond has embodied what the Lions have been about since his arrival. If the franchise’s success is built on grit and hard work, is there a better example than the receiver? He’s consistently the last player to leave the field, catching 200 passes off the JUGS machine after each practice. He suits up for preseason games even when he knows he’s not going to play to maintain his routine. And, as a ninth-year veteran a year ago, he participated in rookie minicamp, for no reason other than to get some extra work in ahead of the rest of the roster’s veterans reporting for duty.
The results speak for themselves. Raymond is a two-time All-Pro as a punt returner, and his four most productive seasons as a receiver have all come in a Detroit uniform, including 95 catches for 1,192 across the 2021 and 2022 campaigns.
Last offseason, when the Lions struggled to find a No. 3 receiver to pair with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, Raymond looked like he might end up the guy. However, it didn’t play out that way.
After serving in the role for the first two games, Tim Patrick stepped in to fill that spot. Raymond would log just 11 offensive snaps the next two weeks and not top 25 reps again the remainder of the season. He finished with 17 catches, on 22 targets, both lows for his Lions tenure, marking a three-year decline in usage.
It’s not as if he lost a step. Raymond averaged a career-best 13.8 yards as a punt returner last season, earning his second All-Pro nod. It was simply a shift in his role. And who could argue with the big-picture results, given that the Lions set a franchise record for points scored?
Yet with former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson taking the head coaching job in Chicago this offseason, training camp rotations suggest Raymond might be in for a late-career rebound.
Maybe new coordinator John Morton, a former receiver, sees more in Raymond than Johnson did the past couple of seasons. With Patrick struggling the first couple of weeks of camp, it’s been Raymond, not ultra-popular rookie Isaac TeSlaa, getting bumped up to first-team reps.
Thursday’s practice against the Texans validated the decision.
Raymond was everywhere during the joint session and was two plays away from being the day’s biggest star. On one, Raymond ran a perfectly executed wheel, using a natural screen from a teammate’s route to gain healthy separation down the right sideline, only for quarterback Jared Goff to overshoot the open throw.
The other missed play was Raymond’s own doing. Typically sure-handed, he dropped a shallow crossing route during some end-of-game situational work. Had he made the grab, there was enough open grass in front of him that he would have cruised 40 yards into the red zone, with a realistic chance to take it 61 yards to the house.
The miscue had Raymond kicking himself after practice.
“I’m sick about that one,” he said.
That’s a common mentality among NFL players. They can make 10 great plays, but it’s the one they didn’t make that sticks with them longest. Raymond might not have made 10 great plays against the Texans on Thursday, but it was close. He hauled in several passes, made tacklers miss in the open field, and threw a big block on a 20-yard Jahmyr touchdown run around the right side of the formation.
Who knows? Maybe he’s serving as a placeholder at the No. 3 again. Raymond might end up fading into the background as Patrick awakes from his summer slumber and the rapidly developing TeSlaa commands more playing time. Regardless, in this moment, Raymond deserves more snaps and targets than he had a year ago.
But this is where Raymond’s zen-like mindset shines through. Whether he’s playing 50 snaps or two, the bond he’s forged with team leadership has him at peace with however the plan may materialize.
“I trust the organization,” Raymond said. “That trust has brought a lot of peace and a lot of love within my family. So I know that I go control what they expect me to. That’s hard work intensity, everything I’ve got to do in the back end, knowing the playbook. They trust me to bring that, and I trust them to handle all this stuff. And it's been a blessing to be here with my family.
“However it plays out, whatever plays out,” Raymond said. “My job is to do what I'm expected to do, what they trust me to do.”
The trust is a two-way street, only strengthening the bond between player and team, and more specifically, player and coach Dan Campbell.
Last year, Raymond was fretting over how to handle a late-game punt, working through the scenario out loud with Campbell on the sideline regarding the time remaining, field position and what Raymond thought the punter might try in the situation.
Raymond wanted Campbell to provide some guidance. Instead, the coach looked the veteran in the eyes and said, “Look, man, I trust whatever decision you make.”
That’s the quiet mastery of Campbell, elevating his players’ confidence in critical moments. But, for Raymond, it extended beyond the moment. It’s why he never gets hung up on his role. The trust both sides have in each other borders on unconditional.
Another component of that is how Raymond approaches being a teammate. It’s easy to look at his situation and wonder if this might be his last year in Detroit. He’s on the wrong side of 30, entering the final year of his contract, and the team has drafted a viable, low-cost replacement in Dominic Lovett. There’s a clear overlap between the two players' work ethics and skill sets.
Many veterans would see the writing on the wall and perceive the newcomer as a threat. Raymond, like he has for years, has welcomed Lovett with open arms. Instead of hoarding the veteran knowledge gained through a decade’s worth of experience, Raymond freely gives it in hopes that Lovett, or some of the others who have come through the building, like Isaiah Williams last year, don’t have to deal with the instability Raymond faced through the early stages of his career.
“Because it's hard,” Raymond said about the selfless approach. “I went through a lot in this league, and helping hands here and there would have done a lot for me.
“I know how hard it is to get here and stay here,” Raymond continued. “I know what I went through to be in this league. If I can give anybody anything so they don't have to go through that, so they can accelerate whatever their goals are, whatever their career is going to look like, I’m going to give it to them every time.”
Raymond isn’t worried about what’s coming behind him; he’s focused on laying the best path forward for both himself and his teammates. Ten years in, he’s still striving to get better, to prove to himself, his teammates and the coaches he can do more if they need him.
This camp has proved that. Thursday epitomized it.
Of course, the play he didn’t make eats at him, just like another one earlier in camp did. When he didn’t haul in that pass, an over-the-shoulder variety, he repped it 20 times after practice, making sure to recalibrate a skill he didn’t want to slip beyond that moment.
He’ll do the same with shallow crossing routes this week.
“I got to tune that back in and focus on it,” Raymond said. That way, when it's actually (Week 1 in) Green Bay, when it's one of these games that actually count, I'm tuned in. I've already made the mistake and corrected it by the time that gets here.”
As noted, Raymond looks as quick and agile as ever, regularly whooping Detroit's defensive backs in one-on-one work. It wouldn’t be surprising for the Lions to find a way to extend him a third time, keeping the veteran around a little longer than this year. He has meant and continues to mean so much to the organization beyond his contributions on the field.
However, if this season ends up his swan song, giving way to Lovett or another younger option, Raymond's impact won’t soon fade.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Latest update on Glasgow.
Graham Glasgow injury update: Lions center suffered 'minor issue', no long-term concern
Graham Glasgow injury update: Lions center suffered 'minor issue' to his lower leg and is not expected to have any long-term concern, per a report
lionswire.usatoday.com
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
The brutal 2025 schedule for Detroit - BEFORE the bye the first 4 road games are GB, BAL, CIN, & KC, while AFTER the bye it's at WAS, at PHI, at LAR & at MIN - does have a couple silver linings.
In what must be some kind of record, 5 of our opponents will be on a short week after playing on MNF. Two others will be coming off TNF.
The Lions will travel a total of 11,411 miles to their 9 road games. Only three teams will travel fewer miles (BAL, BUF, CIN.)
The Lions will cross 14 time zones for their 9 road games. Only the 4 AFC East teams plus BAL, CIN & NYG will cross fewer time zones.
In what must be some kind of record, 5 of our opponents will be on a short week after playing on MNF. Two others will be coming off TNF.
- Week 2 home vs CHI off Monday Night Football home
- Week 5 away at CIN off Monday Night Football away
- Week 6 away at KC off Monday Night Football away
- Week 8 bye
- Week 9 home vs MIN off Thursday Night Football away
- Week 11 away at PHI off Monday Night Football away
- Week 14 home vs DAL both off Thanksgiving home
- Week 16 home vs PIT off Monday Night Football home
The Lions will travel a total of 11,411 miles to their 9 road games. Only three teams will travel fewer miles (BAL, BUF, CIN.)
The Lions will cross 14 time zones for their 9 road games. Only the 4 AFC East teams plus BAL, CIN & NYG will cross fewer time zones.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Optimistic updates from Alim McNeil and Ahmed Hassanein courtesy of Justin Rogers and Dave Birkett (via Jeremy Reisman at Pride of Detroit):
Rookie Ahmed Hassanein, who suffered a pectoral injury during the team’s third preseason game, is expected to be out for “a while,” per coach Dan Campbell. The Lions coach also wouldn’t count out it being a season-ending injury. But on social media, Hassanein said he avoided the need for surgery. Then, after Thursday’s practice, in which Hassanein was standing on the sidelines, he told Detroit Football Network’s Justin Rogers that his latest MRI revealed good news.
From Rogers:
Campbell, too, was asked about any update on Hassanein, but the Lions coach said he had no new information to share.
Another good sign for Hassanein is that he has avoided season-ending injured reserve thus far. If the Lions were certain he’d miss the entire 2025 season, they would have likely put him on IR by now. Instead, they could place Hassanein on IR on the cutdown deadline day, which would make him eligible to return after a minimum of four games missed. Still, it’s unclear when—and if—Hassanein will return this season.
Alim McNeill, who suffered an ACL injury in December, has been seen on the sideline for most of training camp, and has recently been seen getting work with trainers, as well. Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press briefly caught up with McNeill after Thursday’s joint practice with the Texans, and the defensive tackle had some positive updates.
McNeill told Birkett that he was ahead of schedule, confirming what Lions general manager Brad Holmes said earlier in training camp. While the defensive tackle wouldn’t provide a timeline on his return, he said he would “for sure” be back before Thanksgiving. As he put it, he’s in the final stages of his rehab, which is focused on getting his full strength back.
”At this point, it’s like baking a cake. It’s just putting the finishing touches on it,” McNeill told Birkett.
Per Birkett, McNeill is already working on “cutting, running, and jumping.”
The team has never really provided a firm estimate on when McNeill will return. The closest came during the owners meeting in April when Campbell said they don’t expect him for “the early part of the season.” So when he takes the field still remains a bit of a mystery. At the moment, we’re right around the eight-month mark since his ACL tear and subsequent surgery.
Rookie Ahmed Hassanein, who suffered a pectoral injury during the team’s third preseason game, is expected to be out for “a while,” per coach Dan Campbell. The Lions coach also wouldn’t count out it being a season-ending injury. But on social media, Hassanein said he avoided the need for surgery. Then, after Thursday’s practice, in which Hassanein was standing on the sidelines, he told Detroit Football Network’s Justin Rogers that his latest MRI revealed good news.
From Rogers:
Campbell, too, was asked about any update on Hassanein, but the Lions coach said he had no new information to share.
Another good sign for Hassanein is that he has avoided season-ending injured reserve thus far. If the Lions were certain he’d miss the entire 2025 season, they would have likely put him on IR by now. Instead, they could place Hassanein on IR on the cutdown deadline day, which would make him eligible to return after a minimum of four games missed. Still, it’s unclear when—and if—Hassanein will return this season.
Alim McNeill, who suffered an ACL injury in December, has been seen on the sideline for most of training camp, and has recently been seen getting work with trainers, as well. Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press briefly caught up with McNeill after Thursday’s joint practice with the Texans, and the defensive tackle had some positive updates.
McNeill told Birkett that he was ahead of schedule, confirming what Lions general manager Brad Holmes said earlier in training camp. While the defensive tackle wouldn’t provide a timeline on his return, he said he would “for sure” be back before Thanksgiving. As he put it, he’s in the final stages of his rehab, which is focused on getting his full strength back.
”At this point, it’s like baking a cake. It’s just putting the finishing touches on it,” McNeill told Birkett.
Per Birkett, McNeill is already working on “cutting, running, and jumping.”
The team has never really provided a firm estimate on when McNeill will return. The closest came during the owners meeting in April when Campbell said they don’t expect him for “the early part of the season.” So when he takes the field still remains a bit of a mystery. At the moment, we’re right around the eight-month mark since his ACL tear and subsequent surgery.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
With jobs on the line, here's who we're following during Lions' preseason finale
Allen Park — We’ve reached the finish line of a longer-than-standard preseason for the Detroit Lions. That's thanks to being selected to play in last month’s Hall of Fame game, the opener for the league’s exhibition slate.
While nearly every other NFL franchise plays three preseason matchups, the Lions will be taking part in a fourth when they host the Houston Texans at Ford Field on Saturday at 1 p.m. The silver lining is that it provides an extra opportunity to evaluate a roster that’s gotten a little deeper and more talented each year of general manager Brad Holmes’ five-year tenure.
On Thursday, ahead of the team’s joint practice with the Texans, coach Dan Campbell was asked about the difficult roster decisions ahead.
“For sure there will be tough decisions,” Campbell said. “I can think of three right now, just off the top of my head, and there are a couple more than that. ...It’s going to be really, really tough. But that’s part of the game. That’s part of this whole process.”
Campbell expected Thursday's practice and Saturday’s game to provide some clarity. With that in mind, here’s where our eyes will be focused when the sides meet again at Ford Field, with a handful of jobs hanging in the balance.
Hooker has performed well on the practice field, showing undeniable growth within Detroit’s scheme. Regardless, he hasn’t been able to port that success to the games, where he’s cobbled together a dismal 36.1 passer rating and lost two fumbles.
The biggest issue has been Hooker’s pocket presence. He’s occasionally reacted to phantom pressure, leading to premature bailings. Other times, he hasn’t felt the defender before he arrives. Each scenario contributed to one of his fumbles.
Hooker has already lost the backup job to Kyle Allen. The question has morphed into whether the team can justify keeping three QBs or if this will be Hooker's final game in a Lions uniform. It’s not too late, but his offseason promise can’t be limited to the practice field. He needs to show something, anything, during game action.
If Patrick is in, that means the Lions will have at least five receivers on the 53-man roster. How many more can they reasonably fit?
Seventh-round pick Dominic Lovett and undrafted rookie Jackson Meeks are both deserving. Truly.
Lovett has been more up-and-down, in part because he missed time with an abdominal injury. However, the Lions targeted the former Missouri and Georgia standout on Day 3 of the draft for a reason. There’s some sanding needed to smooth the rough corners of his game, but there’s clear offensive and special teams upside.
Meeks, meanwhile, offers size, contested-catch ability, premium run blocking and versatility on special teams. But the reality is he’s earned a job through his preseason performance, hauling in 10 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns the past two games.
As one of Holmes’ draft picks, Lovett carries an inherent edge. Still, it will probably be easier to sneak a 185-pound receiver who was more of a gadget player in college through waivers than the 6-foot-2, 218-pound Meeks. There’s a hunger around the league for receiving talent right now. As much as we admittedly tend to overinflate the value of guys we see every day, it’s difficult to imagine every other NFL GM declining to put a claim in on Meeks if he becomes available.
Since the Lions wisely locked rookie Tate Ratledge into right guard, the position he played in college, it’s been a three-man competition between Kingley Eguakun, Michael Niese, and late veteran addition, Trystan Colon.
Despite holding a roster spot last season, Niese has seemingly fallen behind Eguakun and Colon in the race. Then, Colon suffered an elbow injury that has kept him shelved for the past two weeks. With his path clear to the job, Eguakun has been hit or miss. The biggest concern is his play strength. He’s a little undersized at 305 pounds, and it shows up regularly when he tries to anchor against bigger, stronger defensive tackles like Miami’s Zeek Biggers.
Even in matchups against teammate Brodric Martin, who has been a disappointment overall, Eguakun often looks like he’s fighting for his life in one-on-one reps. A clean sheet against the Texans on Saturday would go a long way toward quelling concerns about his preparedness to be the next man up if Glasgow goes down, whether that's for five snaps or five weeks.
That’s still in play, but while the Lions afforded the soon-to-be 33-year-old Smith the opportunity to skip training camp, the team was able to get a long look at some of its younger edge-rushing options. And, in many ways, Nate Lynn and Isaac Ukwu didn’t disappoint with their month-long auditions.
They’re different style defenders. However, both offer something in the pass-rush department. Lynn is a bender who threatens the edge in a hurry with his first-step quickness. Additionally, he’s showcased a little bit of positional flexibility, sliding inside on obvious passing downs, similar to what he did at William & Mary before signing with the Lions as an undrafted free agent last year.
Ukwu, meanwhile, is a 270-pound pocket-crusher who has shown a viable long-arm move. He plays with the style the Lions prefer opposite Aidan Hutchinson. What Ukwu lacks is the consistency the Lions would like to see at that spot, even if they’re only looking for someone to play 10-15 snaps per week.
Now, the choice has boiled down to Loren Strickland, Erick Hallett and undrafted rookie Ian Kennelly.
Strickland had an early lead, getting the start in the Hall of Fame game. However, Hallett and Kennelly have more recently netted first-team reps when there’s been an injury ahead of them on the depth chart.
Like Lynn and Ukwu, Hallett and Kennelly offer different skill sets. Hallett’s versatility is his calling card. He showcased far more than expected during camp, logging playing time at safety, nickel and outside corner, while flashing playmaking ability at all three spots.
Kennelly, meanwhile, is more of a traditional safety, but with the size and high-end athleticism to play deep or in the box. He’s going to require some patience as he continues to develop after making the jump from D-II. Still, there’s more upside, both as a defender and special teamer, than Hallett offers.
While nearly every other NFL franchise plays three preseason matchups, the Lions will be taking part in a fourth when they host the Houston Texans at Ford Field on Saturday at 1 p.m. The silver lining is that it provides an extra opportunity to evaluate a roster that’s gotten a little deeper and more talented each year of general manager Brad Holmes’ five-year tenure.
On Thursday, ahead of the team’s joint practice with the Texans, coach Dan Campbell was asked about the difficult roster decisions ahead.
“For sure there will be tough decisions,” Campbell said. “I can think of three right now, just off the top of my head, and there are a couple more than that. ...It’s going to be really, really tough. But that’s part of the game. That’s part of this whole process.”
Campbell expected Thursday's practice and Saturday’s game to provide some clarity. With that in mind, here’s where our eyes will be focused when the sides meet again at Ford Field, with a handful of jobs hanging in the balance.
Hooker’s composure
It’s been a disastrous preseason for quarterback Hendon Hooker, the once Heisman front-runner who the Lions snagged in the third round of the 2023 NFL draft.Hooker has performed well on the practice field, showing undeniable growth within Detroit’s scheme. Regardless, he hasn’t been able to port that success to the games, where he’s cobbled together a dismal 36.1 passer rating and lost two fumbles.
The biggest issue has been Hooker’s pocket presence. He’s occasionally reacted to phantom pressure, leading to premature bailings. Other times, he hasn’t felt the defender before he arrives. Each scenario contributed to one of his fumbles.
Hooker has already lost the backup job to Kyle Allen. The question has morphed into whether the team can justify keeping three QBs or if this will be Hooker's final game in a Lions uniform. It’s not too late, but his offseason promise can’t be limited to the practice field. He needs to show something, anything, during game action.
Five, six or seven receivers?
Despite some speculation that Tim Patrick’s job isn’t secure, it would be pretty surprising if the Lions move on from the veteran who perfectly filled the No. 3 receiver role a year ago. Yeah, he had a rocky camp. Regardless, the conversation should have quieted after a productive week, including some big-time catches against the Texans in joint practice.If Patrick is in, that means the Lions will have at least five receivers on the 53-man roster. How many more can they reasonably fit?
Seventh-round pick Dominic Lovett and undrafted rookie Jackson Meeks are both deserving. Truly.
Lovett has been more up-and-down, in part because he missed time with an abdominal injury. However, the Lions targeted the former Missouri and Georgia standout on Day 3 of the draft for a reason. There’s some sanding needed to smooth the rough corners of his game, but there’s clear offensive and special teams upside.
Meeks, meanwhile, offers size, contested-catch ability, premium run blocking and versatility on special teams. But the reality is he’s earned a job through his preseason performance, hauling in 10 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns the past two games.
As one of Holmes’ draft picks, Lovett carries an inherent edge. Still, it will probably be easier to sneak a 185-pound receiver who was more of a gadget player in college through waivers than the 6-foot-2, 218-pound Meeks. There’s a hunger around the league for receiving talent right now. As much as we admittedly tend to overinflate the value of guys we see every day, it’s difficult to imagine every other NFL GM declining to put a claim in on Meeks if he becomes available.
Dropping anchor
After Graham Glasgow had to leave Thursday’s practice with a lower leg injury, the backup center situation quickly came into the spotlight.Since the Lions wisely locked rookie Tate Ratledge into right guard, the position he played in college, it’s been a three-man competition between Kingley Eguakun, Michael Niese, and late veteran addition, Trystan Colon.
Despite holding a roster spot last season, Niese has seemingly fallen behind Eguakun and Colon in the race. Then, Colon suffered an elbow injury that has kept him shelved for the past two weeks. With his path clear to the job, Eguakun has been hit or miss. The biggest concern is his play strength. He’s a little undersized at 305 pounds, and it shows up regularly when he tries to anchor against bigger, stronger defensive tackles like Miami’s Zeek Biggers.
Even in matchups against teammate Brodric Martin, who has been a disappointment overall, Eguakun often looks like he’s fighting for his life in one-on-one reps. A clean sheet against the Texans on Saturday would go a long way toward quelling concerns about his preparedness to be the next man up if Glasgow goes down, whether that's for five snaps or five weeks.
Please hold, Za’Darius
Even before rookie Ahmed Hassanein suffered a pectoral injury that will likely sideline him for several weeks, an overwhelming percentage of the fan base has been clamoring for the team to re-sign veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith.That’s still in play, but while the Lions afforded the soon-to-be 33-year-old Smith the opportunity to skip training camp, the team was able to get a long look at some of its younger edge-rushing options. And, in many ways, Nate Lynn and Isaac Ukwu didn’t disappoint with their month-long auditions.
They’re different style defenders. However, both offer something in the pass-rush department. Lynn is a bender who threatens the edge in a hurry with his first-step quickness. Additionally, he’s showcased a little bit of positional flexibility, sliding inside on obvious passing downs, similar to what he did at William & Mary before signing with the Lions as an undrafted free agent last year.
Ukwu, meanwhile, is a 270-pound pocket-crusher who has shown a viable long-arm move. He plays with the style the Lions prefer opposite Aidan Hutchinson. What Ukwu lacks is the consistency the Lions would like to see at that spot, even if they’re only looking for someone to play 10-15 snaps per week.
Safety valve
One other spot presumably up for grabs is a 10th job in the secondary. Entering camp, it felt like it was Dan Jackson’s to lose. However, the seventh-round draft pick suffered a season-ending injury earlier this month.Now, the choice has boiled down to Loren Strickland, Erick Hallett and undrafted rookie Ian Kennelly.
Strickland had an early lead, getting the start in the Hall of Fame game. However, Hallett and Kennelly have more recently netted first-team reps when there’s been an injury ahead of them on the depth chart.
Like Lynn and Ukwu, Hallett and Kennelly offer different skill sets. Hallett’s versatility is his calling card. He showcased far more than expected during camp, logging playing time at safety, nickel and outside corner, while flashing playmaking ability at all three spots.
Kennelly, meanwhile, is more of a traditional safety, but with the size and high-end athleticism to play deep or in the box. He’s going to require some patience as he continues to develop after making the jump from D-II. Still, there’s more upside, both as a defender and special teamer, than Hallett offers.
Unless he lights it up and shows some kind of pocket awareness, its going to be hard to justify keeping Hooker as the 3rd QB. He simply has not been very good and there are too many quality players at the end of the roster competing for spots. There will be some quality players cut.
It's safe to say that the streak of UDFA's making the roster will continue. Jackson Meeks should be a lock and there could be a couple more. Also, if I recall correctly, Meeks got a hefty signing bonus. He has been very impressive.
It's safe to say that the streak of UDFA's making the roster will continue. Jackson Meeks should be a lock and there could be a couple more. Also, if I recall correctly, Meeks got a hefty signing bonus. He has been very impressive.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
Yes, they have a lot of WRs that belong on the roster ahead of Hooker this year.
Leroy Hoard
Footballguy
If Hooker makes the team, it won't be because they aren't sure about Kyle Allen. He just dropped a perfect dime to Teslaa for a TD.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
not watching but on the tracker I see Quintez Cephus just had aTD for the Texans
8 receptions since 2021, didn’t realize he was still around
8 receptions since 2021, didn’t realize he was still around
