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2025 Detroit Lions: 0-0 HOF Game on tape, as DC said..."We got work to do" (25 Viewers)

A Lions player to watch from every position group when team hosts Miami for a preseason game this afternoon​


Allen Park — This week’s joint practices between the Detroit Lions and Miami Dolphins were eye-opening.

The Lions’ offense, which had battled inconsistency throughout camp, looked far more like the unit that set the franchise record for scoring a year ago, racking up touchdowns in bunches.

Meanwhile, Detroit’s aggressive and promising defense validated some of what we’d been seeing and writing about prior to the shared practices, easily getting the better of a Miami offense that admittedly was down some key pieces.

Joint practices are designed, more than anything, to get your starters the work lost by holding them out of preseason games, in a more controlled environment. The backups take a back seat during those two days, with fewer reps, particularly in full-team settings. The preseason matchup on Saturday will be their time to shine.

With that in mind, here’s who we’ll be focusing on when the Lions and Dolphins meet at Ford Field this Saturday at 1 p.m.

Quarterback​

Player to watch: Hendon Hooker

It’s overly dramatic to suggest Hooker is on the ropes. However, the incumbent backup has unquestionably conceded pole position to veteran Kyle Allen in the race to retain the job.

The practice performances of the two QBs have been close to level. Nonetheless, Allen has been far more impressive in the two preseason games, particularly a 7-for-8 showing against Atlanta that included a pair of touchdown tosses.

Hooker desperately needs to stem the tide against the Dophins to avoid the gap widening to a gulf entering the stretch run of camp. He needs to transfer the improved processing and intermediate accuracy he’s demonstrated in training camp. Happy feet, premature bailing from the pocket, and a paltry 3.5 yards per pass attempt aren’t going to cut it in this competition.

Running back​

Player to watch: Sione Vaki

Respectfully, we’ve seen enough of Craig Reynolds this preseason. We know what the veteran has to offer, and you should feel good about the veteran’s three-down ability as the first man off the bench if something were to happen to Jahmyr Gibbs or David Montgomery.

I’m ready to see Vaki shoulder the backfield load after missing the first two preseason games with a nagging injury. Possessing dynamic athleticism, the converted safety has shown through limited practice reps that his skillset as a ball carrier is rounding a corner. He's displaying better feel for his blocks and patience when running between the tackles.

Vaki’s upside as a change-of-pace back remains lofty. He needs to earn the coaching staff’s trust, and the final two preseason games offer a premium opportunity to do that.

Wide receiver​

Player to watch: Jackson Meeks

I fully understand that Isaac TeSlaa might be the main attraction on Saturday. Rightfully so. The third-round pick has been a quick study, with rapidly improving fundamentals in all aspects of the position. That said, I’m not sure what more we’ll learn about his trajectory in this matchup.

Meeks, on the other hand, is pushing to make Detroit’s roster decisions uncomfortable. Against Atlanta, he overcame an early drop to catch three passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, he mauled as a run blocker and is contributing on multiple special teams.

If Meeks keeps his foot on the gas, the Lions might have to consider keeping seven receivers on the 53-man roster. It’s not as unusual as you might think. Seven teams kept seven receivers on their initial 53 a year ago.

Tight end​

Player to watch: Zach Horton

Sam LaPorta’s injury doesn’t impact Horton’s playing time in this game, since LaPorta wasn’t going to suit up, regardless. Still, it did allow Horton to see some work with the starting offense during the second day of joint practices with the Dolphins.

The undrafted rookie remains in the mix for Detroit’s third tight end job and feels close to a lock for a practice squad slot if he doesn’t make the 53. Nearly all of the block-first option's snaps have come attached to the tackle or in the backfield. He’s also seen work on both kickoff and punt return.

He put up some decent receiving numbers in college, but hasn’t logged a catch through the first two preseason games. He got open in the end zone at practice on Thursday, but Hooker misfired high on the target. Some pass-game contributions against Miami could bolster Horton’s chances.

Offensive line​


Player to watch: Kingsley Eguakun

Eguakun was losing ground in the backup center competition to veteran Trystan Colon before he suffered an elbow injury against Atlanta. The team didn’t put him on injured reserve, but coach Dan Campbell said Colon will be out “a while.”

The injury opens the door for Eguakun to regain the momentum he had earlier this offseason. He was undeniably better against Atlanta than in the Hall of Fame game, but he also faced a lesser caliber of competition coming off the bench last week. Furthermore, he wasn’t able to build on that outing in joint practices, often getting overwhelmed by the power of the Dolphins’ defensive tackles.

Even with Colon sidelined, Eguakun has to fend off Michael Niese, who made the roster out of camp and was active all 17 games last season.
 

Edge​

Player to watch: Nate Lynn

Campbell praised the work of all three of Detroit’s young edge rushers this week — Lynn, Isaac Ukwu and Mitchell Agude — although Lynn appears to be pulling ahead in the competition for a potential roster spot thanks to his pass-rush ability.

Logging just 16 defensive snaps, Lynn made his presence felt in Atlanta, generating four pressures and tallying a sack. The 6-foot-3, 260-pounder is also holding up decently against the run.

Maybe the discussion ends up moot, with a fifth edge-rushing job ultimately going to a veteran free agent, namely Za’Darius Smith. But who is to say another couple of strong pass-rushing performances gives the Lions pause, affording them the opportunity to go into the season with a younger, cheaper option in that situational role?

Defensive tackle​

Player to watch: Brodric Martin

Martin has been buried a few times over this offseason. It’s difficult to justify keeping three nose tackles on the roster. With DJ Reader and Roy Lopez clearly ahead of Martin on the depth chart, no one is really sure where the former third-round pick would fit in Detroit’s 2025 plan.

Things were made worse for Martin’s chances after he missed a few practices with an injury. However, he managed to suit up against the Falcons and had a clear impact as both a run defender and pass rusher in a dozen snaps.

That game getting cut short likely limited Martin’s opportunity to make a bigger splash. We’ll have to see if he can recover to stack performances against the Dolphins.

Linebacker​

Player to watch: Anthony Pittman

Pittman might be in trouble, especially if the Lions don’t keep seven linebackers this year to address depth elsewhere on the roster.

At best, Pittman is seventh on the positional depth chart, behind starters Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes, as well as top backups Grant Stuard, Trevor Nowaske and Zach Cunningham. Pittman was likely in line for more late-game snaps against the Falcons, but ended up seeing only two reps with the game stopped early.

The Wayne State product has spent most of his career with the Lions. Still, they let him walk in free agency in 2024, only bringing him back when injuries decimated the depth chart late in the season. In those three contests, he saw just 15 defensive snaps. His biggest contributions have always come on special teams. However, the team is loaded with quality performers within those groups, requiring Pittman to show more to stick.

Cornerback​

Player to watch: Nick Whiteside

A midcamp addition from the UFL, Whiteside has made a dozen plays on the ball since arriving, including an interception in joint practices. The 6-foot-1, 200-pounder looks the part and has played his way into a handful of first-team reps with Terrion Arnold banged up, Rock Ya-Sin dabbling at safety, and Ennis Rakestraw landing on season-ending injured reserve.

One Dolphins writer said they’d definitely suggest the team put in a waiver claim if the Lions let Whiteside go as part of final cuts. That’s not a lock. With Rakestraw’s injury, there’s room on the roster for another corner. Erick Hallet has been at the front of that mix, but Whiteside’s playmaking can’t be ignored.

It’s also a positive sign for Whiteside that his special teams snaps sharply increased against Atlanta. The Lions are trying to get a grasp on all the things he can bring to the table on Sundays.

Safety​

Player to watch: Ian Kennelly

While there are no questions or concerns regarding the top of the depth chart, the backup situation at safety remains fluid.

Avonte Maddox had been the presumptive third option. However, he’s been largely repping at nickel recently, coinciding with the Lions testing Ya-Sin at safety. As for the young collective battling for a spot, it's thinned from five options to two with Hallett moving to the corner, rookie Dan Jackson going on injured reserve, and Morice Norris shelved by the concussion that saw him taken off the field by ambulance in Atlanta last week.

That leaves Loren Strickland and Kennelly as the last two standing from that group. Strickland is a little more polished, given that he has a year of NFL experience under his belt. Plus, he’s known for his quality contributions on special teams. Still, Kennelly’s size and athleticism might be too much for the Lions to pass up, even if he’ll require some behind-the-scenes development before he’s ready for a regular-season role.
 
Taped the game but like the first 2, not sure the value in watching it. Sounds like Allen outplayed Hooker again, and the rookie WRs had a good day (along with Vaki - judging by the box score.)

Hoping Hassanein is OK.

Rapid Rewind: Allen shines again, but Lions' backups cough up halftime lead in loss to Dolphins​


Detroit — Behind a second straight strong showing by backup quarterback Kyle Allen, the Detroit Lions took a 14-7 lead at the half of Saturday’s preseason game with the Miami Dolphins. Unfortunately for the Lions, the team’s backups couldn’t hold the edge, ultimately dropping a 24-17decision at Ford Field.

Allen shook off a trio of shaky throws, all high, to lead two touchdown drives, including one shortly before the half. The veteran connected on touchdown passes of 11 and 18 yards in the second quarter to put the Lions ahead at the break.

The Dolphins took the lead early in the fourth quarter, and even though the Lions were able to tie it with a short field goal following a turnover, they never led again.

The Dolphins seized the lead for good with a six-play, 60-yard drive to open the fourth quarter and capped the scoring with a short field goal shortly after the two-minute warning.

Detroit had a chance to tie the game or take the lead with a two-point conversion. However, quarterback Hendon Hooker was intercepted after leading the offense into the red zone in the closing seconds.

Starters​

Offense: Kyle Allen, Craig Reynolds, Isaac TeSlaa, Jackson Meeks, Tom Kennedy, Shane Zylstra, Jamarco Jones, Netane Muti, Kingsley Eguakun, Kayode Awosika, Dan Skipper

Defense: Keith Cooper, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Chris Smith, Pat O’Connor, Grant Stuard, Zach Cunningham, Trevor Nowaske, Nick Whiteside, Erick Hallett, Ian Kennelly, Rock Ya-Sin

Game ball​

Allen, Meeks and TeSlaa share the game ball with the veteran quarterback posting another strong day with four completions and a touchdown to each of the rookie receivers.

Scoring summary​

First quarter

● 1:18 — A big series for Western Michigan alum Dee Eskridge, who converted a third-and-12 with a 27-yard gain on a receiver screen to beat Detroit’s blitz, followed by a 12-yard catch-and-run score on a shallow cross two plays later, snagging a ball behind him and plowing through Ya-Sin at the goal line. DOLPHINS 7, LIONS 0

Second quarter

● 7:00 — After a clunky start, Allen settled down to complete all three of his throws on a run-heavy, 10-play scoring drive. After chain-moving tosses to Meeks and TeSlaa, Meeks found paydirt on a fourth-down snap from Miami’s 11-yard line, breaking toward the sideline on a short out route, using Zystra’s veteran pattern to disrupt the coverage. LIONS 7, DOLPHINS 7

● 0:30 — Taking over after a fourth-down stop deep in their own territory, the Lions successfully executed the two-minute drill, driving 83 yards in nine plays. Allen connected with TeSlaa on fourth down to extend the series, then found the rookie receiver on a stutter-and-go that TeSlaa went up and pulled down over cornerback Cornell Armstrong in the end zone for an 18-yard score. LIONS 14, DOLPHINS 7

Third quarter

● 10:42 — Inheriting a short field after a quality punt return, the Dolphins needed just four plays to drive the remaining 36 yards for a matching score. On third-and-8, quarterback Quinn Ewers found Theo Wease Jr. for a 15-yard touchdown. The receiver ran a slant, besting the coverage of cornerback Tyson Russell. LIONS 14, DOLPHINS 14

● 4:53 — Taking over in field-goal range after a muffed punt, the Lions handed the ball off six straight snaps before Hendon Hooker dropped back on third-and-6 from the Miami 10-yard line. With nothing open, the quarterback scrambled around the left edge for a touchdown. However, the score was nullified by a holding infraction against Giovanni Manu, leaving the Lions to settle for a short Jake Bates kick. LIONS 17, DOLPHINS 14

Fourth quarter

● 12:16 — Wease continued to give the Lions’ third-string defense trouble, getting behind linebacker Ezekiel Turner on play-action for a 23-yard gain to open the series before breaking free of cornerback Allan George's coverage on a scramble drill for a go-ahead, 8-yard touchdown. DOLPHINS 21, LIONS 17

● 1:50 —After stalling out in the red zone, Miami bypassed going for Detroit's jugular. Instead of going for it on fourth down from the 3-yard line, they took the points with a 22-yard field goal. DOLPHINS 24, LIONS 17

Turnovers​

● Dophins punt returner A.J. Henning muffed a third-quarter punt, which was recovered by Lions receiver Dominic Lovett.

● Driving the Lions into the red zone in the closing seconds, Hooker’s pass was intercepted by slot cornerback Ethan Robinson, who jumped in front of the throw while blitzing.

Key stats​

● Allen misfired high on three throws and didn’t miss another one, connecting on 14-of-17 for 124 yards, two touchdowns and a 136.3 passer rating.

Playing behind the team’s third-string offensive line — a group featuring two players who signed this week — Hooker struggled. He completed just two passes for 14 yards while eating two sacks on his first seven dropbacks.

Hooker was sharper during a two-minute drive at the end of the game, completing four throws before he was intercepted.

● With Reynolds having multiple runs negated by flags, Sione Vaki ended up leading Detroit’s backfield in the first half, netting 30 yards on five carries. Jacob Saylors, handling most of the workload in the second half, gained 39 yards on 13 carries.

● Meeks led the Lions with seven receptions for 93 yards, followed by TeSlaa’s four grabs for 41 yards.

● Isaac Ukwu had an early sack taken off the board by a penalty away from the ball. However, the second-year edge rusher found his way into the backfield again for a drive-stopping sack on fourth down in the red zone.

Ezekiel Turner paced the defense with nine tackles, including one for a loss.

Injuries​

● Rookie defensive end Ahmed Hassanein exited after getting violently tossed to the ground during a third-quarter run play. He immediately clutched at his shoulder/pec and was taken directly to the locker room for further evaluation.

Next game​

The Lions will stay home and close out the preseason against the Houston Texans next Saturday at 1 p.m. The two teams will conduct a joint practice two days before the contest.
 
Just a couple notes from the Miami game. Allen definitely is the #2 QB as of now. He made some nice plays after sailing a couple early in the game. Getting better all the time.

Hooker was not that. He made a couple solid plays that were called back by penalties, but overall looks like someone that will end up on the practice squad (can't see him not clearing waivers).

Those penalties were an overall problem for the day, it will give Campbell & company plenty to key on in practice the this week.

And finally, #15 Grant Stuard is a fun player to watch. Special teams demon at the minimum.
 
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Leroy Hoard said:
Just a couple notes from the Miami game. Allen definitely is the #2 QB as of now. He made some nice plays after sailing a couple early in the game. Getting better all the time.

Hooker was not that. He made a couple solid plays that were called back by penalties, but overall looks like someone that will end up on the practice squad (can't see him not clearing waivers).

Those penalties were an overall problem for the day, it will give Campbell & company plenty to key on in practice the this week.

And finally, #15 Grant Stuart is a fun player to watch. Special teams demon at the minimum.
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Stuard, although you likely got autocorrected. He’s a special teamer and maybe LB4 or 5 until Rodríguez comes back in November.
 
Hey, @BobbyLayne, since you're like our own personal Paul Lukas for this thread, any explanation on why the Lions are back to two-tone uniforms in the preseason? They've worn silver pants for both home games and blue pants for the Atlanta game, after going almost entirely monochromatic last year (IIRC the only time they didn't was the TB game, which they lost. Every other one was either all blue, all white or all black).

Gotta say, after spending years lamenting the monochromatic trend across the league, I've grown to like the Lions with that look, to the point where it feels weird to see them with the color combos they've had for nearly my entire life. Not-the-same-ol'-Lions, indeed
 
ignatiusjreilly said:
Hey, @BobbyLayne, since you're like our own personal Paul Lukas for this thread, any explanation on why the Lions are back to two-tone uniforms in the preseason? They've worn silver pants for both home games and blue pants for the Atlanta game, after going almost entirely monochromatic last year (IIRC the only time they didn't was the TB game, which they lost. Every other one was either all blue, all white or all black).

Gotta say, after spending years lamenting the monochromatic trend across the league, I've grown to like the Lions with that look, to the point where it feels weird to see them with the color combos they've had for nearly my entire life. Not-the-same-ol'-Lions, indeed
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Not sure, but I agree the two-tones look sharp. I’m kind of over the blueberries and marshmallows.

I know a little about the process. Jerseys which they intend to wear for home games are selected in June. It’s decided by to Campbell & Holmes Rod Wood. But they can switch to alternates (black or throwbacks) 4 times. That’s a new rule this year, used to be 3.

As for pants / what combo they wear, that’s up to a committee of veterans. I know Alex Anzalone is one of the players but not sure who else. The equipment manager polls them the week of the game via a group text.

The league rules state the home team decides what color they’re wearing - only the Cowboys and Dolphins wear white at home - and the visiting team has to wear the opposite.

I’ll ask Justin Rogers in the SubStack chat if he has any insight. He’s pretty good about trying to find answers if he doesn’t know.
 
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Read that Campbell said Hassanein will be out for a minute. Didn’t elaborate if it was a pectoral or shoulder, probably won’t know more until next week.
 
Justin does not disappoint:

I haven't put much thought into it. I wouldn't be surprised if some of the folks in marketing and branding were behind the decisions, more than the players, who typically choose the pants/socks combo after Campbell/Wood choose the jersey. All the jerseys are already selected and filed with the league. Pants are decided week of.
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Zeppelin said:
I think it's going to be really hard keeping Jackson Meeks off this team.
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Beat writers keep asking how do they keep 7 WRs? ARSB, Jamo, TeSlaa, TP, Kalif, rookies Dominic Lovett & Meeks.

Do they keep one less OL, DL, or LB?

Well, 2 QBs instead of 3 would do the trick.

(2021 season and the last two playoff rosters they kept 3….2022-24 regular seasons it was 2.)

Pretty clear that 9 days before final cuts, Kyle Allen has earned the backup role. 158.3 and 136.3 passer rating the last 2 games. He’s 29 (only 2 years older than HH) so he could remain the backup until they draft another one toward the end of Goff’s extension.
 

As Kyle Allen cements lead in backup QB race, here are the paths Lions can take with Hendon Hooker​


Detroit — Let me start this column by telling you how I believed things would play out when the Detroit Lions signed veteran quarterback Kyle Allen in free agency this offseason.

I saw Allen as a means to an end, not a solution. I thought of his addition as a symbolic fire being lit under the *** of Hendon Hooker, to tap into the returning QB's competitive drive and push him to new heights more quickly. Initially, I considered Allen a minimal threat to unseat Detroit’s incumbent backup.

My stance softened a tad when I watched Allen’s film, particularly his preseason performance with the Steelers last year. Here's what I wrote following the tape study:

“The Allen that showed up last preseason, earning a roster spot as a third QB on Pittsburgh’s roster, is capable of pushing Hendon Hooker this offseason.

“Yes, it was the preseason, where the schemes are vanilla and the defensive talent is mostly backups, but Allen showed good command of the Steelers’ offense, had significantly fewer issues with the placement of his throws than he did in the two starts in 2022, and displayed toughness and mobility.”
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Still, through last month’s Hall of Fame Game, my opinion remained unchanged: This was Hooker’s job, and it was only a matter of time before he proved that.

Two weeks later, I’m tapping my chest like a defensive back who blew an assignment. My bad.

To be clear, what you’ve seen in the preseason isn’t reflective of what we’ve watched daily on the practice field this offseason. In my writings, radio interviews, and casual conversations, I confidently proclaimed Hooker was a vastly improved quarterback from last training camp. He was making better (and quicker) decisions, his accuracy was significantly better — to all depths — and he undeniably had more zip on his throws than Allen.

I stand by the assessment.

Hooker and Allen’s performances in practice, where they’ve rotated snaps with the second- and third-team offenses, have been relatively even. And, like the runner in baseball, the tie goes to the incumbent, particularly when you’ve invested multiple years into his development and have him under contract for a season beyond this one.

But the preseason has revealed a gap between the two that practices hadn’t. Allen is unquestionably superior, more comfortably executing an offensive scheme, which he explained after Saturday's game as feeling like it equips him with “answers on every play.”

It certainly seems like he has the cheat sheet memorized, and he’s acing the test. After throwing a couple of interceptions in the Hall of Fame Game, including one that was egregious, he’s posted a near-perfect quarterback rating in the past two matchups.

Hooker, meanwhile, has looked lost. The only steps he's taken are backward — with his processing, accuracy and ball security. It’s genuinely baffling to know this is the same guy who has been slinging the rock around with confidence on the practice field. Is it possible we underestimated the power of the red jersey, which prohibits the quarterback from being hit in practice?

Given the outcome to date, coach Dan Campbell didn’t shy away from stating where the competition stands with one preseason game remaining.

“If you had to go in with the (No.) two right now, ‘Who would you trust more?’ Yeah, I would trust Kyle more because he’s proven more after these two games,” Campbell said.

Which leads us to the important question: Where do the Lions go from here?

Well, there are a few ways this plays out if we assume Allen doesn’t fall flat on his face down the stretch.

First, the Lions can keep three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster. The last time they did that to open a season was 2021, when they held on to both Tim Boyle and David Blough behind Jared Goff.

They’ve also rostered three for parts of the past two seasons, when Hooker returned from a torn ACL as a rookie in 2023, and when Teddy Bridgewater was added as an insurance policy for last year’s postseason.

It’s hardly out of the question, but keeping three means you’re cutting somewhere else. Maybe that’s a 10th offensive lineman or defensive back, or perhaps it’s a seventh receiver such as Jackson Meeks or Dominic Lovett.

Why would the Lions do this? The team has barely needed their backup to play since trading for Goff.

Well, we know general manager Brad Holmes loathes giving up on his draft picks prematurely. And given the progress shown in practice, the team could justifiably still believe in Hooker’s developmental arc.

Plus, the assurance of having a cheap backup who knows the system carries appeal when your starter is scheduled to have a nearly $70 million cap hit in 2026. Yes, that will probably be restructured, but the point is Goff is expensive.

Alternatively, the Lions can move on. Obviously, bringing Hooker back as a member of the practice squad would be an ideal compromise. However, there’s no way you can realistically bank on him clearing waivers.

It's easy to imagine a QB-needy team willing to make the low-risk, low-cost investment in a player who had some really great college tape before the knee injury. Teams weighing the flyer could be further encouraged by what the Packers were able to get out of another recently discarded former third-round pick, Malik Willis. It just takes one GM or coach to believe they can do a better job with Hooker than Detroit.

I wouldn't be surprised if multiple teams feel this way. Sure, we didn't see any quarterbacks claimed after final cuts the past two years. But surely Hooker has more upside than Kellen Mond or Ian Book did in 2023, when they were plucked off waivers.

This leads us to a final option: The Lions could see if anyone would be willing to trade for Hooker.

To be clear, you shouldn’t expect much in return. You might not get more than a seventh-rounder, maybe with conditions attached that could bump it to a sixth. If the Lions were willing to give up on Hooker’s development before his third season, you shouldn’t anticipate others banging down the door to acquire him. The reason you might be able to get anything is a team is intrigued enough that they don’t want to lose out on a claim based on waiver order.

Going back to Willis, he only cost the Packers a seventh-rounder to acquire.

Assuming the Lions surrender Hooker, either in a trade or via waivers, where does that leave the future of the backup spot? Realistically, there's nothing to say Allen, 29, couldn’t hold it down beyond this season. Unless he is forced into action as an injury replacement in 2025, it's unlikely his salary demands will sharply increase beyond the veteran minimum he commanded as a free agent this offseason.

Of course, the Lions could also take another stab at the position via the draft.

That said, finding a quarterback in Round 3 or beyond — where the team would likely be comfortable investing given Goff is under contract through 2028 — is a minefield. For every Dak Prescott or Brock Purdy, there are more than a dozen guys who amount to nothing.

From 2015-24, 56 quarterbacks have been drafted in the third round or later. Five have won 10 or more games as a starter, including Jacoby Brissett and Trevor Siemian. Hooker, who has attempted nine passes, has the seventh-best passer rating of that group.

Maybe that positional hit rate, or lack thereof, is another reason to exhibit a little more patience with Hooker, carrying him as a third QB this season.

We won't have to speculate long. Teams will trim their rosters to 53 in under two weeks, on Aug. 26. Until then, Hooker has a little more time to state his case, with next Saturday's exhibition game potentially being his final test.

I didn’t anticipate the Lions would be here with this decision, and maybe they didn’t either, but they are and must decide whether continued patience is justified.
 

Stock report: Lions' rookie receivers keep rising, backup QBs remain on opposite trajectories​


Detroit — Here are the players trending up, down or holding steady coming out of Saturday’s preseason game with the Miami Dolphins.

Stock up: Quarterback Kyle Allen​

Allen is grabbing the brass ring. The veteran joined the Lions as something of an afterthought; more a device to push Hendon Hooker than someone who could unseat the incumbent. Allen continues to make a decisive case that he’s the man who should back up Jared Goff.

It wasn’t as clean as last week’s showing, with a few misfires in the opening quarter. Still, Allen settled down to complete 14-of-17 for 124 yards and two touchdowns. He now has a passer rating of 147.9 over the past two games.

Regardless of how close things have appeared on the practice field between the two contenders for the role, if the games carry extra weight and Detroit runs a true meritocracy, there’s no debate about the winner.

Stock down: Quarterback Hendon Hooker​

If you’re looking for excuses, Hooker was playing behind a third-string offensive line that included two players who signed this week and a struggling undrafted rookie at a new position. That’s a recipe for disaster, and the QB certainly dealt with his fair share of pressure.

Still, you’d hope Hooker could make at least a little lemonade with the lemons. Instead, he ate the same number of sacks as he had completions through his first five series, before he led a reasonably effective two-minute drive that ended with an unbelievable interception.

Hooker has been a dud in all three preseason games, essentially handing the job to Allen.

Treading water: Linebacker Grant Stuard​

Stuard is a whirling dervish every time he steps on the field. He’s at his best coming downhill, with his quick first step and willingness to deliver a big hit. He played the run well against the Dolphins, including a forced fumble.

But Stuard is shakier in coverage, in part due to that same aggression. He can be prone to getting sucked too far up on play-action, and despite having plus speed, he doesn’t always have enough to recover, which also showed up on Saturday.

Stock up: Wide receiver Jackson Meeks​

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to figure out how the Lions can justify leaving Meeks off the roster. The undrafted rookie continues to be a reliable performer on the practice field and in the preseason games, pacing the offense in receiving yards for a second straight week.

Meeks runs good routes, is quicker than his poor 40-yard dash suggested, and he is an aggressive blocker in the run game. There’s long-term potential here, and it’s not worth the Lions testing whether he’ll clear waivers and make it back to the practice squad. Find the room by trimming the fat somewhere else.

Stock up: Wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa​

TeSlaa’s stock has been on a bull run all offseason and that continued against the Dolphins with an excellent 18-yard touchdown grab in a contested situation.

Stock down: Defensive tackle Brodric Martin​

In his eagerness to prove he can make plays and deserves to stay on the roster, the former third-round pick committed two pre-snap penalties, one for lining up in the neutral zone and another for encroachment.

He ended up not appearing on the box after his one tackle was wiped out by one of those flags.

Stock up: Edge Isaac Ukwu​

Ukwu has flashed a few times during the preseason, but didn’t have much to show for it, recording one tackle and one QB pressure in 39 defensive snaps. His long arm rush move can be an effective, pocket-crushing weapon, but he showed a little bit of bend on a fourth-down sack in the red zone that squashed a Dolphins’ drive.

Ukwu had a second sack, but it was wiped out by a facemask penalty against Stuard away from the ball. Regardless, that should show up on film as a win for the second-year edge, bolstering his case for a roster spot that might have opened up with an injury to Ahmed Hassanein.

Stock down: Pace of play​

While not going over the merits of each of the 26 flags the officiating crew threw on Saturday, the amount of laundry made the difficult task of watching preseason football that much more daunting.

Four of those flags got picked up, but that left 22 penalties in the contest, completely upending the flow of the game. On top of that, the virtual measurement the league is implementing to replace the chain gang proved to be slower and clunkier than anticipated. Hopefully, the league irons out the wrinkles with that process, making it as efficient and popular as replay assist, which rapidly overturns incorrect calls on the field without requiring a coach's challenge.

Treading water: Edge Nate Lynn​

Lynn saw plenty of action, but couldn’t affect the quarterback the way he’s been doing in recent weeks, logging zero pressure on the pocket. Regardless, he played the run well and came up with a tackle for a loss on a pass play that forced a punt.

Stock up: Cornerback Erick Hallett​

Hallett was everywhere, delivering big hits and breaking up three passes. It was a much-needed performance for the young defensive back who has struggled to maintain some early-camp momentum that had him taking first-team reps as an injury replacement.

His biggest breakup came in the end zone in the closing minutes, forcing Miami to settle for a field goal that left the door open for a Detroit rally. On the negative side, Hallett should have snagged an interception on an underthrown deep ball in the first half, but he let it slip through his hands.

Stock down: Wide receiver Tom Kennedy​

Typically Mr. Reliable in the preseason, Kennedy wasn’t his generally sharp self. He was flagged for holding in the first quarter, negating a long Craig Reynolds run, then couldn’t snag an admittedly high ball from Allen that hit the receiver in the hands.

Kennedy finished with one catch for 8 yards. Not the type of night you’re looking for when trying to make a case you deserve a job over Meeks or seventh-round pick Dominic Lovett.

Stock up: Sione Vaki​

It was a positive that Vaki finally got on the field after a being hindered by a nagging hamstring injury. Still, he did a little something with his playing time, churning out 30 yards on five carries.

More impressively, and in line with what we know about his skill set, he forced a fumble on a punt return with a big hit. Unfortunately, Reynolds wasn’t able to jump on the loose ball.

Stock down: Young safeties​

Undrafted rookie Ian Kennelly got the start and played a ton, but didn’t do much with his opportunities, recording just two tackles and appearing out of position on multiple plays.

Loren Strickland was better, but it’s hardly a good sign that he didn’t get into the game until the second half. Remember, this is a guy who started the Hall of Fame game for the Lions.

There’s a realistic possibility the Lions don’t keep either of the young options on the 53-man roster, leaning into the versatility of veterans Rock-Ya Sin and Avonte Maddox to backstop the starting tandem of Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph.

Stock up: Linebacker Ezekiel Turner​

Turner has been consistently repping with the third-team defense, but he’s also been stuffing the stat sheet. Against the Dolphins, he had a team-high nine tackles, including one behind the line of scrimmage.

Add that activeness to his established special teams ability, and he’s got a better shot at making the roster as a seventh linebacker than Anthony Pittman.

Stock down: Edge Ahmed Hassanein​

Hassanein suffered a nasty-looking injury when he was violently tossed to the ground in the third quarter. After the game, coach Dan Campbell said the rookie edge rusher will likely be out a while. More medical testing will be required, but it’s easy to believe this one could land the sixth-round pick on injured reserve.

Hassanein is a player who needs every possible rep. Whether he misses a couple of weeks or the entirety of his rookie season, it will stunt his development.

Stock up: Cornerback Luq Barcoo​

Arriving in Detroit a little more than two weeks ago, Barcoo made a memorable impression in his Lions debut, breaking up two passes. Not a bad way to introduce yourself to the fan base.

Fun fact: Barcoo has been on eight different NFL rosters since going undrafted out of San Diego State in 2020.
 
Leroy Hoard said:
ignatiusjreilly said:
Leroy Hoard said:
For years Lions fans have asked the question "What exactly does Rod Wood do?". Well now we know, and I for one will sleep better tonight having known.
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Someone has to wear the pants in that relationship
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Rod Wood is one of the few people where his porn name would be the same as his real name.
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I was at a fund raising event last year and Rod Wood was one of the guest.

Rod was a nice enough guy but was the prototype uncool uncle or should I say grandfather now who is always trying to act cool but just can't pull it off. Rod in football terms only woke up on third base and thought he hit a triple. Handling the Ford family finances does have perks.
 
Leroy Hoard said:
ignatiusjreilly said:
Leroy Hoard said:
For years Lions fans have asked the question "What exactly does Rod Wood do?". Well now we know, and I for one will sleep better tonight having known.
Click to expand...
Someone has to wear the pants in that relationship
Click to expand...
Rod Wood is one of the few people where his porn name would be the same as his real name.
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Reminds me of a joke from 2020: "Your pandemic alcoholic name is your first name followed by your last name."
 

Detroit Lions roster projection 2.0: Shuffling the deck to fit 3 QBs and 7 WRs​


Allen Park — Since our last roster projection two weeks ago, a few things have changed with the Detroit Lions, meriting some adjustments on our end.

After the team’s third preseason game, here’s where we land.

Quarterback (3)​

In: Jared Goff, Kyle Allen, Hendon Hooker

Work to do: None

Changes: Allen in

Thoughts: Since the Hall of Fame Game, Allen has outplayed Hooker by a wide margin. It’s no longer a question of who should be Detroit’s No. 2 behind Goff; it’s whether the team can justify carrying a third quarterback to open the season.

I suspect general manager Brad Holmes will be reluctant to pull the plug on Hooker and risk losing him on waivers. Just because the development hasn’t been what everyone hoped, it doesn’t mean there hasn’t been positive development. An investment has been made, and with another year of contractual control, there’s value in letting things play out a little longer.

There’s enough flexibility elsewhere on the roster to make this work.

Running back (4)​

In: Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Craig Reynolds, Sione Vaki

Work to do: Jacob Saylors*, Deon Jackson

Changes: None

Thoughts: Some situations play out exactly as you anticipate. Such is the case with Detroit’s backfield, where the depth chart has remained unchanged since last season.

Well, maybe that’s not entirely true. While Gibbs and Montgomery will continue to share almost the entire workload, it does appear Gibbs might get a little more of the pie in 2025.

As for the backup situation, Reynolds solidified his place as the No. 3, both through individual improvement and his durability. Vaki is unquestionably making strides in his second year. Still, a nagging hamstring issue has prevented him from commanding a larger offensive role, at least to start the season.

Saylors, a mid-camp addition after leading the UFL in rushing and scoring, has paced the Lions in carries and rushing yards during the preseason. His quick acclimation isn't dissimilar to when the Lions signed Reynolds in Aug. 2021. With injuries taking out a couple of the team’s other depth options, Saylors has become the logical choice to fill a practice squad spot previously held by Jermar Jefferson.

Wide receiver (7)​

In: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond, Isaac TeSlaa, Dominic Lovett, Jackson Meeks

Work to do: Tom Kennedy*, Ronnie Bell*, Jakobie Keeney-James, Malik Taylor

Changes: Meeks in

Thoughts: I’ve been intrigued by Meeks’ fit since rookie minicamp. He has size, physicality, contested-catch ability and a strong resume on special teams. There’s a long list of receivers who pop during the early portion of the offseason program only to fade when the pads come on. Meeks hasn’t been one of those guys. He’s stayed on a steady incline, consistently making plays in practice and carrying that success into the preseason.

Instead of sacrificing Lovett to keep the deserving Meeks, I’m advocating for retaining seven receivers. It’s a lot, but not unusual. Seven teams carried seven on their initial 53-man roster last season.

I see it as Lovett and Meeks having long-term value. Lovett’s skill set has some obvious overlap with Kalif Raymond, who just turned 31 and is entering the final year of his contract. The seventh-round pick is a natural replacement after this season. Meanwhile, Meeks gives you long-term depth, with an ability to contribute early thanks to his run blocking and special teams. He has the potential to bring more to the table than Allen Robinson did a year ago.

I’m reasonably confident Patrick remains safe, but that’s gone from 100% to around 85% over the past week. Maybe I’m imagining it, but the situation feels similar to when Marvin Jones came back in 2023 and left the team midseason. Patrick was undeniably important to the Lions last year, filling the No. 3 void. However, TeSlaa and Meeks look ready in ways no one previously expected.

It’s worth noting that Patrick is popular with teammates, his $2.5 million salary is fully guaranteed, and he’s quietly helping TeSlaa behind the scenes.

Tight end (3)​

In: Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Shane Zylstra

Work to do: Zach Horton*, Steven Stilianos, Gunnar Oakes

Injured: Kenny Yeboah

Changes: None

Thoughts: In our previous projection, we left the door open for Yeboah to reclaim the job he was expected to win entering the offseason. Instead, the veteran suffered a season-ending knee injury.

In the meantime, the Lions have taken a long look at undrafted rookie Zach Horton, who is more of a block-first option, operating with equal efficiency attached to the offensive tackle or in backfield alignments. Regardless, his preseason tape suggests he’s probably a year away, from a strength and technique standpoint.

Zylstra has quietly made strides as a blocker, and we know the former college receiver can offer some juice in the pass game, particularly in the red zone and as the primary read on play-action rollouts.

Offensive line (9)​

In: Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, Graham Glasgow, Tate Rateledge, Christian Mahogany, Dan Skipper, Giovanni Manu, Kayode Awosika, Kingsley Eguakun

Work to do: Jamarco Jones*, Netane Muti*, Michael Niese*, Mason Miller, Zach Johnson, Gunner Britton

Injured: Miles Frazier, Colby Sorsdal, Trystan Colon, Justin Herron, Keaton Sutherland

Changes: Muti off the roster. Sorsdal, Herron, Sutherland and Colon to the injured list

Thoughts: To make room for Hooker and Meeks, the offensive line is an area where we sacrificed a piece, trimming Muti from our original projection. That’s a tough call, but Eguakun’s ability to play guard and center makes it a little easier.

There’s no guarantee Jones makes it back to Detroit’s practice squad, where he spent all of last season, but it would be welcome insurance. Manu made big strides in his second offseason, but doesn’t appear ready for a game-day role. The experienced Jones could be elevated from the practice squad in emergency situations.

We’re admittedly speculating how the team will handle Colon, who is nursing an elbow injury suffered in the team’s second preseason game but was not placed on injured reserve. He may be tracking toward one of two reserve spots that the team can use on cutdown day without counting against the 53. The veteran was narrowly outperforming Eguakun at the time of the injury.
 

Defensive line (9)​

In: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Ahmed Hassanein, DJ Reader, Tyleik Williams, Pat O'Connor, Roy Lopez, Keith Cooper

Work to do: Myles Adams*, Mitchell Agude, Brodric Martin, Chris Smith*, Nate Lynn*, Isaac Ukwu*

Injured: Alim McNeill, Josh Paschal, Mekhi Wingo, Levi Onwuzurike

Changes: None

Thoughts: Some injury situations lack clarity as of Sunday morning. Let’s start with Paschal, who is supposed to be ready to begin practicing in September. Does that mean the team keeps him active, or will they take the conservative approach, sitting him for the first four games?

Paschal’s timeline likely impacts what the Lions do with Cooper, the undrafted rookie who has a similar body type and fills the same inside/outside role in the scheme.

Additionally, we’re keeping Hassanein on the roster until we have clarity with the injury he suffered against the Dolphins. Maybe it’s nothing, maybe it’s long-term, but he’ll be able to come back this season, resulting in a trip to injured reserve on cutdown day. There’s also a realistic possibility it’s season-ending.

What would that mean? My initial inclination would be to slot either Lynn or Ukwu into that vacancy. Both have had their moments this offseason. There’s also the lingering Za’Darius Smith solution. The veteran and Lions continue to flirt with a post-camp reunion, and the loss of Hassanein clears the runway to land that plane.

Detroit will have some tough cuts at defensive tackle. Adams and Smith have been playing particularly well in recent weeks. Both would be excellent practice squad additions if they clear waivers.

As for Martin, the former third-round pick, he’s fighting for his job and putting out some decent tape in recent weeks, sans three penalties. I’m not projecting him to get back to the practice squad because I think some team will be too intrigued by his frame and potential to pass up putting in a waiver claim.

Linebackers (6)​

In: Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, Grant Stuard, Trevor Nowaske, Zach Cunningham

Work to do: DaRon Gilbert, Anthony Pittman, Ezekiel Turner*

Injured: Malcolm Rodriguez

Changes: None

Thoughts: Turner is a tough cut. He’s one of the roster’s strongest special teams performers ahead of a season where that’s going to be increasingly valuable. But the Lions have a lot of good special teamers, and the undersized Turner is buried on the defensive depth chart behind the starters and Stuard.

If anyone gets the Kyle Peko treatment this year, it could be Cunningham. What do we mean by that? We’re suggesting the Lions could initially cut the veteran linebacker and temporarily put him on the practice squad to avoid guaranteeing his salary before promoting him. That's a conversation that requires directness, but would be justified if you think Malcolm Rodriguez will be back around the midpoint of the season.

As a vested veteran, Cunningham isn't subject to waivers. The Lions could soften the blow in this hypothetical, like they did with Peko, by guaranteeing some of Cunningham's salary when they eventually promote him to the 53.

Cornerbacks (5)​

In: Terrion Arnold, DJ Reed, Amik Robertson, Rock-Ya Sin, Erick Hallett

Work to do: Tyson Russell*, Nick Whiteside*, Luq Barcoo, D.J. Miller, Allen George

Injured: Khalil Dorsey, Ennis Rakestraw, Dicaprio Bootle

Changes: Rakestraw and Bootle to the injured list

Thoughts: Prior to the Miami game, I was itching to bump Whiteside onto the roster. The mid-camp addition has regularly flashed his ball skills during training camp, making the case.

However, Whiteside was shaky with expanded snaps against Miami. At the same time, the versatile Hallett thrived with solid tackling and three pass breakups.

We’re also keeping Ya-Sin in the cornerback listings, despite logging more time at safety the past two weeks. He’s showing he can do both.

The lingering question, like Paschal with the defensive line, is what to do with Dorsey. I feel stronger about the veteran cornerback and special teams standout being kept on the injured list to start the season as he continues to work his way back from last year’s broken leg.

Safeties (4)​

In: Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch, Avonte Maddox, Ian Kennelly

Work to do: Loren Strickland*, Morice Norris*

Injured: Dan Jackson

Changes: Jackson to the injured list, Kennelly in

Thoughts: Detroit’s secondary is uniquely fluid thanks to the additions of Ya-Sin and Maddox, plus Robertson’s outside/nickel flexibility. The collective versatility backstops a lot of injury scenarios, lessening the need to carry an extra defensive back into Week 1.

Still, with Jackson, the seventh-round draft pick out of Georgia, suffering what is expected to be a season-ending injury, there’s an opportunity to add an intriguing developmental piece to the back end of the roster in Kennelly.

I wouldn’t say Kennelly had made himself as undeniable as Meeks. However, the former Grand Valley State standout’s size and athleticism are intriguing. With a little patience, he could end up developing into a really good special-teams player with some defensive upside, much like Nowaske, another raw and athletic talent who came out of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Specialists (3)​

In: Jack Fox, Jake Bates, Hogan Hatten

Work to do: None

Changes: None

Thoughts: There’s nothing to say here. There’s no camp competition for the trio.

* Projected practice squad
 
The HC of Arkansas should be calling in the OC and saying "Why did you not find a way to get Tessla more involved in our offense last season??" Then asking himself the same question.
 
BobbyLayne said:
ignatiusjreilly said:
Hey, @BobbyLayne, since you're like our own personal Paul Lukas for this thread, any explanation on why the Lions are back to two-tone uniforms in the preseason? They've worn silver pants for both home games and blue pants for the Atlanta game, after going almost entirely monochromatic last year (IIRC the only time they didn't was the TB game, which they lost. Every other one was either all blue, all white or all black).

Gotta say, after spending years lamenting the monochromatic trend across the league, I've grown to like the Lions with that look, to the point where it feels weird to see them with the color combos they've had for nearly my entire life. Not-the-same-ol'-Lions, indeed
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Not sure, but I agree the two-tones look sharp. I’m kind of over the blueberries and marshmallows.

I know a little about the process. Jerseys which they intend to wear for home games are selected in June. It’s decided by to Campbell & Holmes Rod Wood. But they can switch to alternates (black or throwbacks) 4 times. That’s a new rule this year, used to be 3.

As for pants / what combo they wear, that’s up to a committee of veterans. I know Alex Anzalone is one of the players but not sure who else. The equipment manager polls them the week of the game via a group text.

The league rules state the home team decides what color they’re wearing - only the Cowboys and Dolphins wear white at home - and the visiting team has to wear the opposite.

I’ll ask Justin Rogers in the SubStack chat if he has any insight. He’s pretty good about trying to find answers if he doesn’t know.
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I like the all blues, but not all the time. 1-2 times a season tops. Enjoyed seeing the standard combos again as they looked new again.

Always liked the white jersey with silver pants roadies.
 
Da Guru said:
The HC of Arkansas should be calling in the OC and saying "Why did you not find a way to get Tessla more involved in our offense last season??" Then asking himself the same question.
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Their offense - especially QB play - was atrocious the last few years. It’s one of the reasons I think people missed what TeSlaa could become. The Razorbacks used him as a big slot so I guess everyone figured “oh that’s what he is.”

His physicality, release, contested catch ability & run blocking make him an ideal X. He is a lot more pro ready than I thought he would be. Doesn’t look like a LT project, I think he is a guy who contributes right away.
 
Dan Campbell Monday afternoon presser before practice:

injury updates:
  • Ahmed Hassanein — Out for a while with a pectoral injury. Campbell said he doesn't know yet if he'll be back this season
  • Khalil Dorsey — Starting today with individual drills, expected to be eased in throughout the week. Status for the preseason game is still uncertain.
  • Kerby Joseph — Dealing with minor knee irritation. Not considered serious, and the team hopes to have him back later this week.
  • Morice Norris — Still TBD and being thorough but he is doing well.
  • Sam LaPorta - did not come up so presumably will be back out there soon?
on DB room versatility:
  • Allows you to do more things
  • Lets you take the best guys you feel will help on gameday
  • Branch, Maddox, and Ya-Sin (working him at safety, improving each week)
  • Robertson and Reed can line up inside or outside
  • Having guys who can handle multiple jobs really helps
one difference for the Texans-Lions joint practice (Thursday only) will be a 2nd & Long period he planned with DeMeco Ryans.
  • Offense: must get chunk yardage or set up 3rd-and-manageable
  • Defense: goal is to hold them back, expose the situation, and get off the field
on Kingsley Eguakun:
  • He has improved
  • It’s always been about the anchor for him
  • Not a huge guy, but makes up for it with quickness, smarts, aggressiveness, and agility — has to be on point every time
  • That’s been a big focus for him
  • Mentally, he’s been really sharp this camp — processes info quickly, makes the calls, sees it
on Tate Ratledge:
  • said they haven’t gone back to Tate Ratledge at center, letting him deep dive at guard with Sewell or Decker as his “bumper,” which they feel has been good.
  • They do plan to work him back in at center some.

asked about the importance of annual improvement and to evaluate his latest performance in the Applebee's commercial:
  • “I don’t wanna watch”
  • Told Holly during filming it didn’t feel good
  • Felt last year’s was better
on Isaac TeSlaa
  • Doing a good job, continues to improve and grow as a young player
  • The more he proves he can do stuff, the more opportunities he'll get to be with Jared Goff
  • "At some point we're going to need him"
  • Beginning to see what he can do for the team on offense, on Special Teams, which means he's going to the game
on how trust of pass protection can expand an offense:
  • Always starts with the O-Line for us — doesn’t matter how good Goff, St. Brown, Jamo, Leaf, Gibbs are
  • If we can’t protect and keep them out of Goff’s lap, we’ll struggle
  • It is the most important thing to your vertical pass game and play action pass — it is everything
  • The front has gotten better, starting to gel, and still has more work to do
 

Lions camp observations: If practice is any indication, defense's blitzing is going to cause a lot of problems​


Allen Park — Here are some notes and observations from the Detroit Lions’ Monday afternoon training camp practice.

● Let’s start with a quick participation report.

Not practicing: Tight end Sam LaPorta, wide receiver Malik Taylor, center Trystan Colon (elbow), safety Morice Norris (concussion), safety Kerby Joseph (knee) and defensive end Ahmed Hassanein (pec).

In case you missed it, all the latest injury information will be housed in this linked, regularly updated post for the remainder of the 2025 season.

In terms of in-practice injuries, cornerback Avonte Maddox briefly left holding his back, and Jameson Williams tweaked his ankle, but both players returned.

Late in the session, defensive tackle Brodric Martin and tight end Zach Horton were banged up on the same play. Horton appeared to be in considerable pain as the trainer examined his upper arm and chest, but no injury update was provided by the team after practice.

● The Lions weren’t in pads, but the team still did one-on-one and two-on-two work between the offensive and defensive lines.

Aidan Hutchinson continues to be a pass-rushing menace, getting the best of Penei Sewell twice. I can’t tell you whether the first win was intentional or an accident. Regardless, instead of his signature spin move, Hutchinson stopped when sideways and slid past the All-Pro tackle.

On the second, Hutchinson won by impressively ripping under Sewell’s inside arm.

With the other starters, Tate Ratledge was able to re-anchor after the initial knockback on both of his reps, getting the best of Tyleik Williams and Chris Smith. Graham Glasgow shut down DJ Reader in both of their matchups. Christian Mahogany had a pair of dominant reps, locking down Roy Lopez and Williams. And Taylor Deckcer stuffed Marcus Davenport’s inside move and Isaac Ukwu’s bull rush.

With the backups, Kayode Awosika lost twice, once to Myles Adams and again to Pat O’Connor. Adams also got the best of newcomer Zach Johnson with a bull rush and Michael Niese with an impressive counter move to the inside. Adams has been regularly showing up in the notebook for the past couple of weeks.

Meanwhile, Lopez violently clubbed his way around Niese and Giovanni Manu pancaked Derrick Barnes, who tried to bend inside on the young tackle.

● O’Connor got significant run with the first-team defense in full-team, rotating with Davenport.

● The first-team offense opened up with a series of run plays with the linebackers racking up stops near the line of scrimmage. Alex Anzalone had a tackle for a loss on Jahmyr Gibbs and another after 2 yards on a handoff to David Montgomery. Jack Campbell also slammed the door on Montgomery after 1 yard.

After four runs, quarterback Jared Goff tried play-action, only for DJ Reed to knock away a crossing throw intended for Amon-Ra St. Brown.

● The second team came in for a few reps with Sione Vaki netting a couple of nice gains on the ground, showcasing his rapidly improving feel for his blocking.

● It’s always interesting seeing coaches spend time in the middle of practice providing one-on-one instruction to a young player. On Monday, Hank Fraley spent several minutes walking through hand placements with offensive tackle Giovanni Manu, while wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery offered tips to cornerback Terrion Arnold on ball security after the cornerback had one popped free at the end of a punt return drill.

Arnold let up after the play appeared over. Regardless, as we’ve noted in the past, ball handlers are expected to maintain the points of pressure beyond the whistle in Detroit's practices. The miscue gave Montgomery a window to provide some extra coaching. Arnold may never return a punt for the Lions. However, ball security will be critical once he snags that first interception.

● The Lions did some one-on-one special teams work with one player trying to block another from reaching a stationary tackling dummy. The two young safeties potentially vying for a single roster spot — Ian Kennelly and Loren Strickland — both zipped by the block of the other, almost untouched, splitting the drill.

Receiver Jackson Meeks, pushing for a roster spot, got by fellow rookie Isaac TeSlaa with a jarring two-handed jam, keeping the block off his frame.

And, to the surprise of no one, linebacker Grant Stuard was a problem in both facets of the drill, breaking the ankles of Horton on one rep.

● Continuing full-team work, blitzing linebackers regularly found their way into the backfield. However, the plays were rarely blown dead by the coaching staff. I had Jack Campbell down for two sacks, Stuard with one and Trevor Nowaske with another.

After blitzing a lot the last few years under Aaron Glenn, the Lions looked poised to blitz even more with Kelvin Sheppard calling the shots.

● When Jameson Williams left to have his ankle checked out, TeSlaa took a handful of first-team reps. Goff looked the rookie’s way on a deep shot, but he was blanketed by Terrion Arnold down the right sideline, resulting in an incompletion.

● After a brutal preseason showing, I thought Hendon Hooker bounced back nicely during Monday’s practice. He returned to his accurate ways, firing several bullets with good timing, hitting his receivers in stride.

He was admittedly fortunate on one, getting the ball to Tim Patrick on a short out route, just ahead of a hard-charging cornerback, Tyson Russell. Hooker also badly misfired on a sure touchdown to running back Jacob Saylors, who was wide open on a flare into the right flat.

● In Khalil Dorsey’s first practice back since breaking his leg last December, he jumped immediately back into first-team reps as a gunner on punt coverage.

● In red zone work, the first-team offense struggled to move the ball with Campbell coming up with his second sack on a third-down blitz. Even with the play allowed to continue, safety Brian Branch broke up the throw to Kalif Raymond.

Resetting at the 10-yard line, the offense worked to a third-and-5, with pressure from Davenport forcing Goff to roll from the pocket. He eventually fired a pass to a tightly covered St. Brown that wound up incomplete.

● The second-team offense scored a touchdown when Hooker heaved up a fade that Patrick pulled down over Russell. It might have been a (second) sack by Stuard, though, after Vaki struggled to pick up the blitz effectively.

● Practice ended with a couple of situations. The first, an end-of-half scenario, saw the first-team offense take over at the opponent’s 12-yard line with 21 seconds remaining.

Again, the defense stood tall with Branch cutting down Gibbs on a shallow cross on first down and Arnold breaking up a pass to Williams in the end zone on third down, following a spike.

The second team started a little further back, at the 17, with Kyle Allen running the show. Patrick nearly came up with a one-handed grab working against cornerback Allan George. However, the offense was ultimately kept out of the end zone once again.

● The final scenario was end-of-game. It saw Goff eat a simulated sack on third down, setting up fourth-and-11 with the clock ticking under 30 seconds.

Although a little unclear, since there weren’t officials at this practice, it appeared Amik Robertson was flagged for illegal contact when he and St. Brown got tangled on the hurry-up target.

With a fresh set of downs, Goff threw a short out route to St. Brown that ended practice. My working assumption is the offense got the needed yardage to win the drill, based on what was deemed to be Jake Bates’ field-goal range.
 

Lions observations: Dorsey's return gives secondary relief; Patrick has 'C--plus' practice​


Dave Birkett
Detroit Free Press
Khalil Dorsey's return couldn't have come at a better time – for him or the Detroit Lions.

Dorsey came off the physically unable to perform list Thursday, a little over eight months after he broke his leg last December in a game against the Buffalo Bills. He took part in position drills and worked as the No. 1 gunner on the Lions' punt team, and he gave the team's young and injury-riddled secondary another veteran face to lean on.

“I needed this," Dorsey said. "Because you don’t want to go into a season not getting any reps. Like today, I thought I was in shape and then getting those reps in, I was like, 'Oh my goodness.'"

Dorsey said he's on track to be ready for Week 1 after spending the first month of camp rehabbing. He said he worked out while wearing a weight vest in recent weeks to simulate pads before returning to the practice, and while he still has some pain in his right leg, he's wearing a soccer-style shin guard to protect his tibia and fibula from unnecessary collisions.

"I’m able to walk semi-pain-free right now so I’m happy about that," he said. "Before it was all bad, but I’m good now."

The Lions' secondary has been thinned by injury this summer, with Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Dicaprio Bootle and Dan Jackson already on IR and Morice Norris' return from a brain injury uncertain. Dorsey should make the roster as the eighth defensive back (behind starters Terrion Arnold, D.J. Reed, Amik Robertson, Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, and veteran backups Rock Ya-Sin and Avonte Maddox), and if Monday's practice is any indication, he'll have a key special-teams role off the jump.

Rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa joined Dorsey in working as a first-team gunner Monday, with Dominic Lovett and Jackson Meeks taking second-team reps and Allan George and Tyson Russell working third-string.

"I know I still got to in a sense earn that spot again," Dorsey said. "But I’m happy (I was out there today)."

Here's more news, notes and observations from Monday's practice:

Under the roof​

The Lions practiced inside for the first time this summer, but still squeezed some good team and situational work in. They had a long red-zone period late in practice and finished with an end-of-half and end-of-game situation.

Both the first- and second-team offense failed to reach the end zone in the end-of-half series. Starting first-and-10 at the plus-12-yard line with 21 seconds on the clock, Jared Goff threw a short pass to Jahmyr Gibbs but Brian Branch tagged Gibbs down in-bounds and then Goff was forced to spike the ball to kill the clock. On third-and-6 from the 8, Terrion Arnold had a nice pass breakup on a throw to Jameson Williams in the end zone. Arnold was behind Williams on the play, but was able to reach his hand in for the PBU when Williams let the pass get too close to his body.

Kyle Allen threw incomplete to Tim Patrick on a corner route on the first play with the second-team offense – George had tight coverage on the play – and the defense put eight men at the goal line to force a throwaway on second-and-10 from the 17 with 10 seconds left.

In the end-of-game situation, the offense started in third-and-6 on the plus-44-yard line, down 24-21 with 38 seconds on the clock. The Lions simulated a sack on the first play, forcing everyone to scramble back to the line of scrimmage for a fourth-and-11 snap.

Amon-Ra St. Brown and Amik Robertson collided on the play, and coaches reset the ball in first-and-10 at the 44, as if there was a penalty on Robertson. Goff threw a quick out to St. Brown on the next snap, the final play of practice.

Tim Patrick is back​

Patrick took part in team drills for the first time in weeks and worked mostly with the second-team offense. He made a contested catch over Russell in team drills on a play that might have resulted in a sack, and graded his return as a C-plus performance overall.

Patrick expressed his frustration with his play early in camp and said little has changed in that regard. Kalif Raymond has worked as the No. 3 receiver most of the summer and TeSlaa could steal Patrick's snaps on gameday especially if he starts at gunner.

"I think it was good enough but this offense is based on details and I feel like I was lacking a lot of details today," Patrick said.

Isaac TeSlaa works with the backups​

TeSlaa has played well this summer and is trending towards having a gameday role in the regular season, but he played mostly with the second-team offense Monday and spent the pre-practice walk-through period on the second field with Allen and Hendon Hooker.

In a team period midway through practice, TeSlaa appeared to line up in the wrong spot on one play – Ronnie Bell had to point him out wide in the formation – and some of the defensive sideline harangued his knowledge of the playbook.

Asked before practice if TeSlaa will see more time with Goff and the first-team offense going forward, Campbell said it's possible and the rookie was "doing a great job."

"He just keeps growing and the more that he proves that he can do some things for us, the more opportunities he’s going to get to be with Goff," Campbell said. "And like I say, at some point we’re going to need him whether it’s early, it’s late, whatever that is."

Injuries spotted​

The Lions did not offer any official injury updates from practice, but tight end Zach Horton got medical attention on what appeared to be his shoulder late in practice and defensive tackle Brodric Martin limped off on the same play favoring his right leg.

Williams missed a few snaps after he appeared to have the wind knocked out of him when a pass hit him in the stomach area, and Maddox left briefly but returned after grabbing his back while chasing a receiver in coverage.

Sam LaPorta and Kerby Joseph remain out with injuries.

Sacks galore​

Campbell didn't blow any of the plays dead, but I counted three would-be sacks by the first-team defense against the first-team offense in eight red-zone snaps. Jack Campbell had a sack on a blitz up the middle on a third-and-2 play from the 18. Aidan Hutchinson had a sack on a third-and-goal play from the 5, when Marcus Davenport created the pressure. And Hutchinson and Tyleik Williams had a sack one play later on fourth-and-goal from the 4.

The Lions' offensive line hasn't done a great job picking up blitzes this summer, and Grant Stuard had a sack on a third-and-5 play from the 6 against Hooker and the second-team offense in the same period. Hooker also missed an open Jacob Saylers badly in the flat on a fourth-and-3 play from the 4, when Zach Cunningham was late getting out in coverage.

Who's winning one-on-ones?​

Stuard, Lovett and Sione Vaki were standouts in a one-on-one special-teams blocking drill in the middle of practice, when the blocker and defender lined up 5 yards apart and the defender had to beat the blocker to a simulated punt returner 7 yards in the backfield.

Stuard had good reps against Saylors and Horton, though Saylors had a solid block on Stuard in their second rep. Lovett and Vaki split their reps, with each winning as the defensive player. And Nate Lynn had a good block on Pat O'Connor at the end of the drill, after O'Connor drove Lynn into the returner in their first rep.

Hey, Jason​

One face in the crowd of note: Jason Garrett, Dan Campbell's old teammate with the New York Giants and a current studio analyst with NBC, watched Monday's practice with the field and spent time catching up with Campbell during individual period
 

Injuries have decimated Lions' depth at DB; how roster could shake out on cut day​


Dave Birkett
Detroit Free Press
Ennis Rakestraw was supposed to play a backup role at cornerback this fall. When he went down with a season-ending shoulder injury in the third week of training camp, Dicaprio Bootle took most of his reps with the Detroit Lions' second-team defense.

Dan Jackson looked like the No. 4 safety. A seventh-round pick out of Georgia, he was a core special-teams player in college and was working toward winning the same role with the Lions when he injured his leg in practice.

Rakestraw, Bootle and Jackson are all on injured reserve, lost to season-ending injuries suffered in practice, and their absence has tested the Lions' depth in a secondary with many moving parts.

Morice Norris, who was competing with Jackson for the No. 4 safety job, has not played since he was knocked unconscious and had to be taken off the field by ambulance in the Lions' Aug. 8 preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. His availability for the season is in question.

Khalil Dorsey, a top special-teams player and backup cornerback last season, was activated off the physically unable to perform list and practiced Monday for the first time this summer in his return from the broken leg he suffered last December.

Avonte Maddox, who was penciled in as the Lions' No. 3 safety by safeties coach Jim O'Neil this spring, has played mostly as a slot cornerback in training camp in recent weeks. And Rock Ya-Sin, who signed as a backup cornerback, is playing safety for the first time since his junior year of high school.

Maddox and Ya-Sin should be key backups, in whatever role, this fall for a Lions secondary that could have as many as three spots open ahead of next week's cut down to a 53-man roster.

Terrion Arnold, D.J. Reed and Amik Robertson at cornerback and Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch at safety are locked into starting jobs, but the Lions have no clear pecking order behind Maddox and Ya-Sin at backup. In last week's preseason game against the Miami Dolphins, they played a different cornerback tandem on their first three defensive series in part to get a good evaluation on the six players at that position competing for jobs.

"We wanted to get a good look at all those guys and we didn’t have a ton of them, so we wanted to make sure we tried to roll them through and keep them somewhat fresh but give them good looks," Lions coach Dan Campbell said. "We played a lot of man (coverage). It’s good, but it also, man, it’s taxing.

"It’s taxing on that group back there to do that play after play."

Lions second secondary steps up​

Nick Whiteside, who signed with the Lions in July after playing in the UFL this spring, and Erick Hallett, a safety who's playing multiple roles in the secondary, started at cornerback against the Dolphins, Tyson Russell and D.J. Miller took the second series and Luq Barcoo and Allan George played the third.

Hallett, the only one of that group who was on the Lions roster prior to July 18, also played safety and slot cornerback in the game and finished with three tackles and three pass breakups.

"He’s a guy that can play all the positions," Campbell said. "Mentally, he knows them all. So, man, that gives you ability to – really it’s about, ‘OK, well, what can the next guy do? Well, we know he can only play this. OK, well Hallett, you need to go over there then. You become safety or nickel.’ So, he’s kind of our get-us-out-of-trouble-there (guy)."

Hallett's position versatility could give him a leg up on winning a job in the secondary where the Lions kept 11 players on their Week 1 roster last season. Ian Kennelly, an undrafted rookie from Grand Valley State, and Loren Strickland, who spent part of last season on the Lions' 53-man roster, also are vying for jobs at safety, with Kennelly logging the most playing time − 49 snaps − of any Lions defender against the Dolphins.

Campbell came away from the game optimistic about his young defensive backs. Miller, Russell and George allowed touchdowns in man coverage, but the secondary had nine pass breakups.

"We got our hands on some balls," Campbell said. "We didn’t finish on them, but we did. And I thought they were competitive and pretty sticky for the most part.”
 

Detroit Lions have 'good competition' at DL and tough choices to make for roster cuts​


Dave Birkett
Detroit Free Press
August 17
For Isaac Ukwu, the best part about getting some playing time as an undrafted rookie last fall was it gave him a sense of what he needed to get better at this offseason.

Ukwu played in two games for the Detroit Lions last October and made one start the week after Aidan Hutchinson broke his leg. He had three tackles, including one for loss, but he when he rewatched tape of his performances this spring he saw a lot to work on.

"It’s just something to look back at and build off of and see where you made mistakes and see where people were able to take advantage of some of your weaknesses," Ukwu said after Saturday's 24-17 preseason loss to the Miami Dolphins. "That was a big thing. I just wanted to see what I messed up on, see what I got wrong and then go back and work on those things in the offseason so that I can showcase that I can fix those things and keep getting better when the season comes around."

One area Ukwu focused on improving was his power.

He added about 10 pounds his offseason primarily by following the Lions' in-house training and nutrition plan, and those gains paid dividends Saturday when he beat Dolphins left tackle Kion Smith for a drive-ending sack just before halftime.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.
Ukwu, who's played primarily as an outside edge defender in his year-plus with the Lions, lined up in a 4i technique on Smith's inside shoulder, with linebacker Trevor Nowaske split wide to his right as a stand-up rusher. He knocked Smith off balance with his initial rush, then beat him inside to toss Zach Wilson to the turf before he could get a pass off on fourth-and-4.

The Lions drove 83 yards on nine plays for a touchdown on the next drive to take a 14-7 lead into halftime.

"It’s definitely something new," Ukwu said of his ability to rush inside and play big end in the Lions' defense. "It’s definitely something I’ve been working on getting more comfortable with this camp. I put on a little bit of weight so being able to show that versatility to slide inside a little bit and also come off the edge, I feel like that’ll only be beneficial to my game."

Ukwu, now 270 pounds, is one of a handful of young rushers competing for one or two open backup jobs on the Lions' defensive line with roster cuts looming after next week's preseason finale against the Houston Texans.

The Lions have used the same starting group most of camp, with Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport at defensive end and D.J. Reader and Tyleik Williams at defensive tackle. Roy Lopez, who did not play Saturday, is the Lions' top interior backup. Al-Quadin Muhammad and Pat O'Connor are veterans who seem secure in their roster spots after playing important roles in 2024. And sixth-round pick Ahmed Hassanein is a good bet to make the team if he's healthy after leaving Saturday's game with an apparent chest injury.

The Lions kept nine defensive linemen on their initial 53-man roster last season, had 10 on their Week 1 roster in 2023 and likely will fall somewhere in that range again this year.

They have reinforcements coming later in the season when Alim McNeill, Mekhi Wingo and Josh Paschal get healthy, but will use the final week of training camp this week to sort through their options on the defensive line.

Ukwu, who signed with the Lions as an undrafted free agent out of Ole Miss last spring, is one of three first- or second-year linemen who've made a strong impression this summer. Nate Lynn, a second-year edge rusher who missed all of last season with a shoulder injury, has had a strong camp, and undrafted rookie Keith Cooper has taken some first-team reps as a big end with some interior rush ability.

Lions coach Dan Campbell also mentioned fourth-year defensive tackle Myles Adams on Saturday as a player who's impressed this summer.

"I think all those guys improved," Campbell said last week of his young edge rushers. "I thought all those guys showed a little bit (in the second preseason game against the Falcons) and showed some improvement over a week period. So that was good to see. Nate Lynn made a couple of plays, had a couple of rushes there. Cooper I think continues to show that he has some versatility, which is good. And Ukwu, Ukwu hit a long arm. And we know what Mitch (Agude) is capable of, so I just think they’ve all improved, it’s good to see. It’s a pretty good competition right now.”

The competition likely won't be decided until after the Texans game, which means Ukwu and others have three practices this week (on Monday, Tuesday and a joint workout with the Texans on Thursday) plus the exhibition finale to make their case for a job.

Ukwu said he feels like he's been "trending up" this summer and won't stress what happens the next few days.

"My mindset is to never get too high, never get too low," he said. "That’s what Coach always preaches and just continue to steadily grow."
 
Updated Detroit Lions injury information

​

Offensive lineman Trystan Colon

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.

Defensive end Ahmed Hassanein

The rookie defensive lineman suffered a pec injury in the second half against the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 16. The evaluation is on-going, but 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.”

Safety Kerby Joseph

Joseph has been in and out of the lineup during training camp with what Campbell called “minor knee irritation.” The first-team All-Pro did not participate in joint practices with the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 13-14.

“It's just something he's been dealing with a little bit,” Campbell said Aug. 18. “We're hoping to get him back late in the week. We don't feel like it's a major problem. It's just something we're trying to manage right now and get it to calm down.”

Tight end Sam LaPorta

LaPorta has been out with an undisclosed injury since Aug. 14. “It’s not major, but he will miss a little bit of time here,” Campbell said.

Safety Morice Norris

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.”

Long-term injuries​

Active/Physically unable to perform​

Cornerback Khalil Dorsey

Dorsey broke his tibia and fibula after colliding with a teammate during Detroit’s Dec. 15 game against Buffalo. On July 22, Campbell said Dorsey was close to being cleared and the Lions hoped to get him back to practice in the latter stages of training camp.

On Aug. 18, Campbell announced would be activated off PUP.

“We'll start today, individual (and) group, some of that stuff. Hopefully, by the end of the week, maybe we can get him worked into a few things. I don't know if he'll play or not (in Saturday's preseason finale). This is a step in the right direction, getting him back.”

Offensive lineman Miles Frazier

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

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.

Defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo

Wingo suffered a season-ending meniscus tear against the Bears last Thanksgiving. At the end of the season, he was optimistic about being ready for the offseason program. However, he has remained sidelined throughout training camp. In late July, Campbell estimated the second-year defender would be prepared to return to practice at some point in September.

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.

Non-football injury​

Defensive lineman Josh Paschal

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.

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.
 
I am going to assume most of you who contribute regularly to this thread are not interested in trading for Trey right?

Branch or Campbell and the 2026 1st for Trey?
Truth is, as much as you all want to keep the core, it's not going to happen. They cannot afford it.
However, with $42 million still in cap room, they can pull off this trade and make a run over the next two years.
The cap went up substantially this year and will again next year. They can restructure Goff if needed.
There are moves to be made here. Brad is just choosing not to.

Personally, I think Brad paid the wrong safety. I would have easily traded Joseph and a 1st. But I doubt Cincy wants that contract.
 
Payne said:
I am going to assume most of you who contribute regularly to this thread are not interested in trading for Trey right?

Branch or Campbell and the 2026 1st for Trey?
Truth is, as much as you all want to keep the core, it's not going to happen. They cannot afford it.
However, with $42 million still in cap room, they can pull off this trade and make a run over the next two years.
The cap went up substantially this year and will again next year. They can restructure Goff if needed.
There are moves to be made here. Brad is just choosing not to.

Personally, I think Brad paid the wrong safety. I would have easily traded Joseph and a 1st. But I doubt Cincy wants that contract.
Click to expand...

My rule of thumb is if you're trading a 1st for a player you want that player around for the next 5 years because that's the length of cost control you're giving up with that 1st. Not sure Hendrickson has 5 elite years left in him.
 
Payne said:
I am going to assume most of you who contribute regularly to this thread are not interested in trading for Trey right?

Branch or Campbell and the 2026 1st for Trey?
Truth is, as much as you all want to keep the core, it's not going to happen. They cannot afford it.
However, with $42 million still in cap room, they can pull off this trade and make a run over the next two years.
The cap went up substantially this year and will again next year. They can restructure Goff if needed.
There are moves to be made here. Brad is just choosing not to.

Personally, I think Brad paid the wrong safety. I would have easily traded Joseph and a 1st. But I doubt Cincy wants that contract.
Click to expand...
Not a big fan of trading for aging vets, but your proposals are reasonable. A lot would depend on what Trey is looking for in years and cash for me. I have no interest in giving a guy who will 31 end of year a five year deal.
 
Payne said:
I am going to assume most of you who contribute regularly to this thread are not interested in trading for Trey right?

Branch or Campbell and the 2026 1st for Trey?
Truth is, as much as you all want to keep the core, it's not going to happen. They cannot afford it.
However, with $42 million still in cap room, they can pull off this trade and make a run over the next two years.
The cap went up substantially this year and will again next year. They can restructure Goff if needed.
There are moves to be made here. Brad is just choosing not to.

Personally, I think Brad paid the wrong safety. I would have easily traded Joseph and a 1st. But I doubt Cincy wants that contract.
Click to expand...

If I had to choose between Joseph and Branch I would take Branch with 3 years of team control left.

If they bring Z back to rotate with Davenport they will be fine.
 

Detroit Lions' mid-August additions showcase high-level adaptability while attempting to make instant impact​


Personally I love stories about guys just trying to keep the dream alive for a little while longer.

Allen Park — How many Detroit Lions fans remember Giorgio Newberry? How about Jordan Lasley? Javelin Guidry?

All three wore the Honolulu blue in the past decade. Hell, Guidry was here last year. These are three examples of mid-August additions who arrived to fill a roster need, enjoyed a cup of coffee, and were looking for a new place to continue their football careers a couple of weeks later.

When you hear the cliche about football being a business, the mind typically goes to contract disputes or cap casualties. This is the other side of the coin. No, the other side of the moon. The dark side we never see and think about less.

During the offseason, NFL rosters are 90 deep. When training camp comes to an end, that’s shrunk to 53. With the expansion of practice squads to 16 in 2020, closer to 70 of those 90 players get to stick around for the regular season. The other 20 or so depart, with many never coming back.

Among that group are usually the Newberrys, Lasleys and Guidrys of the world. They’re guys added out of necessity, often filling a short-term void created by injury.

In harsh terms, they’re beggars, not choosers. They don’t have the option of being selective. If a team calls and asks them to jump — on a plane — they jump. They’ll take any opportunity to prolong their dreams, hoping to catch someone’s eye, whether it’s the team they’re joining mid-stream or any talent evaluator for one of the league’s other 31 franchises.

Detroit’s been busy making these additions this August. Injuries have demanded it, particularly at two positions, the offensive line and cornerback.

The Lions have signed three cornerbacks in August and another in late July. They’ve added four o-linemen this month, including two who have already landed on season-ending injured reserve.

Zack Johnson is the latest lineman to sign. A lot of these guys are background figures in the dog days of camp, but he stands out. For starters, he looks like a Viking warrior with his long hair. And, two, he’s the first man to wear No. 77 since All-Pro center Frank Ragnow retired this offseason. Coincidentally, both Johnson and Ragnow grew up in Minneapolis suburbs, although they've never met.

Johnson signed with Detroit on Aug. 14. He practiced once — a joint session with the Dolphins — then played all 34 snaps in the second half of the preseason games between the teams two days later.

That’s wild, any way you slice it. But for Johnson, who has a transaction history significantly longer than his glorious mane, he’s used to having to acclimate quickly. Since going undrafted in 2020, he’s played for eight NFL teams and the UFL’s Birmingham Stallions.

“I've bounced around, so I kind of know the drill about diving into the playbook quickly and just getting after things,” Johnson said. “You’ve got to know your responsibilities — snap count, alignment and assignment — then go from there.”

Johnson’s been around enough that he’s overlapped with several linemen on Detroit’s roster. He was with Graham Glasgow, Netane Muti and Michael Niese in Denver and Jamarco Jones in Tennessee. Those relationships can help when you have a question, because the team doesn’t dumb down the playbook for the new guy. They’re thrown right into the fire, even if they've only been on the roster three days.

“I've grown accustomed, unfortunately, to being in this position more than I'd like,” Johnson said. “But, because of that, I'm able to adapt quickly, learn the playbook quickly and play fast. That's the whole goal.”

Johnson might be familiarized with adapting, but he’s not calloused to the sting of being cut. It still hurts every time, including when the 49ers let him go a few short days before he signed with the Lions.

Cornerback Luq Barcoo can relate to all of that. Like Johnson, the former San Diego State standout has officially been employed by a quarter of the league’s teams after signing with Detroit.

He had a 10-day jump on Johnson before playing 20 defensive snaps and four reps on special teams in Saturday’s preseason tilt with Miami. And Barcoo didn’t waste the opportunity, breaking up two passes while giving up just two catches for 29 yards on the six times he was targeted in coverage.

“One thing you learn is you have a small window of opportunity,” Barcoo said. “Whenever it presents itself, you have to be ready to put your best foot forward and make a play. That's what I focus on and meditate on. Every time I'm out there, it's in the back of my head that I've got to make a play.”

He acknowledges that cornerback can be an easier acclimation than many positions. The Lions play a lot of man-to-man, and most corners are comfortable with Cover-2, Cover-3 and Cover-4 zones. All he has to do is execute and play with the physicality the Lions demand.

“It's straightforward,” Barcoo said. “The big thing here is being physically dominant and making plays. Guard your man and make the play. It's not that difficult scheme-wise. We know what to do. You just have to do it to the best of your ability.

“…I catch on pretty fast,” Barcoo continued. “I'm used to going into a building, getting comfortable and making friends. Everything is already clicking. I'm used to moving around, making friends quickly and adjsting and adapting fast.”

One thing Barcoo and Johnson are grateful for is playing time. Oftentimes, mid-camp signings are brought in to fill practice reps. The Lions are playing each guy they sign, giving them a legitimate chance to showcase their abilities.

“It means the world,” Johnson said. “You're given an opportunity and you obviously have to take advantage of those situations.”

Of course, like every other man on Detroit’s 90-man roster, Johnson and Barcoo are hoping to stick. They're long shots, but it does happen from time to time.

Just last year, the Lions brought in quarterback Jake Fromm in the middle of August, squeezed him into the preseason finale, and he impressed so much in a quarter of playing time that he earned a spot on the practice squad he held all year.

“He digested the whole game plan, knew it inside and out, and went out and made plays,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said. “It’s like you can’t ignore that. That’s what I would say. So, no, it’s not easy. Not everybody can do it, but the ones that all of a sudden just (get it), I mean, they stick out like a sore thumb. Like, ‘Woah. This guy just walked in the door and he knows everything,’ which means that you probably put the time in, you really worked at it to know it, you’re probably pretty aware, there are things about you that you adapt very quickly.

“So those are good things to see and we’re just, like I say, keeping our eye open for everybody that we bring in here to see if there’s something they can do.”
 
Payne said:
I am going to assume most of you who contribute regularly to this thread are not interested in trading for Trey right?

Branch or Campbell and the 2026 1st for Trey?
Truth is, as much as you all want to keep the core, it's not going to happen. They cannot afford it.
However, with $42 million still in cap room, they can pull off this trade and make a run over the next two years.
The cap went up substantially this year and will again next year. They can restructure Goff if needed.
There are moves to be made here. Brad is just choosing not to.

Personally, I think Brad paid the wrong safety. I would have easily traded Joseph and a 1st. But I doubt Cincy wants that contract.
Click to expand...

I would do something like for Parsons and probably have to add another high pick. I wouldn't do it for Trey. I don't think the Bengals get close to that for a return.
 
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