As the Detroit Lions enter their third week of training camp, it’s time to take a closer look at the projected 53-man roster. While some positions are clearer than others, there are still spots up for grabs and decisions to be made.
At quarterback, it’s expected that Jared Goff will be the starter, with Hendon Hooker and Nate Sudfeld rounding out the depth chart. Despite Sudfeld’s lackluster performance in the preseason opener, the coaching staff values his experience and ability to help Goff prepare for opponents. Hooker, though dealing with a concussion, has shown potential but lacks consistency.
In the running back room, the Lions have a strong duo in Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Craig Reynolds has emerged as the clear RB3, while Sione Vaki, who has shown promise in the preseason, will likely make the roster to continue his development. Jermar Jefferson is also making a case for himself and could challenge for a spot.
The wide receiver situation is less settled, with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams looking like locks. Daurice Fountain seems to have the edge for the WR3 spot, but no one has fully taken hold of the position. The coaches are still searching for a standout performer, possibly leading to a committee approach.
On the offensive line, the Lions could go with nine or even ten linemen this year. Taylor Decker, Graham Glasgow, Frank Ragnow, and Kevin Zeitler are all expected to start, with rookie Penei Sewell also in the mix. Colby Sorsdal, Dan Skipper, Giovanni Manu, and Michael Niese have all shown promise and should make the roster. However, there is room for surprises, with Kayode Awosika and Ike Bottenger potentially earning a spot.
The tight end position is led by Sam LaPorta and Brock Wright, who serve as co-starters in the Lions’ 12 personnel packages. Shane Zylstra has impressed and earned first-team reps in LaPorta’s absence, making a strong case for a roster spot. James Mitchell, a late-round pick, hasn’t stood out yet but could make the team based on the Lions’ history of success with mid-round picks.
Moving to the defensive side of the ball, the defensive tackle position remains fluid. DJ Reader’s availability for the start of the season is uncertain as he recovers from a torn quad. If he is limited, the Lions will likely keep five other tackles, including hybrid edge/tackle Levi Onwuzurike. Kyle Peko has seen significant time with the first-team defense and could take Reader’s place in certain packages. Mekhi Wingo has impressed as a rotational piece and should secure a roster spot.
At edge rusher, Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, and Josh Paschal are the top three options. James Houston has shown promise as a pure pass-rusher and should make the roster. Mitchell Agude and Isaac Ukwu are in contention for the final spot, with Agude currently having the edge. Mathieu Betts will need to prove himself further to secure a spot.
The linebacker room appears settled, with Alex Anzalone, Jack Campbell, Derrick Barnes, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Jalen Reeves-Maybin filling out the depth chart. The only potential wildcard is Ben Niemann, who could take on a special teams role similar to Anthony Pittman.
In the cornerback group, Carlton Davis III, Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, Ennis Rakestraw Jr., and Khalil Dorsey are the likely choices. Dorsey’s special teams value gives him the edge over Kindle Vildor and Steven Gilmore. Gilmore’s best path may be on the practice squad.
At safety, Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, Ifeatu Melifonwu, and C.J. Moore have the inside track. Moore’s special teams ability makes him a valuable asset. Brandon Joseph and Morice Norris could challenge for a spot but may end up on the practice squad.
Lastly, the specialists consist of Jack Fox as the punter, Jake Bates as the long snapper, and Hogan Hatten as a potential challenger to incumbent Scott Daly. Hatten’s athleticism and coverage skills give him an intriguing edge, but Daly is still the frontrunner.
As training camp progresses, there may be surprises and changes to the projected roster. The competition at certain positions remains fierce, and players will need to continue to prove themselves in order to secure their spots.