2025 Detroit Lions: 0-0 X-Season in the books. Time for final cuts. (34 Viewers)

[BobbyLayne]

think Hooker is just trolling us now

2/7 20 yards 1 INT with completions only to RB

• 4 plays 20 yards punt
• 3 plays 4 yards punt
• 3 plays 3 yards punt
• 1 play INT
• 6 plays 28 yards downs

had a 25 yard scramble…so there’s that

 

[BobbyLayne]

hope springs eternal

completing passes to 4th/5th string WRs now

 

[BobbyLayne]

4/4 (all short catch n run) passes to WRs

took 2 sacks including 4th down

6/11 70 yards 1 INT

maybe AG will do us a solid and send a conditional 7th

 

[BobbyLayne]

Detroit Lions adding Robert Porcher to 'Pride of the Lions'​

Detroit — For the third consecutive year and fourth time in five, the Detroit Lions are expanding the team’s “Pride of the Lions.” On Saturday, the Lions announced they will be inducting former defensive end Robert Porcher into the exclusive club.

“We are thrilled to cement Robert Porcher’s legacy as one of the all-time Lions greats,” Lions president Rod Wood said in a statement. “…He is incredibly deserving of this honor. He was a model of stability and tenacity as a player and will always be someone our fans and even current players can look up to. We look forward to welcoming Robert back to Ford Field for what will be an extra special celebration.”

A first-round pick out of South Carolina State in 1992 — No. 26 overall — Porcher spent his entire 13-year career with the Lions. He holds the franchise’s official single-season and career sack records, recording 15.0 during the 1999 campaign and 95.5 for his career.

Porcher earned Pro Bowl honors three times (1997, 1999 and 2001) and was named to the Lions’ All-Time team in 2019 as part of the league’s centennial celebration.

Porcher will be the 22nd member of the “Pride of the Lions,” joining recent inductees Calvin Johnson, Lomas Brown and Chris Spielman.

The Lions will formally honor Porcher at halftime of the team’s home opener, Week 2 against Chicago, on Sept. 14.

Pride of the Lions​

* Listed by induction year. The first dozen players were part of the initial class in 2009.

• Cornerback Lem Barney (1967-77)
• Safety Jack Christansen (1951-58)
• Quarterback Dutch Clark (1934-38)
• Offensive lineman Lou Creekmur (1950-59)
• Cornerback Night Train Lane (1960-65)
• Safety Yale Larry (1952-53, 1956-64)
• Quarterback Bobby Layne (1950-58)
• Running back Barry Sanders (1989-98)
• Tight end Charlie Sanders (1968-77)
• Linebacker Joe Schmidt (1953-65)
• Running back Doak Walker (1950-55)
• Offensive lineman Alex Wojciechowicz (1938-46)

• Cornerback D*ck LeBeau (1959-72)
• Kicker Jason Hanson (1992-2012)
• Guard D*ck Stanfel (1952-55)
• Defensive tackle Roger Brown (1960-66)
• Defensive tackle Alex Karras (1958-70)
• Wide receiver Herman Moore (1991-2001)
• Linebacker Chris Spielman (1988-95)
• Offensive tackle Lomas Brown (1985-95)
• Wide receiver Calvin Johnson (2007-15)
• Defensive end Robert Porcher (1992-2004)

 

[BobbyLayne]

Rapid Rewind: Allen sharp, TeSlaa scores again, Texans romp in preseason finale​

Spoiler: cya HH

Detroit — There was already no doubt entering the day. Still, Kyle Allen put an exclamation point on his case to serve as the Detroit Lions’ backup quarterback anyway in the team’s preseason finale against the Houston Texans.

Allen completed all five of his throws, including a 33-yard touchdown to rookie receiver Isaac TeSlaa, exiting the contest with the Lions in front, 7-3.

The rest of Saturday afternoon’s game belonged to the Texans, who rattled off 23 unanswered points to earn the 26-7 victory.

With a handful of roster spots on the line, Detroit’s reserve defenders struggled to make their cases, allowing the Texans to rack up 212 yards and 17 points in the first half.

Texans quarterback Graham Mertz, third on the team’s depth chart, drew the start and completed 14-of-16 for 145 yards and a touchdown while playing the first two quarters. Mertz also ran for two key first downs on a pair of touchdown drives.

The Lions conclude the preseason with a 1-3 record.

Starters​

Offense: Kyle Allen, Craig Reynolds, Shane Zylstra, Zach Horton, Isaac TeSlaa, Tom Kennedy, Giovanni Manu, Netane Muti, Kingsley Eguakun, Kayode Awosika, Dan Skipper

Defense: Al-Quadin Muhammad, Pat O’Connor, Chris Smith, Myles Adams, Trevor Nowaske, Zach Cunningham, Grant Stuard, Allan George, Nick Whiteside, Erick Hallett, Rock Ya-Sin

Game ball​

Allen capped a stellar preseason, completing 26-of-30 passes across the final three games with the 5-for-5 showing against the Texans.

Scoring summary​

First quarter

● 7:12 — With their first possession, the Texans quickly picked up a 24-yard gain on a pass to Xavier Hutchinson, then moved across midfield with an 11-yard scramble by Mertz. However, Detroit’s defense was able to course correct with Adams stuffing a run on third-and-1 before the Texans jumped early ahead of a fourth-down try, ultimately settling for a 53-yard Ka'imi Fairbairn field goal. TEXANS 3, LIONS 0

● 1:52 — After a pair of first-down passes to running back Reynolds, Allen found TeSlaa on a slant for a third-down conversion to keep the series alive. Three snaps later, Allen lofted a perfect deep ball down the right sideline for the touchdown to TeSlaa, capping a 10-play, 85-yard drive. LIONS 7, TEXANS 3

Second quarter

● 12:22 — Taking over at midfield after a long kickoff return, the Texans needed eight plays to retake the lead. Mertz scrambled for another first down, and running back Woody Marks ran through the tackle effort of defensive lineman Keith Cooper in the backfield on the way to a 12-yard scoring romp. TEXANS 10, LIONS 7

● 4:46 — Houston’s offense stayed hot with an 11-play, 89-yard scoring series. A lack of pass-rush pressure hurt the Lions on a 26-yard pass that converted a third-and-11. That was followed up by an 18-yard Dare Ogunbowale run around the right edge, setting up first-and-goal from the 6-yard line. From there, Mertz connected on a fade to former Lions receiver Quintez Cephus, who won the jump ball over cornerback D.J. Miller.

Houston wasn’t able to get the extra point off after a bad snap. TEXANS 16, LIONS 7

Third quarter

● None

Fourth quarter

● 12:58 — Following a Hendon Hooker interception, the Texans extended their lead with a four-play touchdown drive. Quarterback Kedon Slovis found receiver Daniel Jackson on a crossing pattern out of play-action. Lions safety Ian Kennelly appeared to be responsible after a coverage switch, but was late to react. TEXANS 23, LIONS 7

● 6:35 — Taking over with a short field after a failed fourth-point try by the Lions, the Texans picked up a pair of first downs, setting up Fairbairn to knock down a 48-yard field goal. TEXANS 26, LIONS 7

Turnovers​

● Despite getting badly beaten off the line by Cephus, Lions cornerback Tyson Russell was able to intercept the pass early in the fourth when the receiver bobbled the ball.

● On the ensuing snap, Hooker overthrew a well-covered Dominic Lovett across the middle, putting the ball directly into the chest of Texans deep safety Jalen Mills.

Key stats​

● Allen was a perfect 5-for-5 for 66 yards with the touchdown to TeSlaa, posting a perfect passer rating. It's the second time he's accomplished the feat in the past three preseason games.

Hooker’s best pass, a 30-yard completion to Ronnie Bell, was wiped out by a penalty. Hooker finished 6-for-11 for 70 yards and the interception. He was also sacked twice, losing 15 yards.

● TeSlaa caught both of his targets for 41 yards and a touchdown.

● Running back Jacob Saylors was Detroit’s most productive offensive player, tallying 59 yards from scrimmage with nine carries and three receptions.

● Safety Loren Strickland led the defense with nine tackles, including one for a loss. Nowaske chipped in eight stops.

Muhammad had Detroit’s only sack.

Notable​

● The Lions announced former defensive end Robert Porcher would be the 22nd player inducted into the team’s “Pride of the Lions.”

Injuries​

● Linebacker Ezekiel Turner left the game with a lower right leg injury in the third quarter.

Next game​

The Lions will open the regular season against the Packers in Green Bay on Sunday, Sept. 7, at 4:25 p.m.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Dan Campbell postgame presser

 

[BobbyLayne]

DC said C GG is fine, RB Vaki might be a tick longer.

LB Ezekiel Turner is going through testing but suffered a serious injury in today’s game. Word on Twitter is achilles.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Stock report: Two young defenders pop, TeSlaa keeps rolling, while red-hot rookie cools off in Lions' preseason finale​

Spoiler: little of this little of that

Detroit — Here are the players trending up, down or holding steady coming out of Saturday’s preseason finale with the Houston Texans.

Stock up: Linebacker Trevor Nowaske​

Nowaske got his first taste of defensive snaps last season — filling in for an injured Derrick Barnes — and didn’t do much with the opportunity outside of a memorable game-ending sack against Minnesota when he came free on a well-designed blitz.

This offseason, the Lions have evolved Nowaske’s usage to working more off the ball. After a rocky transition, things are starting to come together. On Saturday, he wore the green dot, communicating with the sideline, and regularly found himself around the ball with eight tackles. He’s taking slow and steady steps forward, looking like he could be reliable depth in addition to his quality contributions on special teams.

Stock down: Cornerback Nick Whiteside​

Whiteside came out of nowhere as a mid-camp addition, routinely breaking up passes and even intercepting a couple during his first two weeks with the team. However, he’s faded a bit with some opportunities higher up the depth chart. After a few miscues last week against Miami, the Texans picked on the young cornerback in the first half, completing multiple passes to his coverage assignments.

Treading water: Al-Quadin Muhammad​

The Lions got minimal pressure with the first defensive line grouping in the first half, despite having the Texans in multiple third-and-long situations. Muhammad, the only roster lock among the edge rushers playing on Saturday, didn’t have much of an impact. He did manage to record the team’s lone sack, after Nate Lynn forced quarterback Graham Mertz to step up in the pocket.

Stock up: Linebacker Grant Stuard​

Stuard’s urgent play on defense was fun to watch all preseason. He racked up six tackles against the Texans, playing like his job was on the line, even though it very much wasn’t.

What was even more encouraging was a 44-yard kickoff return, which highlighted what the Lions like about him in the role, despite some ball security snafus as he learns the responsibility. Big and fast is a good combination for what figures to be a chaotic play this season.

Stock down: Wide receiver Jackson Meeks​

Few Lions had more positive momentum entering the finale than Meeks, but the rookie receiver couldn’t sustain it. He didn’t catch a pass, was flagged for an illegal shift on a third-and-1 play — his second procedural penalty in as many games — and didn’t seem to know the touchback rule on a punt that Jack Fox nearly pinned inside the 5-yard line.

It still feels like there’s a reasonably good chance he’s claimed if waived, but this performance might help sneak him through the practice squad if the Lions can’t find room on their initial 53.

Treading water: Wide receiver Ronnie Bell​

Bell quietly had a nice preseason and merits strong consideration for the practice squad if he doesn’t land elsewhere. He caught two passes for 25 yards, but only because he had a 30-yarder wiped off the box score by a holding call.

Stock up: Quarterback Kyle Allen​

What more needs to be said about Allen’s preseason performance? After tossing a couple of interceptions in the Hall of Fame game, he was nearly perfect over the final three games, completing 86.7% of his passes.

That accuracy figure doesn't capture the perfection of his deep touchdown to Isaac TeSlaa, which the veteran QB dropped in a bucket over the receiver’s shoulder, out of reach of a defender with reasonably good coverage on the sideline route.

Stock down: Quarterback Hendon Hooker​

It’s over, at least it should be, regarding Hooker’s run on the main roster. He struggled so much this preseason that he might not even get claimed off waivers, allowing the Lions to continue investing in his development at a far lower cost on their practice squad. That's a steep fall.

Hooker overthrew multiple passes on Saturday. One came on third down, ending a drive, another was intercepted, and the third probably should have been. It was a disappointing showing after a strong week of practice. Of course, that’s been the story of his offseason.

Stock up: Wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa​

Three scores in three games. The momentum stayed on a steady incline throughout TeSlaa’s first offseason. The long touchdown was nice, driving home his potential as a vertical threat. However, I liked the slant he ran on third down before the touchdown just as much.

The rookie had a slick release and overpowered the cornerback at the top of the route, causing him to lose his balance, leading to the easy conversion.

Stock down: Defensive lineman Keith Cooper​

Cooper has done a lot of good things on the practice field, earning the first-team reps he’s been seeing the past couple of weeks. Before the Texans came to town, the undrafted rookie had a pair of impressive run stops in a scrimmage, showcasing his block-shedding ability.

But Cooper hasn’t produced anywhere close to the same level in the preseason games. On Saturday, he had a backside assignment where he seemed to quit on the play after he appeared to be held. Then, in the red zone, he beat his block, but had his tackle attempt broken by the running back on a touchdown run.

I’m not sure what the Lions plan to do with Cooper, but the preseason production has me convinced he could get through waivers without getting claimed.

Treading water: Defensive tackle Myles Adams​

Adams got knocked out of his gap on a long QB sneak up the gut. He rebounded on the drive by anchoring on third-and-1 and stuffing a run short of the marker.

Stock up: Safety Loren Strickland​

Strickland saw most of his defensive action in the second half. He was all over the field during those snaps, making several authoritative tackles to pace the Lions with nine stops. That didn’t go unnoticed by coach Dan Campbell.

“Certainly (Strickland) Strick, he’s a ball-hawk,” Campbell said. “He finds the ball and he did that again, man — two big plays there in the red zone were good to see.”

Stock down: Safety Ian Kennelly​

Playing alongside Strickland, Kennelly had less of an impact, logging only three tackles. More glaring was a coverage lapse, where he was late on a switch in the red zone. By the time Kennelly reacted to the crossing route, he was too far out of position to catch up, surrendering the touchdown.

Stock up: Unemployed edge rusher Za’Darius Smith​

Hopefully, Smith was doing something better with his weekend than watching preseason football. However, if he tuned in, he was reminded how much the Lions could use him to round out the team’s rotation along the defensive line.

Smith showed during his half-season with the Lions in 2024 that he can still regularly affect the quarterback. The team could clearly use a more effective option to partner with Muhammad when starters Aidan Hutchinson or Marcus Davenport need a break. They won’t find many options better than Smith at this stage of the game.

Treading water: Offensive lineman Kingsley Eguakun​

It was a rough opening series for Eguakun, who lost his one-on-one matchup on Detroit’s first two plays, a pair of runs, before getting bulled back into the pocket and shed for a sack on third down.

Eguakun settled in nicely after that stretch, working multiple tandems with effectiveness on a long touchdown drive. Offensive line isn’t a position where you can be a slow starter, and this is the second time we’ve seen that from the second-year center this offseason.

Stock up: Running back Craig Reynolds​

Reynolds capped an excellent preseason with two first-down grabs where he made tacklers miss on both. He also showed great vision and block usage on a run up the middle, sharply cutting upfield, only to lose his footing after gaining 4 yards. He’s quietly taken a step forward with his offensive skill set, increasing the value he brings to the table as insurance behind Detroit’s dynamic starting tandem.

Stock down: Running back Sione Vaki​

The exciting second-year back is back on the shelf after suffering another injury in practice last week. After the game, Campbell implied it won’t be a quick turnaround before Vaki returns to action.

 

[Da Guru]

If Hooker makes the team, it won't be because they aren't sure about Kyle Allen. He just dropped a perfect dime to Teslaa for a TD.

5/5 66 yards TD

passer rating last 3: 158.3, 136.3, 158.3

have seen him enough to know he’s pure trash but he crushed the competition, there is no doubt he earned the backup job

Allen aint the best backup but he is the best we got right now. Still think they will keep Hooker as he has zero trade value right now. Some team might give up a 6th or maybe a 5th if lucky.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

An earlier position breakdown posted had 26 players on offense, 24 on D. I'll agree with those players on offense minus the 3rd QB. So I am guessing 2qb+4rb+7wr+3te+9ol (25).

 

[Leroy Hoard]

Some team might give up a 6th or maybe a 5th if lucky.

SF got a 4th for a former 1st round pick in Lance, so a 6th for a former 3rd might do it.

 

[BobbyLayne]

An earlier position breakdown posted had 26 players on offense, 24 on D. I'll agree with those players on offense minus the 3rd QB. So I am guessing 2qb+4rb+7wr+3te+9ol (25).

Agreed

Honestly feel it is best for everyone, the team as well as Hendon, if we turn the page

 

[nysfl2]

Some team might give up a 6th or maybe a 5th if lucky.

SF got a 4th for a former 1st round pick in Lance, so a 6th for a former 3rd might do it.

I’d be shocked if anyone gave us a pick for Hendon. I’d be less surprised if he cleared waivers altogether.

 

[Zeppelin]

If the Lions cut Hooker and he cleared waivers, would the Lions sign him to the practice squad?

 

[BobbyLayne]

If the Lions cut Hooker and he cleared waivers, would the Lions sign him to the practice squad?

Probably

Although Nate Sudfeld did hit the streets 3 days ago….

 

[rockaction]

Some team might give up a 6th or maybe a 5th if lucky.

SF got a 4th for a former 1st round pick in Lance, so a 6th for a former 3rd might do it.

I’d be shocked if anyone gave us a pick for Hendon. I’d be less surprised if he cleared waivers altogether.

Yeah, I didn’t want to pee on anybody’s umbrella but that’s quite the hopeful request. Maybe some GM owes Detroit a favor?

 

[Leroy Hoard]

An earlier position breakdown posted had 26 players on offense, 24 on D. I'll agree with those players on offense minus the 3rd QB. So I am guessing 2qb+4rb+7wr+3te+9ol (25).

Agreed

Honestly feel it is best for everyone, the team as well as Hendon, if we turn the page

Yes, I'm more concerned with the season ahead over someone who's never started an NFL game.

 

[BobbyLayne]

note: does not include Za’Darius Smith who is still expected (hoped) will sign

Final Detroit Lions' 53-man roster projection as 2025 offseason draws to a close​

Spoiler: OFFENSE GL HH, sorry it came to this

Allen Park — We’ve reached the finish line and the evaluations are complete. The Detroit Lions now must sift through all the gathered data and internal projections, paring their 91-man offseason roster to 53 players by Tuesday’s 4 p.m. deadline.

As a reminder, players who started camp on the non-football injury or physically unable to perform list may remain there without counting against the 53-man tally.

The league also allows two injured players to be placed on injured reserve with a designation to return, simultaneous with roster cuts. Those two players would have to miss at least the first four regular-season games, but they won't count against the 53. This setup is different than previous years, where the player would need to remain on the roster for 24 hours before shifting to IR, temporarily eating up a roster spot.

On to our projection.

Quarterbacks (2)​

In: Jared Goff, Kyle Allen

Out: Hendon Hooker

Practice squad potential: Hooker

Analysis: Sure, we could do some roster gymnastics and find room to keep Hooker on the 53-man roster, but what’s the point? With only one year under contract after this one, he provided little reason beyond the practice field to invest something so valuable into his continued development.

This is admittedly a late shift for me. I genuinely thought general manager Brad Holmes would give his draft pick a longer leash. However, after a fourth straight preseason dud, it’s become an impossible case to make.

If Hooker makes it back to the practice squad, great. That said, Holmes should rest easy if Hooker gets claimed after posting a sub-40 passer rating in three of the four preseason games, while losing two fumbles in the one he didn’t.

Allen, on the other hand, won the job with such emphasis that he provides an unexpected calm to Detroit’s backup situation. If Goff were to go down for a half or even need to miss a start, Allen’s poise and accuracy are reassuring. He completed nearly 80% of his throws in the four preseason games, posting an impressive 123.6 passer rating. The best part is it wasn’t just a bunch of checkdowns. He uncorked some pretty deep shots during the audition.

Running back (4)​

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

Out: Jacob Saylors, Deon Jackson

Practice squad potential: Saylors

Analysis: The backfield situation remained consistent from the start of the offseason until the final whistle of the preseason finale, even if sentiments about the individuals may have evolved.

Specifically, Reynolds looked as good as ever this offseason, even if his preseason stats don’t reflect the development. He’s better between the tackles and running routes, providing an upgrade as the insurance he gives the Lions behind the starting tandem.

Vaki, meanwhile, also looked improved in the limited practice time we got to see him. But that’s the problem. He couldn’t stay healthy, limiting him to part of one preseason game. He won’t have as many opportunities to develop now that the season is here, likely capping his offensive potential for a second straight season.

There isn’t really any justification for a fifth back. Still, Saylors, the UFL’s leading rusher in the spring, is a physical runner worthy of the practice squad spot primarily held by Jermar Jefferson the past few seasons.

Wide receivers (7)​

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

Out: Tom Kennedy, Ronnie Bell, Jakobie Keeney-James, Malik Taylor

Practice squad potential: Kennedy, Bell

Analysis: Initially toying with the idea of keeping seven receivers in my previous projection, I was able to make it work again without much difficulty after working my way through the rest of the roster.

The logic remains the same: Lovett and Meeks have long-term potential as Patrick and Raymond, two of the oldest receivers in the league, enter the final year of their contracts. And unlike some of the other back-of-the-roster talent the Lions have kept in recent years, Lovett and Meeks can capably contribute early if needed, whether on offense or special teams, where they have wide-ranging abilities.

A quick look around the league reveals there’s an appetite for receiving talent. Exposing Meeks to waivers, the likely scenario if the Lions go with six, is risky.

Tight ends (3)​

In: Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Shane Zylstra

Out: Zach Horton, Steven Stilianos, Gunnar Oakes

Practice squad potential: Horton

Analysis: Detroit didn’t hold Zylstra out of the preseason finale. Still, he was able to take a seat after playing 10 snaps in the opening quarter of the contest. The guy might not have stuffed the stat sheet during the team’s four exhibition contests. Nonetheless, there was readily apparent growth throughout the offseason.

That included a quietly growing chemistry with Goff, who shows plenty of trust in Zylstra on third downs and in the red zone during practices.

What hammered home Zylstra's potential for me was observing his ability to create late separation in one-on-one drills. A highly productive college receiver at Minnesota State several years ago, he has continued to refine that facet of his skill set.

Offensive line (9)​

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

Out: Netane Muti, Jamarco Jones, Zack Johnson, Mason Miller, Michael Niese, Gunner Britton

Injured: Miles Frazier, Trystan Colon

Practice squad potential: Muti, Jones, Niese, Miller

Analysis: Would you like to see more reliable offensive line depth? Sure. Is that statement true of all 32 teams? Absolutely.

If nothing else, Detroit has experience and continuity with the unit's likely backups. Skipper has started several games and logged more than 800 snaps the past three seasons. On the inside, Awoiska has logged seven starts during that same three-year stretch.

The biggest question mark is the backup center, where Eguakun emerged as the best option, even if it was by default after Colon suffered an elbow injury in the team's second preseason game. The versatile veteran looked to be inching closer to a return this past week, running on the side under the supervision of a trainer during practice. The team could slide him on injured reserve with a designation to return, adding some insurance to the youthful interior.

​

​

 

[BobbyLayne]

Spoiler: DEFENSE - BM, you ever consider eating more salads?

Edge defenders (4)​

In: Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Nate Lynn*

Out: Isaac Ukwu, Mitchell Agude

Injured: Josh Paschal, Ahmed Hassanein

Practice squad potential: Ukwu, Lynn

Analysis: Witnessing a frustrating lack of pass-rush production during the preseason finale, I posted on social media that I was strongly considering putting free agent Za’Darius Smith on my 53-man projection.

There was some truth to the jestful comment. Following Hassanein’s injury, the path is clear to re-add last year’s trade deadline acquisition, and I don’t think there’s any denying the Lions would benefit from a little more pocket disruption on the depth chart.

Do I anticipate a deal getting done ahead of Tuesday afternoon’s cutdown deadline? Not necessarily. So, for the time being, I’m giving the spot to Lynn while using one of those two IR spots for Hassanein. The rookie is expected to be down for a bit with the pec injury he suffered earlier this month.

Lynn is still developing and doesn’t have massive upside. However, he showed he can bring a little something to the pass-rush with double-digit pressures and a sack during the preseason, even if I'm skeptical it will translate against starting-caliber offensive tackles. On the plus side, he has the right body type to contribute to multiple special teams, enhancing his game-day value.

Defensive tackles (6)​

In: DJ Reader, Tyleik Williams, Pat O’Connor, Roy Lopez, Chris Smith, Mekhi Wingo

Out: Keith Cooper Jr., Myles Adams, Brodric Martin

Injured: Alim McNeill

Practice squad potential: Cooper, Adams, Martin

Analysis: Here’s where I anticipate differing from some of my colleagues.

Wingo’s activation off the physically unable to perform list admittedly threw a wrench in my previous projections. By getting medical clearance so late in the offseason, he received zero team reps in the two practices he participated in and wasn’t active for Saturday’s game.

I asked Campbell about Wingo ahead of Thursday’s practice, which failed to add any clarity to the situation.

“He’s done all he can do to this point, and now it’s time for football to see where he’s at,” Campbell said. “I mean, it’s tough. It’s tough. There’s no easy answer to that. I don’t know if we can find out fast enough, so we have to make a decision there.”

Wingo has an unconventional body type for the position, and his production as a rookie last year was nondescript. It’s reasonable to think the team could get him through waivers. However, with Detroit’s former defensive coordinator running the Jets, and Wingo’s position coach from last season, Terrell Williams, now the d-coordinator in New England, that familiarity adds some risk to the equation. For that reason, I have Wingo making it.

I’m also going with Smith over camp darling Cooper. Yes, Cooper saw a lot of first-team work as an inside/outside option in the schematic mold of Paschal. Regardless, the undrafted rookie’s preseason performance was consistently underwhelming. Because his best work came on the practice field, away from the eyes of other teams' talent evaluators, it’s unlikely he gets claimed. That will allow the Lions to retain him on the practice squad and continue his development there.

Smith also got plenty of work with the first-team defense and was the go-to choice whenever Williams missed time or needed a breather. I thought Smith had a slow start to camp, but one of the stronger surges across the finish line. That matters.

As for someone who can fill the inside-out role up front, it’ll be O’Connor. He can line up anywhere across the front and give you good work, even if his best contributions on the edge will be against the run.

Linebackers (6)​

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

Out: Anthony Pittman, DaRon Gilbert

Injured: Malcolm Rodriguez, Ezekiel Turner

Practice squad potential: Pittman, Gilbert

Analysis: The corps has been relatively stable since Cunningham made a strong impression at the start of camp.

The starting trio needs no introduction, while commentary will be limited. We know Anzalone is all-in for this year after having the final year of his contract guaranteed. However, that tweak to the deal's language formally puts the kibosh on extension talks until next offseason per CBA guidelines.

As for Barnes, who netted a sparkling three-year contract this past offseason, the Lions are tweaking his role once again. After spending 2024's camp working from the line of scrimmage, he’s primarily back to operating off the ball. The most exciting component of that shift is his potential as a blitzer, which really extends to the entire starting group.

With the backups, Stuard is awesome. I’m a big fan of what he brings to the table, both the skill set and the emotional energy. He flies around the field, loves to hit, and has exceptional first-step quickness. He’s an underrated offseason addition who provides depth and elite special teams contributions, potentially even as a kick returner. There's legitimate fan favorite potential here.

Meanwhile, Nowaske quietly had some of the biggest developmental growth this offseason. He’s diagnosing better, putting him in positions to make more stops in the run game. Plus, he has a knack for the blitzing element of the position.

This is a strong group. And at some point in October, maybe early November, the depth will only get better with the reintroduction of Rodriguez, who remains on the fast track back from last year’s ACL tear.

As noted in my previous projection, I hated having to cut Ezekiel Turner. I think highly of his special teams production, which will matter more this season with the kickoff rule adjustments. Unfortunately, the decision was likely taken out of the Lions' hands after he suffered a potential Achilles injury in Saturday’s game.

Defensive backs (9)​

In: Terrion Arnold, DJ Reed, Amik Robertson, Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, Rock Ya-Sin, Avonte Maddox, Khalil Dorsey, Loren Strickland

Out: Luq Barcoo, Allan George, D.J. Miller, Tyson Russell, Nick Whiteside, Erick Hallett, Ian Kennelly, Morice Norris

Injured: Ennis Rakestraw, Dan Jackson

Practice squad potential: Hallett, Russell, Whiteside, Kennelly, Norris, George

Analysis: The starting five, including Robertson in the slot, has effectively been set in stone since the start of camp. It’s the depth that’s been fluid and one of the most interesting areas to follow.

At the start of camp, Maddox was safety three, while Rakestraw and Ya-Sin were primed to battle to be the first outside corner off the bench, at least until Rakestraw went down with an injury.

Then, further down the depth chart, what was supposed to be a five-horse race for a fourth safety job saw one horse drop out early when Hallett was shifted to the slot. Then it was three when Jackson was lost for the season. Norris’ scary concussion in the second preseason game thinned the situation out even further.

There has been more deck shuffling, beyond Hallett. Ya-Sin unexpectedly shifted to safety, despite no prior experience, and Maddox flipped back to cornerback, more specifically, nickel. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard suddenly has a lot of versatility at his disposal.

Maddox and Ya-Sin are no-brainers for roster spots. The additions have delivered on expectations after signing this offseason. And we’re comfortable sliding Khalil Dorsey into the mix, as well, following his recent activation from the PUP list. He’s been one of the best gunners in the league, playing a prominent role on Detroit’s record-setting punt coverage unit in 2024.

With the final spot, we’re flipping from Kennelly to Strickland. It was a close call all camp, but we were swayed by Strickland’s strong finish in Saturday’s game, where he racked up nine tackles. Kennelly, the Michigan native and former Grand Valley State standout, has undeniable promise with a prototypical build and elite athleticism. Still, he needs a little more seasoning before he’s ready to contribute, and there's minimal risk he gets claimed off waivers. Strickland, who saw time on special teams last year, can help those units now if active on game day.

Hallett is my toughest cut. He showcased so much unexpected versatility through camp. If the Lions opt to keep six receivers, which would be a reasonable approach, he's who I'm adding in place of Meeks/Lovett.

Specialists (3)​

In: Jack Fox, Jake Bates, Hogan Hatten

Out: None

Practice squad potential: None

Analysis: Fox is elite. Bates has the potential to be and is off to a great start to his career, making 26-of-29 field goals last season, including a long of 58. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him knock one down from 60 or longer this season, if the opportunity presents itself.

And did you see Hatten get down the field and make a stop in punt coverage on Saturday? It won’t get talked about much, because long snappers rarely do, but his athleticism is unique and a weapon.

 

[Da Guru]

TV

I’m not a Lions fan but pay attention slightly due to family. Why are people talking about Hooker in here when he was inactive Saturday behind a qb who was coaching high school football a few weeks ago?

No Lions fans are. Football Jones who says he is a Cowboy fan has an obsession with Goff and Hooker.

As always let the best player start be it Goff, Teddy or Hooker. With Goff starting the first year of his new deal next season looks like he has at least 2 years more as the starter.

The fact the Lions begged Teddy in week 14 to come back as the backup and made Hooker inactive tells me all I need to know.

Not counting on it but I really hope Hooker is the next Daniels so the decisions are difficult.

I’m a football fan. You can be interested in things outside your favorite team, lol.

More people are waking up to the Goff/Hooker situation. It’s no longer just me. Actually, there were always people besides me who were wondering about it, but I guess I was the most vocal. It’s a thing now.

The problem with Goff is he’s good enough to beat up on lesser teams and pad his stats with all the weapons he’s got, plus a great OL, but in the playoffs, when everything speeds up and you’re also going against the best players and coaches, Goff lacks the athleticism (as in none) to make a difference. Plus, it’s not like he’s got top-tier arm talent. It’s a bad combination to try to win a title with in today’s NFL. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible with Goff, but the odds are very discouraging. Look at the 4 QBs left…

It’s time for Detroit to give serious consideration to moving on from Goff in some fashion. Hooker may not ultimately make it, but he has some qualities that could take their offense to the next level and get them over the hump. Do you want to win a bunch of regular season games or do you want to win a title? Windows close quickly in the NFL. Time is ticking and that’s not something that’s negotiable.

The "Goff/Hooker" situation has been resolved. Hooker is back on the streets.

Dallas looking for a mobile backup? Dak has a bad ankle and tore his hammy off the bone last season.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Cuts
● Edge Mitchell Agude
Reported by ESPN
● QB Hendon Hooker
Reported by Jordan Schultz
● WR Tom Kennedy
Reported by the Detroit Free Press
● S Ian Kennelly
Reported by Aaron Wilson
● LB Anthony Pittman
Reported by the Detroit Free Press

Roster is at 86

 

[Ilov80s]

TV

I’m not a Lions fan but pay attention slightly due to family. Why are people talking about Hooker in here when he was inactive Saturday behind a qb who was coaching high school football a few weeks ago?

No Lions fans are. Football Jones who says he is a Cowboy fan has an obsession with Goff and Hooker.

As always let the best player start be it Goff, Teddy or Hooker. With Goff starting the first year of his new deal next season looks like he has at least 2 years more as the starter.

The fact the Lions begged Teddy in week 14 to come back as the backup and made Hooker inactive tells me all I need to know.

Not counting on it but I really hope Hooker is the next Daniels so the decisions are difficult.

I’m a football fan. You can be interested in things outside your favorite team, lol.

More people are waking up to the Goff/Hooker situation. It’s no longer just me. Actually, there were always people besides me who were wondering about it, but I guess I was the most vocal. It’s a thing now.

The problem with Goff is he’s good enough to beat up on lesser teams and pad his stats with all the weapons he’s got, plus a great OL, but in the playoffs, when everything speeds up and you’re also going against the best players and coaches, Goff lacks the athleticism (as in none) to make a difference. Plus, it’s not like he’s got top-tier arm talent. It’s a bad combination to try to win a title with in today’s NFL. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible with Goff, but the odds are very discouraging. Look at the 4 QBs left…

It’s time for Detroit to give serious consideration to moving on from Goff in some fashion. Hooker may not ultimately make it, but he has some qualities that could take their offense to the next level and get them over the hump. Do you want to win a bunch of regular season games or do you want to win a title? Windows close quickly in the NFL. Time is ticking and that’s not something that’s negotiable.

The "Goff/Hooker" situation has been resolved. Hooker is back on the streets.

Dallas looking for a mobile backup? Dak has a bad ankle and tore his hammy off the bone last season.

Don't they have Joe Milton? He's erratic as all hell but has probably shown more than Hooker has.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Hope we can resign Kennelly to the practice squad; had a great camp, but Strickland surged late and had 9 tackles in the 4th PS g. But Ian had a nice run stop v the Texans; stacked a RB in the gap and gave him the John Cena treatment. He should clear waivers, though - definitely a good developmental guy to keep around.

Kennedy will still be on the practice squad when I’m no longer feeding myself.

Hooker played awful, Agude had zero pressures in 76 preseason snaps, and Pittman had a team high 5 missed tackles. The K guys was a numbers thing, but these 3 were all performance based.

 

[BobbyLayne]

TV

I’m not a Lions fan but pay attention slightly due to family. Why are people talking about Hooker in here when he was inactive Saturday behind a qb who was coaching high school football a few weeks ago?

No Lions fans are. Football Jones who says he is a Cowboy fan has an obsession with Goff and Hooker.

As always let the best player start be it Goff, Teddy or Hooker. With Goff starting the first year of his new deal next season looks like he has at least 2 years more as the starter.

The fact the Lions begged Teddy in week 14 to come back as the backup and made Hooker inactive tells me all I need to know.

Not counting on it but I really hope Hooker is the next Daniels so the decisions are difficult.

I’m a football fan. You can be interested in things outside your favorite team, lol.

More people are waking up to the Goff/Hooker situation. It’s no longer just me. Actually, there were always people besides me who were wondering about it, but I guess I was the most vocal. It’s a thing now.

The problem with Goff is he’s good enough to beat up on lesser teams and pad his stats with all the weapons he’s got, plus a great OL, but in the playoffs, when everything speeds up and you’re also going against the best players and coaches, Goff lacks the athleticism (as in none) to make a difference. Plus, it’s not like he’s got top-tier arm talent. It’s a bad combination to try to win a title with in today’s NFL. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible with Goff, but the odds are very discouraging. Look at the 4 QBs left…

It’s time for Detroit to give serious consideration to moving on from Goff in some fashion. Hooker may not ultimately make it, but he has some qualities that could take their offense to the next level and get them over the hump. Do you want to win a bunch of regular season games or do you want to win a title? Windows close quickly in the NFL. Time is ticking and that’s not something that’s negotiable.

The "Goff/Hooker" situation has been resolved. Hooker is back on the streets.

Dallas looking for a mobile backup? Dak has a bad ankle and tore his hammy off the bone last season.

Don't they have Joe Milton? He's erratic as all hell but has probably shown more than Hooker has.

Joe Milton could through a football right through both sides of a wood barn.

Questionable he could hit a barn, but still one of the biggest arms in the NFL.

 

[Ilov80s]

TV

I’m not a Lions fan but pay attention slightly due to family. Why are people talking about Hooker in here when he was inactive Saturday behind a qb who was coaching high school football a few weeks ago?

No Lions fans are. Football Jones who says he is a Cowboy fan has an obsession with Goff and Hooker.

As always let the best player start be it Goff, Teddy or Hooker. With Goff starting the first year of his new deal next season looks like he has at least 2 years more as the starter.

The fact the Lions begged Teddy in week 14 to come back as the backup and made Hooker inactive tells me all I need to know.

Not counting on it but I really hope Hooker is the next Daniels so the decisions are difficult.

I’m a football fan. You can be interested in things outside your favorite team, lol.

More people are waking up to the Goff/Hooker situation. It’s no longer just me. Actually, there were always people besides me who were wondering about it, but I guess I was the most vocal. It’s a thing now.

The problem with Goff is he’s good enough to beat up on lesser teams and pad his stats with all the weapons he’s got, plus a great OL, but in the playoffs, when everything speeds up and you’re also going against the best players and coaches, Goff lacks the athleticism (as in none) to make a difference. Plus, it’s not like he’s got top-tier arm talent. It’s a bad combination to try to win a title with in today’s NFL. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible with Goff, but the odds are very discouraging. Look at the 4 QBs left…

It’s time for Detroit to give serious consideration to moving on from Goff in some fashion. Hooker may not ultimately make it, but he has some qualities that could take their offense to the next level and get them over the hump. Do you want to win a bunch of regular season games or do you want to win a title? Windows close quickly in the NFL. Time is ticking and that’s not something that’s negotiable.

The "Goff/Hooker" situation has been resolved. Hooker is back on the streets.

Dallas looking for a mobile backup? Dak has a bad ankle and tore his hammy off the bone last season.

Don't they have Joe Milton? He's erratic as all hell but has probably shown more than Hooker has.

Joe Milton could through a football right through both sides of a wood barn.

Questionable he could hit a barn, but still one of the biggest arms in the NFL.

I am not sure Hooker would even see the barn

 

[BobbyLayne]

TV

I’m not a Lions fan but pay attention slightly due to family. Why are people talking about Hooker in here when he was inactive Saturday behind a qb who was coaching high school football a few weeks ago?

No Lions fans are. Football Jones who says he is a Cowboy fan has an obsession with Goff and Hooker.

As always let the best player start be it Goff, Teddy or Hooker. With Goff starting the first year of his new deal next season looks like he has at least 2 years more as the starter.

The fact the Lions begged Teddy in week 14 to come back as the backup and made Hooker inactive tells me all I need to know.

Not counting on it but I really hope Hooker is the next Daniels so the decisions are difficult.

I’m a football fan. You can be interested in things outside your favorite team, lol.

More people are waking up to the Goff/Hooker situation. It’s no longer just me. Actually, there were always people besides me who were wondering about it, but I guess I was the most vocal. It’s a thing now.

The problem with Goff is he’s good enough to beat up on lesser teams and pad his stats with all the weapons he’s got, plus a great OL, but in the playoffs, when everything speeds up and you’re also going against the best players and coaches, Goff lacks the athleticism (as in none) to make a difference. Plus, it’s not like he’s got top-tier arm talent. It’s a bad combination to try to win a title with in today’s NFL. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible with Goff, but the odds are very discouraging. Look at the 4 QBs left…

It’s time for Detroit to give serious consideration to moving on from Goff in some fashion. Hooker may not ultimately make it, but he has some qualities that could take their offense to the next level and get them over the hump. Do you want to win a bunch of regular season games or do you want to win a title? Windows close quickly in the NFL. Time is ticking and that’s not something that’s negotiable.

The "Goff/Hooker" situation has been resolved. Hooker is back on the streets.

Dallas looking for a mobile backup? Dak has a bad ankle and tore his hammy off the bone last season.

Don't they have Joe Milton? He's erratic as all hell but has probably shown more than Hooker has.

Joe Milton could through a football right through both sides of a wood barn.

Questionable he could hit a barn, but still one of the biggest arms in the NFL.

I am not sure Hooker would even see the barn

Would probably either fumble as he wound up or bail out directly into the arms of a pass rusher.

Hendon is good guy with a lot of connections, if playing doesn’t work out the football world is still his oyster. Coaching, broadcasting, any number of things. He’ll be fine. Always liked him but I think getting replaced by Teddy for the playoffs shattered his confidence.

 

[Zeppelin]

Dan Skipper cut.

 

[BobbyLayne]

oh wow

● OT Dan Skipper
In the first stunner of cut season, the Lions have informed Skipper he’s being released. The veteran offensive tackle has spent the majority of his career with the Lions, starting 11 games the past three seasons. He opened training camp serving as the left tackle with the first-team offense while Taylor Decker recovered from offseason shoulder surgery.

Skipper missed some time in camp with an ankle injury, but he still started three of the team’s preseason games, one at left tackle, two at right tackle.

In addition to his work at offensive tackle, Skipper has acted as a blocking tight end in jumbo packages, even catching a touchdown pass during the 2024 season.

 

[BobbyLayne]

OFFENSE 25 24 players

• 2 QB Goff, Allen
• 4 RB Gibbs, DMo, Craig, Vaki
• 7 6 WR ARSB, Jamo, Patrick, Raymond, TeSlaa, Lovett, Meeks
• 3 TE LaPorta, Wright, Zylstra
• 9 OL Deck, Dirtbag, GG, Mullett, Penei + Skip, DeMarco Jones (?), Manu, Awosika, backup C (Colon if healthy Eguakun if not)

DEFENSE 25 26 IDK HOW MANY players

• 5 6 DI DJR, Tyleik, Lopez, O’Connor, Cooper, Wingo +1 (Cooper over Adams, Smith & Wingo)
• 4 ED Hutch, Davenport, AQM, +1 (Lynn, Za’Darius or Ukwu)
• 6 LB AA, Campbell, Barnes, Cunningham, Nowaske, Stuard
• 6 CB TA, DJR, Amik, Ya-Sin, Maddox, Dorsey
• 4 S BB, Kerby, Strickland, +1 (Hallett over Norris)

SPECIAL TEAMS

• 3 Specialists Bates, Mr Jack Fox, Hogan

Think that’s where we’re headed.

Wrong!!

But NGL, Dan Skipper is a Skip & Meeks were a big surprise.

Hallett cut. I give up.

 

[Zeppelin]

Jackson Meeks cut per Dave Birkett.

 

[BobbyLayne]

FMTT

hope we get him back

● WR Jackson Meeks
Reported by the Detroit News

Despite a pair of outstanding preseason performances, as well as a number of strong plays on the practice field, the Lions are parting ways — at least temporarily — with the undrafted rookie out of Syracuse.

Meeks was admittedly a no-show in the preseason finale, but in the previous two games, he hauled in 10 passes for 171 yards and two scores.

Obviously, if the 6-foot-2, 218-pounder clears waivers, he’d be a strong addition to Detroit's practice squad due to his contested-catch ability, run blocking and special teams potential.

 

[King of the Jungle]

OFFENSE 25 players

• 2 QB Goff, Allen
• 4 RB Gibbs, DMo, Craig, Vaki
• 7 WR ARSB, Jamo, Patrick, Raymond, TeSlaa, Lovett, Meeks
• 3 TE LaPorta, Wright, Zylstra
• 9 OL Deck, Dirtbag, GG, Mullett, Penei + Skip, DeMarco Jones (?), Manu, Awosika, backup C (Colon if healthy Eguakun if not)

DEFENSE 25 players

• 5 DI DJR, Tyleik, Lopez, O’Connor +1 (Cooper over Adams, Smith & Wingo)
• 4 ED Hutch, Davenport, AQM, +1 (Lynn, Za’Darius or Ukwu)
• 6 LB AA, Campbell, Barnes, Cunningham, Nowaske, Stuard
• 6 CB TA, DJR, Amik, Ya-Sin, Maddox, Dorsey
• 4 S BB, Kerby, Strickland, +1 (Hallett over Norris)

SPECIAL TEAMS

• 3 Specialists Bates, Mr Jack Fox, Hogan

Think that’s where we’re headed. But NGL, Dan Skipper is a big surprise.

Oline is thin past the starters. Do you know when Miles Frazier is expected back?

 

[Zeppelin]

From Pride of Detroit:

Another option to consider is that, because Skipper is a veteran, he could be coming back to the roster soon. Oftentimes, a veteran is released with an unwritten agreement that they will sign back with the team after some necessary roster maneuvering. At the very least, the Lions seem likely to bring Skipper back on the practice squad.

This makes a whole lot of sense. I guess we'll see.

 

[rockaction]

I'm surprised Meeks and Kennelly got cut. I'm bummed. That's why you don't follow this stuff, I guess. I was pulling for both. Kennelly was like the walk-ons of walk-ons. He basically tried out at a McDonald's.

Okay, I'm making that up, but he might as well have.

 

[BobbyLayne]

OFFENSE 25 players

• 2 QB Goff, Allen
• 4 RB Gibbs, DMo, Craig, Vaki
• 7 WR ARSB, Jamo, Patrick, Raymond, TeSlaa, Lovett, Meeks
• 3 TE LaPorta, Wright, Zylstra
• 9 OL Deck, Dirtbag, GG, Mullett, Penei + Skip, DeMarco Jones (?), Manu, Awosika, backup C (Colon if healthy Eguakun if not)

DEFENSE 25 players

• 5 DI DJR, Tyleik, Lopez, O’Connor +1 (Cooper over Adams, Smith & Wingo)
• 4 ED Hutch, Davenport, AQM, +1 (Lynn, Za’Darius or Ukwu)
• 6 LB AA, Campbell, Barnes, Cunningham, Nowaske, Stuard
• 6 CB TA, DJR, Amik, Ya-Sin, Maddox, Dorsey
• 4 S BB, Kerby, Strickland, +1 (Hallett over Norris)

SPECIAL TEAMS

• 3 Specialists Bates, Mr Jack Fox, Hogan

Think that’s where we’re headed. But NGL, Dan Skipper is a big surprise.

Oline is thin past the starters. Do you know when Miles Frazier is expected back?

No updates in the last 5 weeks

Active/Physically unable to perform

Offensive lineman Miles Frazier

Updated: July 22

The rookie has been out of action since late May with a knee injury. On July 22, Campbell estimated Frazier wouldn’t be back until September or October.

 

[BobbyLayne]

I'm surprised Meeks and Kennelly got cut. I'm bummed. That's why you don't follow this stuff, I guess. I was pulling for both. Kennelly was like the walk-ons of walk-ons. He basically tried out at a McDonald's.

same same

 

[BobbyLayne]

From Pride of Detroit:

Another option to consider is that, because Skipper is a veteran, he could be coming back to the roster soon. Oftentimes, a veteran is released with an unwritten agreement that they will sign back with the team after some necessary roster maneuvering. At the very least, the Lions seem likely to bring Skipper back on the practice squad.

This makes a whole lot of sense. I guess we'll see.

Around the league it’s called the Handshake Squad. Ravens always have a handful of vets & returning practice squad who play ball, Holmes picked up on that & started employing the tactic last year or 2023.

Borderline stuff so nobody talks about it or acknowledges it’s a thing.

 

[rockaction]

I'm surprised Meeks and Kennelly got cut. I'm bummed. That's why you don't follow this stuff, I guess. I was pulling for both. Kennelly was like the walk-ons of walk-ons. He basically tried out at a McDonald's.

same same

It's why I don't give you guff. Nobody takes this more to heart than you do, BL. You also manage to see the humanity and reality at the same time. I can appreciate that perspective. Best of luck. Meeks might not clear waivers, but Kennelly likely will. Local kid, right? Nobody knows about him still.

 

[BobbyLayne]

I'm surprised Meeks and Kennelly got cut. I'm bummed. That's why you don't follow this stuff, I guess. I was pulling for both. Kennelly was like the walk-ons of walk-ons. He basically tried out at a McDonald's.

same same

It's why I don't give you guff. Nobody takes this more to heart than you do, BL. You also manage to see the humanity and reality at the same time. I can appreciate that perspective. Best of luck. Meeks might not clear waivers, but Kennelly likely will. Local kid, right? Nobody knows about him still.

No lies detected

Yeah, it’s rough on the coaches, but even beat writer Justin Rogers acknowledges it’s hard for him, too. You’re supposed to be an impartial observer as a writer but it’s only natural to form connections with these guys. Especially the fringe guys just trying to keep the dream alive & willing to do anything to get a shot.

Close friend is 1st cousins with Josh Ferguson, Colts UDFA RB from the class of 2016. He flashed but injuries derailed him. 5 teams in 4 years, career was around 30 g but pretty sure he never made a 53 man out of TC.

It’s devastating. Takes a really strong person to take a shot & be told you’re not good enough…and not giving up but keep on chasing.

 

[BobbyLayne]

• DB Erick Hallett

Believed to be in the mix for the final safety job, the Lions shifted Hallett to cornerback at the start of training camp. After spending most of last season on Detroit's practice squad, he impressed with his versatility this offseason, lining up all over the field during the preseason and making a number of plays. He recorded 16 tackles and three pass breakups.

• RB Jacob Saylors

The UFL's leading rusher in the spring, Saylors joined the Lions mid-camp and shouldered the biggest backfield workload, pacing the roster with 33 carries for 112 yards, while chipping in seven catches (on nine targets) for another 52 yards.

"I’ve said this before, I kind of like Saylors, and I mean that in a good way," Lions coach Dan Campbell said after the preseason finale.

"There’s something about him. ...He’s pretty crafty, pretty nifty. He’s got detail to what he does – the runs, the landmarks, the check downs. There’s something there and we like him."

• CB Nick Whiteside
Reported by the Detroit News

Whiteside joined the Lions in late July and immediately flashed his ball skills, intercepting a pass in his first practice with the team. That turned into a ballhawking stretch where he was routinely getting his hands on the ball, including another interception in one of the joint sessions with the Dolphins. But after putting himself in the mix for a roster spot, Whiteside faded down the stretch, including a rough showing in the preseason finale, where he allowed seven catches for 94 yards on eight targets while in coverage.

10 cuts - 81 players on the roster, 28 to go.

Waivers takes one day to claim or clear. 16 players will be signed to the practice squad.

 

[BobbyLayne]

As an accounting/finance executive we had to go through a couple of really challenging RIFs. Two weeks after 9/11 our venture capitalists forced us to go from 360 to 125. Took three days of meetings: me, head of HR, the CEO, and the applicable department head of each employee. 10 hours for three straight days, went through a case of tissues, ordered in lunch. Man did that suck.

Can’t believe mother****ers do that via email these days.

 

[Zeppelin]

• DB Erick Hallett

Believed to be in the mix for the final safety job, the Lions shifted Hallett to cornerback at the start of training camp. After spending most of last season on Detroit's practice squad, he impressed with his versatility this offseason, lining up all over the field during the preseason and making a number of plays. He recorded 16 tackles and three pass breakups.

• RB Jacob Saylors

The UFL's leading rusher in the spring, Saylors joined the Lions mid-camp and shouldered the biggest backfield workload, pacing the roster with 33 carries for 112 yards, while chipping in seven catches (on nine targets) for another 52 yards.

"I’ve said this before, I kind of like Saylors, and I mean that in a good way," Lions coach Dan Campbell said after the preseason finale.

"There’s something about him. ...He’s pretty crafty, pretty nifty. He’s got detail to what he does – the runs, the landmarks, the check downs. There’s something there and we like him."

• CB Nick Whiteside
Reported by the Detroit News

Whiteside joined the Lions in late July and immediately flashed his ball skills, intercepting a pass in his first practice with the team. That turned into a ballhawking stretch where he was routinely getting his hands on the ball, including another interception in one of the joint sessions with the Dolphins. But after putting himself in the mix for a roster spot, Whiteside faded down the stretch, including a rough showing in the preseason finale, where he allowed seven catches for 94 yards on eight targets while in coverage.

10 cuts - 81 players on the roster, 28 to go.

Waivers takes one day to claim or clear. 16 players will be signed to the practice squad.

I think all 3 of these guys will be signed to the practice squad.

 

[BobbyLayne]

• DB Erick Hallett

Believed to be in the mix for the final safety job, the Lions shifted Hallett to cornerback at the start of training camp. After spending most of last season on Detroit's practice squad, he impressed with his versatility this offseason, lining up all over the field during the preseason and making a number of plays. He recorded 16 tackles and three pass breakups.

• RB Jacob Saylors

The UFL's leading rusher in the spring, Saylors joined the Lions mid-camp and shouldered the biggest backfield workload, pacing the roster with 33 carries for 112 yards, while chipping in seven catches (on nine targets) for another 52 yards.

"I’ve said this before, I kind of like Saylors, and I mean that in a good way," Lions coach Dan Campbell said after the preseason finale.

"There’s something about him. ...He’s pretty crafty, pretty nifty. He’s got detail to what he does – the runs, the landmarks, the check downs. There’s something there and we like him."

• CB Nick Whiteside
Reported by the Detroit News

Whiteside joined the Lions in late July and immediately flashed his ball skills, intercepting a pass in his first practice with the team. That turned into a ballhawking stretch where he was routinely getting his hands on the ball, including another interception in one of the joint sessions with the Dolphins. But after putting himself in the mix for a roster spot, Whiteside faded down the stretch, including a rough showing in the preseason finale, where he allowed seven catches for 94 yards on eight targets while in coverage.

10 cuts - 81 players on the roster, 28 to go.

Waivers takes one day to claim or clear. 16 players will be signed to the practice squad.

I think all 3 of these guys will be signed to the practice squad.

Agree 100%, although Whiteside might get claimed - he put out some good tape this summer.

 

[Ilov80s]

As an accounting/finance executive we had to go through a couple of really challenging RIFs. Two weeks after 9/11 our venture capitalists forced us to go from 360 to 125. Took three days of meetings: me, head of HR, the CEO, and the applicable department head of each employee. 10 hours for three straight days, went through a case of tissues, ordered in lunch. Man did that suck.

Can’t believe mother****ers do that via email these days.

Truly gutless behavior

 

[SoBeDad]

Agree 100%, although Whiteside might get claimed - he put out some good tape this summer.

Miami saw it up close. They might claim him.

 

[Ilov80s]

From Pride of Detroit:

Another option to consider is that, because Skipper is a veteran, he could be coming back to the roster soon. Oftentimes, a veteran is released with an unwritten agreement that they will sign back with the team after some necessary roster maneuvering. At the very least, the Lions seem likely to bring Skipper back on the practice squad.

This makes a whole lot of sense. I guess we'll see.

Given how bad the Lions OL depth is, this almost has to be the plan. I assume at this point it's not a situation where another team could just claim him? I don't know how that works.

 

[BobbyLayne]

5 more - now at 76

Edge Nate Lynn

Lynn initially signed with the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He had a sack in the preseason opener, but suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in the contest.

Picking up where he left off this offseason, Lynn led the Lions with 10 QB pressures and a sack this preseason. Regardless, it wasn't enough to win a job. The former William & Mary standout is a clear fit for the practice squad, assuming he clears waivers.

DT Myles Adams

Poached off Seattle's practice squad last November, Adams re-signed with the Lions in March. The 6-foot-2, 299-pounder had a strong finish to training camp, while pacing the Lions with a team-high 151 defensive snaps during the preseason. In those four contests, he recorded five tackles and four quarterback pressures.

RB Deon Jackson

Jackson, who previously spent time with the Colts, Browns and Giants, joined the Lions in mid-August and struggled to eat into Saylors' playing time and workload, logging a meager six carries for 23 yards.

WR Jakobie Keeney-James

Reported by the Detroit News

The athletic, 6-foot-1, 195-pounder signed with the Lions as an undrafted free agent out of UMass in May. His big-play ability from college didn't immediately translate to the next level. Playing more than 60 preseason snaps, he failed to register a reception while drawing just two targets. Keeney-James also muffed a punt in the Hall of Fame game.

TE Gunnar Oakes

Reported by the Detroit News

Another mid-camp addition, the former Eastern Michigan and Michigan Panthers player only drew two offensive and two special teams snaps during the preseason.

 

[Ilov80s]

Now that I think about it, I feel like the Lios have done this with Skipper before where they released him on a handshake agreement to bring him right back.

 

[BobbyLayne]

Current Roster (76 players)​

Quarterbacks (2)​

Jared Goff, Kyle Allen

Running back (4)​

Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montomery, Craig Reynolds, Sione Vaki

Wide receivers (8)​

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Tim Patrick, Kalif Raymond, Isaac TeSlaa, Dominic Lovett, Ronnie Bell, Malik Taylor

Tight ends (5)​

Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Shane Zylstra, Zach Horton, Steven Stilianos

Injured Reserve: Kenny Yeboah

Offensive line (16)​

Penei Sewell, Taylor Decker, Christian Mahogany, Tate Ratledge, Graham Glasgow, Giovani Manu, Kayode Awosika, Kingsley Eguakun, Netane Muti, Jamarco Jones, Zack Johnson, Mason Miller, Michael Niese, Gunner Britton, Miles Frazier, Trystan Colon

Injured Reserve: Justin Herron, Colby Sorsdal

Edge defenders (6)​

Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Isaac Ukwu, Josh Paschal, Ahmed Hassanein

Defensive tackles (9)​

DJ Reader, Tyleik Williams, Pat O’Connor, Roy Lopez, Chris Smith, Mekhi Wingo, Keith Cooper Jr., Brodric Martin, Alim McNeill

PUP Reserve: Levi Onwuzurike

Linebackers (9)​

Jack Campbell, Alex Anzalone, Derrick Barnes, Grant Stuard, Trevor Nowaske, Zach Cunningham, DaRon Gilbert, Malcolm Rodriguez, Ezekiel Turner

Defensive backs (14)​

Terrion Arnold, DJ Reed, Amik Robertson, Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, Rock Ya-Sin, Avonte Maddox, Khalil Dorsey, Loren Strickland, Luq Barcoo, Allan George, D.J. Miller, Tyson Russell, Morice Norris

Injured Reserve: Ennis Rakestraw, Dan Jackson

Specialists (3)​

Jack Fox, Jake Bates, Hogan Hatten




https://www.detroitfootball.net/

 

[BobbyLayne]

Now that I think about it, I feel like the Lios have done this with Skipper before where they released him on a handshake agreement to bring him right back.

think 2024 was the first time in his career he made a 53 man out of TC

Dude has signed like 25 contracts