The Detroit Lions Podcast

The Detroit Lions must simplify coverage and play their drafted defensive backs against the New York Jets in Week 3. Detroit allowed 71 points in two games, and working out veterans Jordan Fuller and Jalen Mills does not fix communication issues. Youth, clarity, and accountability win snaps and the game. What is the single biggest defensive fix? Simplify the coverage rules and play the young corners now. As Jeff Risdon noted, the defense's primary issue is coordination between cornerbacks, safeties, and linebackers, not pure talent. That means giving snaps to Detroit Lions cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Detroit Lions cornerback Keith Abney, and Detroit Lions cornerback Nick Whiteside from the practice squad so the group can grow together. Risdon said the scheme has been hurt by too many moving parts that do not see plays the same way. Accountability is already there. Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell owned a rough outing, and Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell channels that energy productively. Tightening calls and letting the invested youngsters execute them is the clearest path to better play. Should the Lions sign veteran DB help after the tryouts? Not as the primary solution. Jeremy Fowler reported Detroit worked out safety Jordan Fuller and defensive back Jalen Mills, but stopgaps do not solve communication. Play the kids first, then supplement as needed. Detroit Lions cornerback Raq Ya-Sin has been exposed through two games. As Risdon said, the team knows what he is right now, and it is not starting caliber. If Ennis Rakestraw or Keith Abney are healthy scratches again, that signals the organization does not see them as roster-worthy contributors. Decide it on the field. What about Brian Branch, Kirby Joseph, and takeaways? Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch can begin practicing this week, and Risdon is optimistic there. Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph remains uncertain, so plan as if he is not returning, then adjust if he does. The defense needs takeaways to flip games. One play illustrates it. Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson forced a strip sack on the first drive in Buffalo that Detroit did not recover. A recovery changes the entire night. Against the Jets, simplify the coverage behind the rush and finish turnover chances. What defines Week 3 vs the Jets? Win by at least a touchdown. Risdon said great teams bury lesser ones, and this is a measuring stick game. If it comes down to a Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates 55 yarder in the final minute, the standard was not met. Detroit's offense should separate. With Detroit Lions offensive tackle Blake Miller expected back, protection cleans up and the Lions can keep drives alive. Buffalo looks excellent and Josh Allen is playing at an MVP level, but that context does not change the mandate now. Handle business, simplify on defense, start the drafted DBs, and make Week 3 the springboard. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #buffalobills #newyorkjets #aidanhutchinson #dancampbell #jackcampbell #brianbranch #kirbyjoseph #raqya-sin #jordanfuller #jalenmills #jakebates #ennisrakestraw #keithabney #joshallen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions defense is broken, not banged up. Through two games it has allowed 72 points and over 900 yards, with 13 explosive plays of 20+ yards and 18 penalties compounding the damage. The issues are schematic, communication, and usage driven. Coaching adjustments and lineup changes must happen immediately. What exactly failed on defense? Cohesion and coverage integrity collapsed. Receivers attacked the space behind the linebackers and in front of the safeties all night. Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell is triggering hard downhill and not gaining enough depth, and the secondary is miscommunicating leverage and help. As Scott Bischoff noted, against the New Orleans Saints the Lions stayed in the same plan too long and were then picked apart. In Buffalo, the same fractures reappeared and magnified. Players looked unsure of assignments and help, which turned routine zone rules into voids for chunk plays. The 41-31 loss was the result. Is Detroit's blitz plan helping or hurting? Hurting. Over-aggression is creating the very openings opponents want. The Saints adjusted by throwing behind pressure. The Buffalo Bills and quarterback Josh Allen ran away from it and attacked the vacated zones. Scott Bischoff explained that blitzing without a clear give-and-take is a losing trade. If you remove a defender from coverage and do not get home, you are gifting defined throws. That is exactly what happened, especially in the second level windows the Bills hit repeatedly. Which personnel and coaching decisions must change now? Play your drafted defensive backs, tighten safety depths, and stop leaning on struggling veterans. Detroit Lions cornerback DJ Reed has not held up, Detroit Lions safety Avonte Maddox is not closing fast enough, and Detroit Lions defensive back Christian Eisen needs more than sporadic snaps. Inactives like Detroit Lions cornerbacks Ennis Rakestraw and Keith Abney, plus practice-squad call-up options like Detroit Lions cornerback Dan Jackson, deserve evaluation snaps. Russell Brown stressed that injuries are not an excuse. Coaching must align rules to personnel, and the DB room needs sharper teaching and communication. Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph's absence matters, but it does not explain repeated busts. This is a coaching and usage problem that demands immediate changes. Did the offense do enough, and what about penalties? Yes, the offense battled. Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff delivered pinpoint throws to Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, and Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs produced. But protection cracked. Detroit Lions tackle Larry Borom and Detroit Lions guard Ben Bartch struggled, Detroit Lions right tackle Penei Sewell had an uneven night, and Buffalo Bills edge rusher Greg Rousseau won key reps. Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford even disrupted routes on the perimeter, including reps on Amon-Ra St. Brown. Discipline remains a killer. The Lions committed 18 penalties through two games. That, plus 6 explosive plays of 20+ yards allowed versus the Saints and 7 more against the Bills, defines why a front that includes Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson and an active front seven is not closing games. As Russell Brown said, something has to change defensively right now. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #amon-rast.brown #jahmyrgibbs #samlaporta #peneisewell #aidanhutchinson #jackcampbell #dancampbell #joshallen #chrisolave #christianbenford #gregrousseau #djreed #buffalobills #neworleanssaints Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions vs Buffalo Bills Week 2 reaction, analysis, live presser, and listener calls. Detroit Lions Post Game Reaction Chris and Michael Grey go live after the final whistle from Detroit Lions vs Buffalo Bills in Week 2 of the 2026 NFL season. This is the place for an immediate Detroit Lions post game reaction, a clear account of the game result, and a full breakdown of how the night unfolded at Highmark Stadium. The show examines the biggest plays, decisive possessions, coaching decisions, momentum swings, and individual performances from the Thursday night matchup. Chris and Michael will separate the defining moments from the background noise and explain why the Lions won or lost. No empty hot takes, no waiting until the next morning, just direct analysis while the game is still fresh. Lions vs Bills Game Analysis Detroit entered this road matchup with major questions in the secondary and two new injuries along the offensive line. Could the offense do enough to keep the Lions in the game? The post game discussion will evaluate how Detroit handled those concerns, whether the protection held up, and how consistently the offense moved the football against Buffalo. The analysis will also focus on situational football. That includes third downs, red-zone execution, explosive plays, turnovers, penalties, field position, and late-game management. Chris and Michael will identify the adjustments that worked, the decisions that did not, and the developments that could matter beyond Week 2 of the 2026 Lions season. This lions post game show is built around context. One result can matter without defining an entire season, but every NFL game reveals something about a team's strengths, vulnerabilities, depth, and ability to respond under pressure. Detroit Lions vs Buffalo Bills offers an early-season test with real questions on both sides of the ball. Live Post Game Presser and Listener Calls The Detroit Lions Podcast will cover the post game presser live. Chris and Michael will react to the most important comments and connect them directly to what happened on the field, without losing sight of the game itself. Then the conversation opens to live listener calls. Lions fans can share their biggest takeaway, question the key decisions, highlight an overlooked performance, or explain what this Week 2 result means moving forward. Join the live discussion for complete Detroit Lions post game analysis, immediate reaction, and an honest read on where the team stands after Lions vs the Buffalo Bills. #DetroitLions #Lions #DetroitLionsPodcast #DetroitLionsPostGame #LionsPostGameShow #LionsVsBills #DetroitLionsVsBuffaloBills #BuffaloBills #NFL #NFL2026 #NFLWeek2 #2026Lions #LionsReaction #LionsAnalysis #ThursdayNightFootball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions defense has no identity and got exposed in a 41-31 loss to the Buffalo Bills, falling behind 21-0 before settling in. Detroit surrendered six touchdowns and has allowed 63 first downs in two games, a crisis that demands immediate scheme clarity and personnel adjustments before Week 3. Why did Detroit fall behind 21-0 so fast? Because the defense failed on early downs and the offense opened with consecutive three and outs, handing Buffalo all the momentum. In the first quarter alone, Buffalo posted 11 first downs to Detroit's 1, outgained the Lions 169 yards to 10, and ran 21 plays to 7 with Detroit committing two penalties. Quarterback Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills, extended plays and punished breakdowns, while coverage busts turned routine scrambles into explosive scores. Detroit's pass rush and run fits did not complement each other, leaving the unit chasing the game and forcing quarterback Jared Goff, Detroit Lions, to play uphill before the offense found rhythm. Can the Lions fire defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard now? No, an outside change in Week 3 is not realistic, so fixes must come from within. As Jeff Risdon noted, nobody worth hiring takes over a struggling defense midstream with limited practice time and a roster built for the current vision. Defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard, Detroit Lions, installed a multiple approach, but constant toggling between fronts and coverages has produced confusion instead of disguise. The defense needs one thing it can hang its hat on. Pick a core identity, tighten assignments, and empower experienced assistants to add input while Sheppard streamlines calls and roles. How did Jared Goff and the offense actually play? After a brutal start, Jared Goff was excellent and dragged the Lions back into a game that never felt close. Protection issues were central. Offensive tackle Larry Borom, Detroit Lions, struggled in his third tackle role, and offensive tackle Penei Sewell, Detroit Lions, had an uncharacteristically rough night that disrupted both the run game and timing. Edge rusher Greg Rousseau, Buffalo Bills, consistently impacted snaps, and Detroit did not meaningfully exploit the surprise absence of defensive tackle Ed Oliver, Buffalo Bills. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions, sparked with a 16 yard run and helped as a receiver, and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions, kept chains moving during the rally. Guard Tate Ratledge, Detroit Lions, earned praise for steady play. The offense finished with 31 points, but the early hole and defensive leakage erased any comeback chance. What must change before the New York Jets in Week 3? Establish a clear defensive identity and get off the field. Detroit forced only two punts in Buffalo and gave up six touchdowns, an untenable formula. Linebacker Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions, and linebacker Devin White, Detroit Lions, must clean up run fits, and personnel should be reassessed, including giving cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Detroit Lions, a look if he is healthy. Head coach Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions, needs immediate schematic focus on third down, early down run integrity, and bust elimination. As Jeff Risdon said, this is a game the Lions should be expected to win comfortably. If it requires a last second kick, the ceiling shrinks to middle of the pack. Week 3 is the mandate to reset and prove this team's trajectory. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #amon-rast.brown #peneisewell #jackcampbell #dancampbell #larryborom #tateratledge #kelvinsheppard #ennisrakestrawjr. #joshallen #gregrousseau #edoliver #buffalobills #newyorkjets Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Detroit run on Buffalo's front without Blake Miller and Christian Mahogany? Yes, the run game is there to attack, but losing two starters changes the approach. Detroit Lions right tackle Blake Miller and Detroit Lions left guard Christian Mahogany being out put more on Detroit Lions tackle Larry Borom and on the scheme. The Bills show 3-4 defensive looks that Detroit has historically attacked with the run. When Buffalo goes nickel and effectively pulls the nose tackle, leaving two lighter ends inside, the middle opens. That is prime to hit with downhill and duo concepts. As Jeff Risdon noted, Larry Borom is better in pass protection than in run blocking, which complicates straight-ahead volume runs. Expect some early cleat checks on the new grass, but weather is not a factor and mid-September in Buffalo is preferable to December. How should Jared Goff attack Buffalo's secondary? Quarterback Jared Goff, Detroit Lions, must control tempo and use play action to stress linebackers and safeties. There is space behind the second level and on backside throws. Buffalo's secondary deserves respect, but it is beatable when you manipulate their underneath defenders. That is where Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa can steal targets on in breakers and glance routes, and where the No. 2 tight end can be a real weapon. As Jeff Risdon noted, Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright fits the void-hunting role, especially off heavy looks that sell run and release late. The goal is to marry the run and play action so Jared Goff can attack windows without taking unnecessary risks. What must the defense do to keep this from becoming a track meet? Take the ball away and finish the chances. The mandate is to catch the interceptions and recover the fumbles. Houston forced four fumbles and recovered one against Buffalo, a missed opportunity that Detroit must avoid. Head coach Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions, will hammer assignment discipline and opportunism on the short week. Rookie head coach Joe Brady, Buffalo Bills, is familiar to Detroit's staff from New Orleans days, so there is no mystery in tendencies. These are two of the best offenses and not two of the best defenses, so the game trends toward a shootout unless Detroit converts takeaway chances and tightens red zone spacing. What is the betting outlook and Jeff Risdon's final score prediction? Jeff Risdon picks Buffalo 34-27. He initially wrote 31-27, then moved to a full touchdown margin. The spread shifted from 3.5 to between 5.5 and 6 at DraftKings on Thursday, with late money leaning Bills. New stadium energy and the condensed prep window favor Buffalo, and offensive line attrition raises Detroit's margin for error. As Jeff Risdon emphasized, the Lions can score if they control tempo and hit play action, but the decisive swing is finishing takeaways. Big picture, he still views Detroit as an 11 to 13 win team, making health and cleaner execution the priorities after tonight. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #buffalobills #jaredgoff #dancampbell #blakemiller #christianmahogany #larryborom #isaacteslaa #brockwright #joebrady #highmarkstadium #houstontexans #draftkingsspread #rungame #nickeldefense Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions beat the Buffalo Bills by capitalizing on Josh Allen's turnover chances, matching Buffalo's heavy 13 personnel with linebackers, and attacking inside on both lines. As Jeff Risdon noted, the Bills ran almost 50 percent of their offense in 13, and Detroit's base answers that look while avoiding explosive, broken plays. What is the one blueprint for a Detroit Lions win in Buffalo? Win the middle, avoid third and long, and finish takeaways. The Bills edged the Houston Texans 36 to 31, but Houston left interceptions and drive-killers on the field. As Jeff Risdon emphasized, Detroit must convert those Allen-risk throws into turnovers and keep the offense on schedule to deny Buffalo's edge rush chances. Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell has already hammered the short-week reality. At the new Highmark Stadium on Thursday night, Detroit must keep its poise, button up penalties, and play clean situational football. Ball security matters because Greg Rousseau's strip-sack timing was game-swinging for Buffalo, with two strip sacks on the first and last drives, both on third and long. How should Detroit defend Josh Allen and Dalton Kincaid? Lean into base and make Allen earn yards on the ground, not over the top. The Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen will take risks, and Detroit cannot drop interception chances. The Bills featured almost 50 percent 13 personnel against Houston, so Detroit can live in base with three linebackers and sturdier run fits. The focal threat is Buffalo Bills tight end Dalton Kincaid, who frequently aligns wide to dictate matchups. He is a lot like Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, only deployed as a true mismatch piece outside and back across the formation. Safeties and corners must tackle, and the linebackers must pass off routes cleanly. A controlled "crush the can" rush, squeezing from outside to in, keeps Allen in structure and limits those back-breaking, out-of-structure deep shots. As Jeff Risdon said, accept a few Allen scrambles if it prevents the explosive throws. Where can Jared Goff and the Lions offense attack the Bills? Inside runs and quick-game rhythm. The Texans averaged 3.9 yards per carry, but short-yardage touchdowns compressed that number. Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery's downhill style fits this matchup. Stay out of obvious passing downs so Buffalo Bills edge rusher Greg Rousseau and Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver cannot tee off. Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff must prioritize ball security because Buffalo hunts strips at the top of the rush. As Jeff Risdon noted, Houston repeatedly targeted Buffalo Bills cornerback Christian Benford. Detroit Lions slot receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown can exploit those leverage points, while Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa offers the frame to shield defenders on the boundary. Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams needs a cleaner game and precision on gadget timing to stress Buffalo vertically. Which Lions matchups decide this game? Detroit's linebackers versus tight ends and the interior fronts. Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez and Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes must win against 13 personnel, especially when Dalton Kincaid flexes out. Inside, Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill and stunts with Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson can stress Buffalo's interior offensive line, which Jeff Risdon identified as a weaker spot. Convert turnover chances, avoid third and long, and finish in the red zone. Do those things, and Detroit walks out of Buffalo with the win. As Jeff Risdon put it, this is absolutely a winnable game if the Lions execute where Houston fell short. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #amon-rast.brown #samlaporta #jackcampbell #aidanhutchinson #malcolmrodriguez #derrickbarnes #alimmcneill #davidmontgomery #joshallen #daltonkincaid #gregrousseau #edoliver #christianbenford #buffalobills https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mAWtOIH0YY #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #amon-rast.brown #samlaporta #jackcampbell #aidanhutchinson #malcolmrodriguez #derrickbarnes #alimmcneill #davidmontgomery #joshallen #daltonkincaid #gregrousseau #edoliver #christianbenford #buffalobills Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP for Tuesday, September 15th looks at some of the broad-stroke takeaways from the Lions Week 1 win over the Saints. We also delve into the PFF team scores and grades, and offer what we can on the Joey Porter Jr. situation with the Steelers. Detroit's defense was dominant early in the game, but the Saints adjusted to the pressures and the spacing. New Orleans took advantage of some poor coordination in the Lions' zone coverages. The pass rush from Skyler Gill-Howard, Aidan Hutchinson and others was still bringing it, but getting the ball out quicker and using their speed better helped the Saints light up the Detroit D regardless. Gill-Howard was one of several Lions who stood out individually. First-rounder in 2025, Tyleik Williams had a whale of a game in the start of his second season in Detroit. This year's first-rounder, Blake Miller, also performed very well in his first NFL game. The moment wasn't too big for Miller. His injury status is a big detail to watch for when the Lions visit the Buffalo Bills on a short week this Thursday. Dan Campbell seems hopeful Miller will be able to go. A review of the team's overall PFF grades offers a broad view of how the Lions performed and how it compares to the rest of the NFL in Week 1. We also offer an update on the Lions' contact with the Steelers regarding Pittsburgh CB Joey Porter Jr., who is the subject of trade rumors as he seeks a new contract. Plus, a look at some of the ways the Lions can tighten up the ship headed to Buffalo. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #aidanhutchinson #peneisewell #jackcampbell #dancampbell #rockya-sin #chuckclark #thomasharper #benbartch #larryborom #blakemiller #joeyporterjr. #buffalobills #pittsburghsteelers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions are 1-0 after a messy overtime escape against the New Orleans Saints but the win is the bottom line. Detroit produced a needed late scoring drive, survived a two-point try in OT, and, as Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell stressed, now must clean up the sloppiness while banking the result. Why does the Week 1 win matter more than the mess? Because 1-0 is all that counts. Dan Campbell said it plainly, a win is a win, and Michael Grey agreed that style points do not carry over. The Detroit Lions finished when they had to, then the defense did just enough at the end. The New Orleans Saints nearly stole it with a two-point conversion after an overtime that never should have happened, but it did not go against Detroit. The NFL is a results business, and Detroit Lions Podcast listeners know the cure for Week 1 anxiety is stacking wins while you fix problems. Is the Detroit Lions secondary a problem right now? Yes, it is a mess filled with backups, and opponents will attack it. As Michael Grey told Chris on the Detroit Lions Podcast, the secondary is the weakest position group and it showed. He cautioned fans against penciling in quick returns for injured starters, adding that he does not expect Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch to resemble himself for a long while after an Achilles, and he questioned whether Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph will return at all. With depth pieces elevated, coverage busts multiplied. That is a dangerous setup with Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen coming on a short week. Limiting explosive plays and getting any stabilizing snaps from available corners is the immediate mandate. How much work is too much for Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs? Thirty-plus touches is unsustainable, and RB2 must be addressed this week. Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs was outstanding, over five yards a carry and the engine late, but Michael Grey warned that repeated between-the-tackles collisions will add up. Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown praised Jahmyr Gibbs' stamina, but Grey pushed back, noting everyone wears down in the NFL. Detroit Lions right tackle Penei Sewell and the line opened creases, yet the plan cannot be Jahmyr Gibbs or bust. Someone else in the backfield needs 10 to 15 combined touches to protect Jahmyr Gibbs and the season. What must Drew Petzing change before the Buffalo Bills? Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing must diversify targets and sustain drives. Only six players registered catches, and the offense disappeared for long stretches. Michael Grey wanted a broader distribution, even calling for a target to Isaac Tesla to widen the defense. Collaboration with Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is fine until stagnation sets in. Convert more third downs than the five Detroit managed against the New Orleans Saints, expand the route tree for Jameson Williams while demanding fewer concentration drops, and use tempo and formations to keep Josh Allen on the sideline. Do that, and Detroit's offense, the team's strength, can carry the load in Buffalo. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jahmyrgibbsworkload #secondaryinjuries #brianbranchachilles #kirbyjosephstatus #joshallenmatchup #neworleanssaintsovertime #two-pointtryinot #drewpetzingadjustments #targetdistribution #jamesonwilliamsdrops Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions won because their defense suffocated the New Orleans Saints early and Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs delivered 29 carries for 156 yards and two touchdowns. The first six Saints possessions produced almost nothing, then Detroit capitalized with takeaways before hanging on through fatigue and late-game turbulence. How did Detroit's defense take control early? Detroit dictated the game with an attacking plan and quick wins. As Jeff Risdon detailed, the Saints' first six drives went 6 plays, 20 yards, punt; 3 plays, 3 yards, punt; 5 plays, 25 yards, punt; 6 plays, 12 yards, punt; 5 plays, 20 yards, interception; 9 plays, 31 yards, punt. That is dominant defense. Lions linebacker Derek Barnes read tendencies for a takeaway, then Detroit turned it into points. Blitzes and creative fronts let Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson and the line stress protections while forcing quarterback Tyler Shuck to speed up. The Saints adjusted to quicker throws after halftime, and volume became a factor when the defense logged 90 snaps. Why did the offense stall after a 21-0 lead? Execution and game management slipped. Detroit led 21 nothing off a great script, Barnes' interception and another takeaway, but drives devolved into quick punts and a costly fumble. Wide receiver Jameson Williams had two drops and Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown missed a contested catch he often secures. Clock handling at the end of regulation compounded it. As Jeff Risdon said, “You have to get the Saints to burn their timeouts… You can't throw a pass there.” Quarterback Jared Goff must be protected by play calls that keep the clock moving and possessions in Detroit's control. What does Jahmyr Gibbs' 29-156-2 mean for usage? Jahmyr Gibbs carried the offense, but Detroit needs a steadier RB2 to preserve him. He turned poor blocking into gains and finished with 29 carries for 156 yards and two touchdowns, a monster line that cannot be his weekly burden. Sione Vaki struggled on offense and special teams, including missed assignments in protection and on returns. Jeff Risdon expects more from Jacob Sailors to balance touches. Lions right tackle Penei Sewell needs a clean protection picture from backs when Detroit leans into its under-center and heavy looks. Who stood out and what changes come next? Derek Barnes had an interception, a sack, and a decisive final-play read. Lions linebacker Jack Campbell played all 90 snaps, and Lions cornerback Rock Ya-Sin and DJ Reed each logged 89, highlighting the strain outside when the rush does not arrive. Lions tight end Sam LaPorta played a ton despite a back issue and reemerged late. As an extra lineman, tackle Larry Borom-heavy sets produced mixed results. Guard Ben Bartch stepped in after Christian Mahogany's injury and, aside from one tough holding call, held up, while center Juice Scruggs looked tentative at times. The overtime drive returned to varied plays from the same looks, a positive sign. Lions head coach Dan Campbell and the staff must pair that creativity with end-game discipline before a Thursday trip to Buffalo, where Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen punishes slow adjustments. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #neworleanssaints #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #amon-rast.brown #peneisewell #jackcampbell #samlaporta #dancampbell #aidanhutchinson #derekbarnes #rockya-sin #juicescruggs #benbartch #buffalobills Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions are back, and the first real answers of the 2026 season arrive Sunday afternoon at Ford Field. Detroit opens against the New Orleans Saints at 1 p.m. ET, and the Detroit Lions Podcast post game show goes live immediately after the final whistle with Chris and Michael Grey breaking down everything that mattered. This is more than a final-score reaction. Week 1 is the first meaningful look at what Dan Campbell's retooled Lions actually are after an offseason of change. Detroit enters the year with Jared Goff still directing one of the NFL's deepest collections of offensive weapons, but with Drew Petzing now calling the offense and a reshaped offensive line protecting Goff. Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Sam LaPorta give Detroit enough firepower to dictate games, but the opener will show how quickly the new structure comes together. Detroit Lions Post Game: What Decided Lions vs. Saints? Chris and Michael will go beyond the box score to identify the plays, matchups and decisions that determined Lions vs. Saints. How comfortable did Goff look in Petzing's offense? Did Detroit create explosive opportunities without sacrificing rhythm? How did the revamped offensive line hold up when New Orleans forced obvious passing situations? On defense, the spotlight starts with Aidan Hutchinson and Detroit's ability to disrupt Saints quarterback Tyler Shough. Hutchinson enters the season as the centerpiece of the Lions pass rush, and his matchup with New Orleans left tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. is one of the game's defining battles. Detroit also has to account for Chris Olave, the Saints' most established receiving threat, particularly if Shough is able to stay on schedule. The show will break down the turning points, coaching decisions, personnel usage, situational football and anything that looked meaningfully different from what Detroit showed during the preseason. Dan Campbell Press Conference, Player Reaction and Live Lions Fan Calls The Detroit Lions post game show will also carry Dan Campbell's post game press conference as the head coach reacts to the opener and explains the decisions that shaped the game. When available, the show will also feature a Lions player press conference, typically Jared Goff, giving fans a direct look at how Detroit's locker room viewed the afternoon. Then the phones open. Lions fans can call in live to react, celebrate, vent, challenge the hosts and tell us what they saw. Week 1 always creates strong opinions because it is the first time offseason expectations collide with actual NFL football. Whether Detroit starts the 2026 Lions season with a statement win or leaves Ford Field with questions to answer, this is where Lions fans can process it together. Join Chris and Michael Grey immediately after Detroit Lions vs. New Orleans Saints for complete Lions post game analysis, press conference coverage, live fan reaction and the first real verdict on the 2026 Detroit Lions. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #detroitlionspostgame #detroitlionspostgameshow #lionsvs.saints #lionspostgameshow #neworleanssaints #jaredgoff #dancampbell #aidanhutchinson #jahmyrgibbs #drewpetzing #nflweek1 #2026lionsseason #fordfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahead of the Week 1 matchup between the Detroit Lions and the New Orleans Saints, the Daily DLP welcomes Adam West of the Saints Block Podcast to preview the game. West provides a nice overview of where Saints fans are at with their team, noting that many see some parallels between Year 2 under head coach (and former Lions QB) Kellen Moore and where the Lions were with Dan Campbell back in 2022. There is promise but reserved optimism after a 6-11 finish in Moore's first year. Then it's time for the Xs and Os. Where can the Saints find success in Ford Field, if at all? Can Tyler Shough grow his game in his second year as the New Orleans QB? Does the Saints offensive line have any chance against Aidan Hutchinson, Jack Campbell and a mighty impressive Lions defensive front? The Saints replaced all their specialists this offseason; is that an area where Detroit might have a big advantage playing at home? #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #amon-rast.brown #samlaporta #jahmyrgibbs #jonassanker #chaseyoung #clarkgranderson #blakemiller #choicescruggs #christianmahogany Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions finalized the 53 by naming wide receiver Tom Kennedy the primary punt returner, with kick-return work also in his hands for Week 1. That stabilizes special teams and clarifies the RB2 rotation with Jacob Saylors and Sione Vaki. Detroit opens against the New Orleans Saints at Ford Field as a seven point favorite. Is Tom Kennedy really the Lions' primary returner in Week 1? Yes, the Lions installed Tom Kennedy as the fifth wide receiver and primary punt returner, and he will share kick-return duties. Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp said earlier in the week that Kennedy would handle punts, and he reinforced that trust by noting Kennedy's fielding, fair-catch decisions and situational awareness. Kennedy also pairs with running back Jacob Saylors on kickoffs, with Sione Vaki working as a point blocker on return units. Kennedy predates head coach Dan Campbell on the roster and now has a fully guaranteed veteran salary after years bouncing between the practice squad and active roster. Expect limited offensive snaps, but a steadying hand on returns. Who joined the practice squad, and what does it say about cornerback preferences? The Lions added cornerback Natron Brooks to the practice squad. He played at Southern Miss, entered the 2023 draft class, and spent time with the Atlanta Falcons. Southern Miss listed him at 168 pounds and the Falcons at 170, and he profiles as an undersized outside corner with special teams experience who can take some slot snaps. The move fits a broader trend Jeff Risdon highlighted of Detroit targeting feisty, undersized outside corners. Brooks is a depth and teams piece for now, but he fits the prototype. What did the latest injury updates actually change for Sunday roles? Linebacker Jimmy Rolder returned as a full participant with a hamstring and is tracking to play in Week 1. As Jeff Risdon noted, three straight limited practices usually precede a doubtful tag, and no player listed as doubtful in the five years under Dan Campbell has ever been active. That context matters for late-week designations. Role-wise, Rolder offers Detroit's best pure coverage at linebacker right now, which matters against a middle-field passing attack. Devin White remains a downhill force but is not a coverage asset, Malcolm Rodriguez is limited in space, and Jack Campbell's least-strong area is still coverage even as he plays well overall. Expect Trevor Nowaski to be the designated blitz backer and a core special teamer. Thomas Harper will be on the field a lot, rotating at slot, free safety and box safety in three-safety looks. Christian Isian's status remains to be finalized. Cornerback Keith Abney is attempting to play through a hand issue. How do the Saints match up, and what are Detroit's Week 1 keys? New Orleans, with Kellen Moore calling plays, runs concepts that target the middle of the field. Quarterback Tyler Shuck thrives on short and intermediate timing, play-action and tight end involvement. Per Jeff's conversation with a Saints analyst, Alvin Kamara is set to play, while first-round pick Jordan Dion is out 4 to 6 weeks with a hamstring. On special teams, new kicker Daniel Carlson could drive touchbacks. Given Detroit's uneven kick-return results last year and in the preseason, the Lions will accept touchbacks, start at the 25 and let the offense work. Up front, watch left guard: Christian Mahogany's highs are impressive, but coaches want fewer low moments, while Ben Bartch offers solid veteran reliability. Jared Goff benefits most if Detroit avoids a rotation and settles the spot. Does defense usually start faster than offense? Yes. As Jeff Risdon observed after watching early NFL action, defenses are ahead of offenses in Week 1. Detroit can win the situation game by protecting the ball, leveraging special teams field position and squeezing the middle where the Saints aim to operate. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #tomkennedy #jacobsaylors #sionevaki #jimmyrolder #jackcampbell #jaredgoff #dancampbell #thomasharper #trevornowaski #christianmahogany #benbartch #natronbrooks #neworleanssaints #kellenmoore #alvinkamara Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions will open Week 1 by attacking the New Orleans Saints with aggressive, overloaded pressure looks and a clean, timing-based offense under offensive coordinator Drew Petzing. Expect multiple-front packages on defense and early, easy touches for running back Jahmyr Gibbs while quarterback Jared Goff operates behind a steady line. Will the Detroit Lions defense get aggressive with multiple fronts? Yes. Scott Bischoff said Detroit should dial up overloaded looks, walk-up rushers and NASCAR packages to force the Saints to declare protections and create confusion on third-and-long. The emphasis is on communication in the secondary and coordinated rush plans that change from even to odd fronts without substituting. Detroit can pair interior movement with edge stress, letting Lions edge Aidan Hutchinson win on islands while interior rushers attack gaps created by simulated pressure. If the Saints quarterback extends plays, the Lions want disciplined rush lanes and back-end communication to eliminate busts. Nickel-heavy groupings and two-high shells remain in the toolbox to tighten windows on intermediate throws. Who starts at left guard, and does the Detroit Lions offensive line stay cohesive? The battle is guard Christian Mahogany versus guard Ben Bartch, and head coach Dan Campbell admitted it is not ideal. Cohesion is the Week 1 priority. As Scott Bischoff noted, last season's Week 1 had disjointed moments up front, and Detroit cannot afford protection or assignment errors to derail early drives. Right tackle Penei Sewell anchors the group, and the objective is a steady pocket for quarterback Jared Goff with clean run fits to keep Detroit on schedule. Locking down left guard, even if by committee, must not come at the expense of communication across the interior. How will Jared Goff and Drew Petzing deploy Amon-Ra St. Brown, Sam LaPorta, and Jahmyr Gibbs? Expect quarterback Jared Goff to work the intermediate middle, with tight end Sam LaPorta involved if active, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown featured, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs schemed as a frequent passing outlet. Bischoff expects 12 personnel to show up and for Detroit to manufacture easy touches to Jahmyr Gibbs early. As Russell Brown emphasized, Amon-Ra St. Brown remains the consistent focal point, and Sam LaPorta's return to practice points to meaningful usage in the seam and crossers, which fits Jared Goff's timing. Dan Campbell's staff continues to sort RB2 behind Jahmyr Gibbs, with Brown leaning toward running back Jacob Saylors over running back Dion Vaki for change-of-pace snaps. On special teams, wide receiver Tom Kennedy handles return duties. Who is the key Detroit Lions player to watch, and why? Sam LaPorta on offense and Devin White on defense. Sam LaPorta, tight end, Detroit Lions Sam LaPorta's route volume in the intermediate middle aligns with Drew Petzing's structure and Jared Goff's strengths. The question is simple: does he look like himself and retain his burst on in-breakers and crossers while handling contact after the catch? Devin White, linebacker, Detroit Lions Russell Brown spotlighted linebacker Devin White next to linebacker Jack Campbell. White's speed can impact blitz packages and rally tackling fits, and his downhill trigger must show up in crowded boxes. The staff will watch tackling consistency and how Detroit deploys him to affect the quarterback. What is the two-leg Detroit Lions parlay the hosts built? They built a simple two-leg parlay on FanDuel at +225: Jahmyr Gibbs over 30.5 receiving yards (-114) and Amon-Ra St. Brown over 77.5 receiving yards (-114). Bischoff noted Jahmyr Gibbs can clear his line on one play, while Brown trusts Amon-Ra St. Brown's volume to stack catches and yards early. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #lionsvssaints #detroitlionsweek1 #neworleanssaints #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #amon-rast.brown #samlaporta #aidanhutchinson #drewpetzing #devinwhite #peneisewell #scottbischoff #russellbrown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions enter Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints with an encouraging injury report. No player would have been sidelined on Wednesday's estimated practice, and only three defenders were limited, positioning the defense to hunt takeaways that decide games. As Jeff Risdon explained, that is Detroit's actionable edge. Is the Week 1 Detroit Lions injury report actually good news? Yes. The team listed only three limited defenders on the estimated Wednesday report and no one as out. Defensive back Christian Izien, groin, defensive tackle MacKay Wingo, groin, and edge rusher Dorsey Moore, hamstring, were limited. Because the Lions practiced Tuesday, Wednesday's report was an estimation built around the Sunday-Thursday short-week cadence. As Jeff Risdon noted, the hamstring for Dorsey Moore is something to watch, but the summer showed he is ready to contribute right away. Will Christian Izien and Thomas Harper stabilize the secondary vs the Saints? Yes, both are tracking as meaningful boosts. Head coach Dan Campbell previously said Christian Izien was not expected for Week 1, but a limited tag now, and a limited or full go Thursday, puts him in play as the starting slot and top reserve across the secondary. Defensive back Thomas Harper is ready to play a lot after an ankle issue late in camp, which matters with safety Kirby Joseph and defensive back Brian Branch on PUP. Jeff Risdon emphasized Harper played well down the stretch last year and being healthy should let Detroit keep its safety rotation intact. How should the Lions create the takeaways they need? By marrying disciplined front-four pressure with timely heat and an opportunistic back end. Wednesday's Seahawks-Patriots game showed the template: Sam Darnold left on the fifth play, Drew Lock managed the game, and Seattle mixed rushes to force mistakes as Drake Maye threw three interceptions. Dan Campbell is adamant Detroit does not “shoot gaps,” but when an assignment-created crease appears, defenders must attack on time. Last year's data backs the urgency. Before the Week 8 bye, the Lions produced multiple takeaways in four of the first seven games and won all four, sitting at five and two. After the bye they logged one takeaway against Minnesota, then just one more across the next four weeks, with the lone multi-takeaway outing coming in the Dallas win, 44 to 30. The six-turnover Minnesota game was an anomaly. This roster's upgraded front, featuring Aidan Hutchinson, Jack Campbell anchoring the middle, DJ Wonnum as an upgrade over Marcus Davenport, and instant juice from Dorsey Moore, is built to stress quarterbacks and feed ball-hawking opportunities. What did Wednesday's game say about QB depth and Detroit's plan if Jared Goff misses snaps? It reinforced that defense and one explosive play can carry a game when a backup enters. Jeff Risdon admitted he asked the same question fans did, if quarterback Jared Goff goes down, are the Lions ready for Josh Dobbs to play right away? The answer is that takeaways shorten the field and one shot can be enough when playmakers deliver. With wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit has that explosive punch. Add encouraging depth news, like cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. logging a full participation and linebacker Jimmy Rolder trending toward his NFL debut, and the formula for Sunday, then a quick-turn Thursday, is clear: defend on schedule, steal possessions, and let the stars finish drives. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #christianizien #thomasharper #dorseymoorehamstring #mackaywingogroin #aidanhutchinson #jackcampbellinthemiddle #djwonnumovermarcusdavenport #jaredgoffbackupplan #joshdobbsreadiness #amon-rast.brown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions 2026 Season Preview Roundtable The waiting is over. The NFL season opens tonight, and by Sunday afternoon the Detroit Lions will finally begin answering the questions that have followed them through an unusually eventful offseason. On the Detroit Lions Podcast, Chris, Jeff Risdon, and Michael Grey come together for the Detroit Lions 2026 Season Preview Roundtable, a full examination of what this team is, what it could become, and what Lions fans should watch as the 2026 season begins. Detroit opens Sunday at Ford Field against the New Orleans Saints, but the bigger conversation is about the next 17 games and whether this roster can put the disappointment of 2025 behind it. What Should Lions Fans Expect From the 2026 Offense? The offense still begins with Jared Goff, but it will not look exactly like the unit Lions fans have grown accustomed to watching. Drew Petzing takes over as offensive coordinator, bringing a different voice and fresh concepts to an offense that still possesses some of the best skill talent in the NFL. Jahmyr Gibbs enters the season as the unquestioned centerpiece of the backfield, with Isiah Pacheco unavailable to begin the year. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams give Goff two proven difference-makers outside, while Sam LaPorta remains capable of punishing defenses that devote too much attention elsewhere. The biggest question is up front. Penei Sewell has moved to left tackle, rookie Blake Miller opens at right tackle, and Juice Scruggs steps into the middle while Cade Mays recovers. Detroit is also still sorting through its options at left guard. If that reconstructed offensive line settles quickly, the Lions have enough firepower to remain one of the NFL's most difficult offenses to defend. If it does not, everything becomes harder. Defense, Injuries, and the Players Who Must Step Forward Detroit's defense may ultimately determine the ceiling of the 2026 Lions season. Aidan Hutchinson remains the player every opposing offense must account for first, and Detroit has invested in creating more help around him. The challenge is turning that depth into consistent pressure rather than relying on Hutchinson to manufacture disruption by himself. The secondary enters September under greater strain. Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch will miss the opening portion of the season, forcing Detroit to lean on its veteran depth while waiting for two of its most important defenders to return. That puts added pressure on the corners, the pass rush, and the communication throughout the back end. Sunday's matchup with New Orleans provides an immediate test. Chris Olave gives the Saints a legitimate problem for Detroit's secondary, while New Orleans brings a defensive front capable of testing the rebuilt Lions offensive line. How Confident Should We Be in the Detroit Lions? That is where the roundtable gets interesting. Is this a playoff team? Can Detroit reclaim the NFC North? Which young player makes the leap? What position group carries the most risk? What has to happen for the Lions to become a serious January threat? Chris, Jeff, and Michael will make their predictions, identify breakout candidates and potential trouble spots, discuss the floor and ceiling of the Lions roster, and put their confidence levels on the record before the first snap of the season. The roster still features Goff, Gibbs, St. Brown, Williams, Sewell, Hutchinson and Alim McNeill. The talent is real. So are the questions. Join us live for the Detroit Lions 2026 Season Preview Roundtable as we tell Lions fans what to expect, what to watch, and what will ultimately determine whether 2026 becomes the rebound season Detroit believes it can deliver. #DetroitLions, #Lions, #DetroitLionsPodcast, #OnePride, #DetroitLions2026, #LionsSeasonPreview, #LionsRoster, #JaredGoff, #JahmyrGibbs, #AidanHutchinson, #AmonRaStBrown, #JamesonWilliams, #DanCampbell, #NFL2026, #LionsVsSaints #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #detroitlions2026 #detroitlionsseasonpreview #lionsseasonpreview #2026lionsseason #lionsroster #detroitlionsroster #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #aidanhutchinson #drewpetzing #dancampbell #lionsvssaints #nfcnorth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A busy Labor Day in Detroit Lions land requires a few quick-hit takes from the Daily DLP for Tuesday, September 8th. First and foremost, the Lions made some roster moves. LB Joe Bachie is now on the active 53-man roster. Bachie fills one of the two openings and will likely play only on special teams, though he did have a decent training camp and preseason on defense, too. The Lions re-added RB Jabari Small and OC Seth McLaughlin back to the practice squad, while placing OL Mason Miller on practice squad IR. That effectively ends Miller's season, which is a disappointment for a player who showed some promise as a developmental center. Dan Campbell laid out the team's RB2 role, making sure that Sione Vaki was prominently featured in his answer. Vaki and Jacob Saylors will both earn reps, and Campbell called it a committee situation behind All-Pro starter, Jahmyr Gibbs. The Lions named seven team captains. That's a lot of leadership and it reflects just how strong the high-end portion of Detroit's roster looks. Finally, a look at how the team fared defensively when facing 13 personnel. Spoiler alert: it wasn't pretty, especially against the pass. We offer reasons why that might change for the better in 2026 too. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #sionevaki #jacobsaylors #jahmyrgibbs #sethmclaughlin #masonmiller #jabarismall #13personnel #lionsrostermoves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's Daily DLP looks back at Week 1 of the 2025 season. We compare the Detroit Lions starting lineup in that game against the Green Bay Packers, a game we'd all rather forget, and the expected starting lineup for the Lions in Week 1, when Detroit hosts the Saints this coming Sunday. Some things are constant. The exceptional talent at the skill positions, led by QB Jared Goff, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown and RB Jahmyr Gibbs, is back and arguably better than ever with the growth of WR Jameson Williams. The tight end room is deeper, and so is the overhauled offensive line. Trading out some starters up front opens some questions about just how good the line will be, but Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany should be better in their second year together as the starting guards. Defensively, the Lions dramatically improved along the front four. It's a deeper group and a more dynamic pass rush room. The days of Marcus Davenport starting across from All-Pro Aidan Hutchinson are a distant memory. The biggest change on defense is at safety. Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph entered the 2025 season as the NFL's best safety tandem. Neither will be on the field until at least Week 5. The Lions will rely on veteran newcomer Chuck Clark and a combination of Avonte Maddox and Thomas Harper to fill the void. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #aidanhutchinson #djwonnum #tyleikwilliams #alimmcneill #jaredgoff #amon-rast.brown #samlaporta #jahmyrgibbs #righttacklequestion #safetygroupstepback Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions 2026 Offseason Retrospective The NFL season is finally here, which makes this the right moment to stop looking forward for an hour and look back at how the Detroit Lions got here. The 2026 offseason began with a 9-8 season that felt like a hard reset after two years of NFC North contention. Since then, Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have reshaped the roster, changed the offensive leadership, rebuilt key parts of the line of scrimmage, and made several decisions that will define whether Detroit returns to January football. On this episode of the Detroit Lions Podcast, Chris and Jeff Risdon work through the entire offseason, from free agency and the draft to training camp, roster cuts, injuries, and the final tuning of the team that will open the regular season. Free Agency Changed the Shape of the Lions The biggest changes were not cosmetic. Taylor Decker and Graham Glasgow were released, David Montgomery was traded to Houston, and Detroit began rebuilding an offensive line that had lost some of the stability that once defined the offense. Penei Sewell moved to left tackle. Detroit used the 17th pick on Clemson tackle Blake Miller, added Cade Mays and Larry Borom in free agency, and acquired Juice Scruggs in the Montgomery trade. The result is a younger line with more athletic upside, but also one of the clearest early-season questions on the roster. The backfield changed just as dramatically. Isiah Pacheco arrived to complement Jahmyr Gibbs, only for injuries to interrupt that plan before Week 1. Gibbs, meanwhile, went from an offseason hold-in to a long-term extension through 2030. What looked like a committee in March now begins the season with Gibbs carrying even more responsibility. Drew Petzing also takes over as offensive coordinator, giving Jared Goff another system to master while Campbell looks to restore the offensive identity that slipped during 2025. The Draft, Defense, and an Offseason Full of Complications Holmes used the draft to attack the trenches. Miller arrived in Round 1, Detroit moved up for Michigan edge Derrick Moore in Round 2, and the class added more defensive depth behind them. That mattered because the defense spent the summer absorbing its own turbulence. The Terrion Arnold situation forced Detroit to rework the cornerback picture. D.J. Reed and Rock Ya-Sin enter the season as the likely outside starters, while the club continues sorting through nickel and depth options. The bigger immediate concern is safety. Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch will begin the season unavailable, forcing Detroit to rely on veteran depth until two of its best defensive players can return. Cade Mays and Pacheco are also sidelined, meaning the roster Holmes assembled in March is already different from the one Campbell will take into September. So How Good Are the 2026 Detroit Lions? That is where the retrospective becomes a confidence check. The stars are still stars. Goff, Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sewell, Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill give Detroit a legitimate championship-level core. The defensive front looks deeper, the rookie class has produced real contributors, and the roster survived cutdown with difficult decisions at multiple positions. The question is whether the rebuilt offensive line and temporary holes on defense can hold together until reinforcements arrive. Join Chris and Jeff for the Detroit Lions 2026 Offseason Retrospective as they grade every phase of the offseason and decide whether this team enters the new NFL season stronger, weaker, or simply different from the one that walked off the field in January. #DetroitLions, #Lions, #DetroitLionsPodcast, #OnePride, #DetroitLions2026, #LionsRoster, #NFLOffseason, #BradHolmes, #DanCampbell, #DrewPetzing, #JaredGoff, #JahmyrGibbs, #BlakeMiller, #AidanHutchinson, #NFLNews #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #detroitlions2026 #detroitlionsoffseason #lionsroster #nfloffseason #bradholmes #dancampbell #drewpetzing #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #blakemiller #derrickmoore #detroitlionsfreeagency #detroitlionsdraft Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions must manage running back Jahmyr Gibbs' snaps because Isaiah Pacheco faces a multi-month back recovery and Brian Branch is tracking for an October return. Sam LaPorta looks ready now, but ongoing back management matters. Waiving Seth McLaughlin and Jabari Small preserved flexibility amid concussion timelines. Why were Seth McLaughlin and Jabari Small waived instead of placed on IR? The Lions chose waivers to keep near-term roster and practice-squad flexibility, not season-long IR limits. Lions center Seth McLaughlin sustained a concussion around August 27. Dr. Jimmy Liao said his three-year concussion review showed a median 11-day return to play, so McLaughlin's waiver was a slight surprise based on timeline alone. Lions running back Jabari Small was a different case. There was strong concern on film for a second concussion in preseason game three, though no official diagnosis was announced. Dr. Jimmy Liao warned that if Small truly suffered two concussions within eight days, he is out for at least a month and his functional threshold to absorb contact becomes a season-long concern. As Jeff Risdon explained, waiving rather than injury-settling preserves the Lions' ability to bring him back to the practice squad without the settlement waiting period risk. What about other IR decisions like Cade Mays? Lions offensive lineman Cade Mays went to IR with a wrist fracture. Dr. Jimmy Liao noted typical wrist recoveries can range from about three to eight weeks in comparable NFL examples, so IR indicates a longer timeline than a straightforward fracture. He also flagged Lions offensive lineman Ben Bartch's Lisfranc history as unreliable, noting Dan Campbell's earlier disappointment with the slow recovery pace. How severe is Isaiah Pacheco's back injury and what does it mean for Jahmyr Gibbs? Lions running back Isaiah Pacheco's back issue is severe and extends past a standard soft-tissue timetable. Going on IR rules him out until at least October 11, which Dr. Jimmy Liao characterized as an eight-plus-week back injury with potential spinal involvement. He called Pacheco a “10 out of 10” risk right now. As Jeff Risdon noted, when Brad Holmes said “we hope that we see him this year,” his heart sank. With David Montgomery traded, Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs becomes the bell cow, and Dr. Jimmy Liao emphasized true load management to preserve Jahmyr Gibbs through 17 games and the playoffs. Lions running back Jacob Saylors must step up as the No. 2 while Pacheco rehabs. Can Sam LaPorta hold up all season with a back issue and an early short week? Yes, if the Lions keep managing his workload. Lions tight end Sam LaPorta looked fully functional in camp. Jeff Risdon observed full-speed blocking and difficult catches without visible limitation. Dr. Jimmy Liao cautioned that repetitive blocking hyperextension stresses the spine and can trigger disc recurrence, so practice and contact management are key. Does the Sunday-Thursday turn and field change matter? The Lions open Sunday at home on turf, then play Thursday night at the Buffalo Bills on grass. Dr. Jimmy Liao said surface changes can matter, but both teams share the short-week strain and the Lions can mitigate by trimming full-contact practice exposure and prioritizing recovery between games. When will Brian Branch return from his Achilles tear? Lions defensive back Brian Branch remains on timetable. Dr. Jimmy Liao pegged typical Achilles return at 10 to 11 months, which places Brian Branch, injured December 4, in the October-to-early-November window. IR to start the season is expected and not a setback. Jeff Risdon watched Brian Branch working strenuously on the side and moving well, and Dr. Jimmy Liao is cautiously optimistic Brian Branch can get close to 100 percent once acclimated. The goal is sustainable availability in October, not just an early cameo. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jeffrisdon #jimmyliao #jahmyrgibbs #samlaporta #brianbranch #jaredgoff #dancampbell #bradholmes #jacobsaylors #ennisrakestrawjr. #cademays #benbartch #sethmclaughlin #jabarismall #buffalobills Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions built their 53 around an attacking defense and flexible offense. They kept waves of defensive linemen to stunt and overload, and they set a short-term interior offensive line and running back plan until injuries clear. Jacob Saylors is RB2 while Isaiah Pacheco is on IR for the first four games. What does the 53-man roster say about the Lions identity on defense? The Lions will attack with multiple fronts and pressure packages. As Scott Bischoff said, Detroit showed overloaded looks and disruptive stunts in the preseason, a clear shift from a static approach. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions, headlines a deep edge group with edge rusher Derrick Moore, Detroit Lions, and interior disruptors like defensive tackle Alim McNeill, Detroit Lions, and defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard, Detroit Lions. Safety Chuck Clark, Detroit Lions, benefits from faster pressure, as do safety Avonte Maddox, Detroit Lions, safety Christian Izien, Detroit Lions, and cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Detroit Lions. With linebacker Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions, plus linebackers Derrick Barnes, Detroit Lions, Malcolm Rodriguez, Detroit Lions, and Jimmy Rolder, Detroit Lions, Aaron Glenn can roll 4-2-5, five-man fronts, and creative mug looks to speed up quarterbacks. How will the offensive line function until Cade Mays returns? Center Juice Scruggs, Detroit Lions, starts for now, and the group will grow its chemistry week to week. Scott Bischoff emphasized the interior timing changes with different centers and how the run game timing will evolve, then stabilize when Cade Mays returns. The projected five: left tackle Penei Sewell, Detroit Lions, left guard Christian Mahogany, Detroit Lions, center Juice Scruggs, Detroit Lions, right guard Tate Ratledge, Detroit Lions, and right tackle Blake Miller, Detroit Lions. Depth includes center Seth McLaughlin, Detroit Lions, and swing tackle Larry Borom, Detroit Lions. Russell Brown noted the staff's confidence in line coach Hank Fraley's cross-training, with Scruggs and McLaughlin keeping protections functional until Mays is back. Who is RB2 and what happens while Isaiah Pacheco is on IR? Running back Jacob Saylors, Detroit Lions, is RB2 behind running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions, while running back Isaiah Pacheco, Detroit Lions, is on IR for the first four games. Russell Brown noted Dan Campbell has said he is comfortable with Saylors in that role. Russell Brown also questioned how running back Sione Vaki, Detroit Lions, will be used, since his preseason work skewed to special teams. Scott Bischoff floated a short-term depth addition if needed, especially for fourth-quarter carries in games where Detroit protects leads. How will Detroit balance a light WR room with tight ends? Detroit will flex tight ends to cover WR4/WR5 duties. As Scott Bischoff laid out, tight end Jackson Meeks, Detroit Lions, can split out as a de facto fifth receiver in 12 or 13 personnel, letting tight end Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions, play a full combo role while tight end Brock Wright, Detroit Lions, handles more in-line work. Tight end Tyler Conklin, Detroit Lions, offers additional versatility. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions, and wide receiver Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions, headline a lean WR group with wide receiver Tay Martin, Detroit Lions, rounding it out. The structure fits Detroit Lions Podcast recurring themes: multiple tight ends, motion, pin-and-pull, duo, and varied route families that keep the ball moving without needing six traditional wide receivers. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #amon-rast.brown #samlaporta #peneisewell #jackcampbell #aidanhutchinson #brianbranch #kirbyjoseph #juicescruggs #tateratledge #blakemiller #chuckclark #avontemaddox #christianizien Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP for Thursday, September 3rd is a meaty one. Lions GM Brad Holmes and Assistant VP Ray Agnew met with the media on Wednesday and brought up a number of topics worthy of discussion. From the Terrion Arnold timing and replacement plan, or lack thereof, to adding more juice to the defensive line with players like rookies Skyler Gill-Howard and Eric O'Neill, Holmes and Agnew handled questions about the roster constitution and the decisions behind the moves. Detroit also made some more roster moves, waiving Seth McLaughlin and Jabari Small days after each made the initial 53-man roster. Injuries to both affected the timing, and we explain why it just might be a savvy bit of roster gymnastics from the Lions that allows both to stay in the Den. We also break down who might be getting added to the 53-man roster and why Tom Kennedy deserves to be one of them. Plus, a quick breakdown of new practice squad OL Elijah Klein. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #sethmclaughlin #jabarismall #practicesquad #bradholmes #rayagnew #elijahklein #masonmiller #tateratledge #tomkennedy #dominiclovett Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions placed running back Isiah Pacheco on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four weeks. Detroit also re-signed tight end Tyler Conklin to the 53-man roster, restoring depth at tight end without changing the offensive identity. These moves clarify early running back roles and the immediate return game plan. Why did the Detroit Lions put Isiah Pacheco on IR now? Because his back injury, coupled with a knee issue, requires a minimum four-week shutdown and the team planned for it. As Jeff Risdon noted, this explains why Detroit initially carried five running backs and then added Detroit Lions running back Jabari Small. Detroit Lions running back Jacob Saylors is the clear No. 2 after a strong preseason, benefitting from a full offseason to refresh after a full UFL workload last year. The staff can lean on Saylors while Small factors in as RB3/4 and on returns. Jeff Risdon also speculated the back issue could extend Isaiah Pacheco's absence beyond four weeks, a nod to the challenges of practicing and playing through back pain. What does Tyler Conklin's return mean for tight end usage? It adds proven depth and special teams flexibility, not a shift to a 13-personnel base. Detroit Lions tight end Tyler Conklin overlaps with Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright's TE2 profile, allowing the staff to deploy roles cleanly around Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta. Conklin's presence lets the staff use the third tight end in more receiver-like and special teams roles, and Conklin may be inactive some weeks if special teams tilt roster math. Per Jeff Risdon, the Lions showed more 12 packages in camp but did not live in 13. Expect Drew Petzing and Mike Kafka to tailor groupings to their threats, not to a rigid template. Who returns kicks and punts in Week 1? Tom Kennedy is the expected punt returner and Jabari Small will get the first crack at kick returns. Detroit lacks a single locked-in answer, so they can elevate up to three practice-squad players to cover the roles. Jeff Risdon pointed to Tom Kennedy's reliability on punts and Jabari Small's fit on kicks. The door remains open for additional competition as game plans and health evolve. How did depth change on the offensive line and practice squad? Detroit added Detroit Lions offensive lineman Elijah Klein to the practice squad and brought back Detroit Lions slot receiver Dominic Lovett, while reinforcing tackle depth. Klein has over 400 snaps of NFL experience, can play multiple spots, and is best at left guard, aligning with Detroit Lions guard Christian Mahogany and Detroit Lions guard Ben Bartch. Detroit Lions right guard Tate Ratledge has the right guard job, working alongside rookie Detroit Lions right tackle Blake Miller and new Detroit Lions center Cade Mays. Detroit also remains bullish on developmental tackle Detroit Lions offensive tackle Devin Cochran. What about Eric Hunter? Linebacker Erick Hunter chose a 53-man roster spot with the New England Patriots instead of a Detroit practice-squad return. With Detroit Lions linebacker Devin White joining Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell atop a deep room, Hunter pursued immediate snaps elsewhere, a path Jeff Risdon compared to the Trevor Nowaske precedent. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #isaiahpachecotoinjuredreserve #tylerconklinbackon53-manroster #jacobsaylorsasno.2runningback #jabarismallonkickreturns #tomkennedyhandlingpunts #more12personnellooks #noshiftto13personnelbase #samlaportafocaltightend #brockwrightte2role #elijahkleinaddedtopracticesquad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions will lean on a fierce defensive line and Dan Campbell's back-to-basics reset to cover a thin secondary in Week 1 at the New Orleans Saints. Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff is the roster's oldest player at 31, the team is younger, and Jameson Williams is primed for a massive year, but RB2 remains unsettled. Did Dan Campbell's reset make the Detroit Lions better right now? Yes, the focus shift worked. Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell cut the noise, scrapped joint practices, mixed select veterans into preseason snaps, and built one of the NFL's youngest rosters. As Michael Grey noted, Jared Goff is the oldest Lion at 31, and the roster is young, hungry and healthy. Campbell emphasized 2022 and 2023 habits, eliminated the distraction of joint-practice fights, and refused to be held hostage by reputations. The result is a locked-in group headed to Week 1 in New Orleans. Can the defensive line save a depleted secondary? Yes, the front is built to drive the defense while the back end stabilizes. Detroit enters without a true nose tackle, instead loading up on twitchy, package-ready linemen who can create havoc. Three of the four expected starters in the secondary are out, including Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch and Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph, and Terrion Arnold sits on the commissioner's exempt list. As Michael Grey said, “the secondary is easily the weakest position group on the team, period, full stop.” Detroit Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson needs help, and Detroit added it with Detroit Lions edge rusher DJ Wonnum and Detroit Lions edge Ahmed Hassanein at big end, plus a healthy Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill. With more nickel and dime on deck and fewer three-linebacker sets, the pass rush must drive stops while Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell anchors the second level. Is it finally Jameson Williams season in Detroit? Yes, and the production is already there. Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams stacked back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, including 1,117 yards last year, and he dominated camp. His stop route on the boundary is shredding defenders, and the trust with Jared Goff is carved in stone. Jared Goff has repeatedly praised Williams' growth over the past seasons, and Williams' sideline leadership with the receiver room showed up all preseason. Expect the staff to feature him from Week 1 rather than forgetting him for a month and a half as Michael Grey criticized last year. What is the RB2 plan and how does Drew Petzing fit with Jared Goff? RB2 is unresolved, and protecting Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs' workload is non-negotiable. Detroit needs a committee to siphon roughly ten carries and snaps so Jahmyr Gibbs can be deployed in routes, in the slot, and on designed passes without overuse. On the headset, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Drew Petzing is learning the Lions' language from Jared Goff. As Michael Grey relayed, Jared Goff explained that Petzing is being taught the offense and will build from it, which makes Jared Goff's experience and communication invaluable to the play-caller. The mandate is clear: feature Jahmyr Gibbs and Jameson Williams, let the D-line drive the defense, and ride the culture reset into Week 1. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #jamesonwilliams #dancampbell #aidanhutchinson #brianbranch #kirbyjoseph #djwonnum #ahmedhassanein #aleemmcneill #jackcampbell #drewpetzing #neworleanssaints #detroitlionsdefensiveline #nickeldefense #dimepackage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP from the Detroit Lions Podcast dives deep into the team's initial 14-man practice squad signings on Monday. Before getting into the players who constitute the Lions practice squad, host Jeff Risdon reviewed some of the more intriguing, surprising moves to get to the 53-man roster. Wide receiver Greg Dortch getting cut and now moving onto the Buffalo Bills remains a head-scratcher from a football standpoint. The Lions don't have anyone else who can do what Dortch offered as a receiver and a return man. Tyler Conklin not making the team also gets covered, with the knowledge that Jackson Meeks offers a different element than the veteran. It's a pragmatic choice by the Lions, and also rewards Meeks for his outstanding special teams contributions all summer. Those special teams are where RB Jabari Small likely made the team as well. The practice squad has 14 players who were cut by Detroit on Sunday. Two spots remain open. One of them might be for UDFA LB Erick Hunter. While Hunter isn't on the list, it does not necessarily mean that the Lions haven't tried to get him back. Hunter might be weighing other opportunities with different teams that offer a more immediate path to playing time than what he has in Detroit. Two 2025 draftees, Dominic Lovett and Dan Jackson, are also not on the list. It's a disappointing lack of progress for the two Georgia Bulldogs, taken late in the ‘25 draft. While frustrating, missing on late Day 3 picks is not cause for alarm or shame for GM Brad Holmes. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #gregdortch #jabarismall #sionevaki #jacobsaylors #jacksonmeeks #tylerconklin #brockwright #nickwhiteside #masonmiller #sethmclaughlin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions Cut Roster To 53 The preseason is over. The evaluations are finished. Now comes the part of the NFL calendar that can change careers in a single phone call. The Detroit Lions close August with their 53-man roster cutdown deadline arriving at 6 p.m. Sunday, only one day after a 25-16 preseason win over the Indianapolis Colts. By the time Chris and Jeff Risdon go live at 8 p.m. on the Detroit Lions Podcast, the initial roster should be set and the real work will begin: understanding why each decision was made, which players survived, who could return on the practice squad, and where Brad Holmes may still be looking for help. Colts Finale Gives Detroit One Last Set of Answers Saturday was never really about beating Indianapolis. It was about giving the back half of the Lions roster one final chance to force difficult conversations. Josh Dobbs made his strongest argument of the summer in the QB2 competition, leading three touchdown drives and playing efficient, controlled football. Luke Altmyer had been one of Detroit's best preseason stories, but turnovers in the finale complicated an already fascinating decision. Even after the Lions make their cut, the quarterback depth chart may not be completely settled if an intriguing veteran becomes available elsewhere. Jacob Saylors made another forceful case at running back with a 100-yard afternoon, while Lucky Jackson's productive receiving day provided another reminder of how painful some of these Detroit Lions Roster Cuts could become. That is the sign of a deeper football team. The most interesting names on cut day are no longer obvious camp bodies. They are players who have demonstrated legitimate NFL ability. The Hardest Decisions on the Lions Roster Running back, wide receiver, defensive line, cornerback and linebacker all carry real intrigue. The secondary deserves particular attention. Detroit has already absorbed major change there this offseason, and the health of Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch means the early-season depth chart may look very different from the version the Lions hope to field later. Every corner and safety decision therefore carries added weight. The defensive line presents the opposite problem. Detroit has built enough competition that useful players may simply run out of seats. Those are the cuts other teams watch closely on the waiver wire. Then there is the surprise cut. Every year produces one. A strong preseason can make a player difficult to waive, but roster construction involves special teams, positional flexibility, contracts and projected roles that never appear in a box score. Cutdown Day Is Only the Beginning The initial 53-man roster is not the final roster. Waiver claims arrive next, followed by the construction of the practice squad and potential veteran additions from around the league. That will be central to tonight's show. Chris and Jeff will react to the Detroit Lions roster cuts as they become official, identify the decisions that could come back to haunt Detroit, evaluate the depth chart, and discuss whether the roster is strong enough to withstand the injuries already affecting key positions. Then comes the confidence check. Detroit enters the season with legitimate expectations. The question on cutdown night is not simply whether Brad Holmes found 53 players. It is whether he kept enough depth, flexibility and NFL-ready talent to get this team through September and position the Lions for the season they believe they can have. Join us live for Detroit Lions Cut Roster To 53 as the preseason ends and the real roster takes shape. #DetroitLions, #Lions, #DetroitLionsPodcast, #OnePride, #DetroitLionsRosterCuts, #LionsRoster, #NFLRosterCuts, #LionsDepthChart, #CutdownDay, #JoshDobbs, #LukeAltmyer, #JacobSaylors, #BradHolmes, #DanCampbell, #DetroitLionsNews #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #joshuadobbs #lukealtmyer #gregdortch #tomkennedy #nickwhiteside #benstille #aidanhutchinson #djwonnum #kerbyjoseph #brianbranch #jackcampbell #jacobsaylors #dancampbell #detroitlionsrostercuts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions will sit their starters against the Indianapolis Colts, and the outcome is irrelevant, this game decides jobs. The QB2 call turns on Lions quarterback Josh Dobbs eliminating turnovers while Lions quarterback Luke Altmyer delivers mistake-free football. Special teams performance will settle multiple roster battles and practice-squad invites. Will starters like Jared Goff and Penei Sewell play? No. Lions quarterback Jared Goff and Lions right tackle Penei Sewell are not expected to play, and the focus shifts to roster-bubble evaluations. Healthy scratches are a positive signal for players on the cusp, while those who dress are being tested for role clarity, depth value, and reliability. Lions offensive lineman Miles Frazier is a key evaluation, and he needs snaps. The staff can test him at tackle and guard to see where he holds up best with regulars out. Lions tackle Larry Borom is another usage watch, a workload that will hint at the staff's confidence in his role. Lions guard Tate Ratledge is not expected to play, further underscoring that the priority is health over risk in this preseason finale. Who wins the Detroit Lions QB2 job, Josh Dobbs or Luke Altmyer? Josh Dobbs holds the job if he protects the ball, but Luke Altmyer can take it by avoiding disasters. As Jeff Risdon noted, the issue with Dobbs is not the highs; it is the lows, including the kind of interception he threw against Washington that cannot happen for a backup. If Dobbs plays a clean game and keeps the chains moving, he stabilizes QB2. If Altmyer manages the offense without turnovers while Dobbs repeats the same mistakes, Altmyer creates a real path onto the 53. The staff does not care about the score in this game, they care about decision-making and risk management from the backup spot. Which roster battles will special teams decide today? Several. As Jeff Risdon emphasized, Lions head coach Dan Campbell has used special teams as the tiebreaker in position battles. Look for blocking quality on punt and kick returns, lane integrity on coverage, and who draws or avoids penalties. Lions wide receiver Tay Martin and Lions wide receiver Jackson Meeks have helped themselves with their special teams work. Lions slot receiver Dominic Lovett has been inconsistent in the phase, and Lions wide receiver Tom Kennedy has been fine but outplayed by others on units. Lions wide receiver Lucky Jackson has also flashed. In the return-block core, Lions defensive lineman Anthony Lucas and Lions edge defender Eric O'Neill have stacked good reps in the middle of the kick-return unit. These reps impact not only the final 53 but also the 16 practice-squad spots. Could Detroit add a quarterback after waivers? Yes. If a cleaner decision-maker than Dobbs shakes free, the Lions will consider it. As Jeff Risdon reminded, Lions quarterbacks coach Mark Brunell once said quarterback Sam Howell has Pro Bowl potential, so a name like that, if waived, would merit a look. Any coaching wrinkles to watch? Expect a health-first approach, but there could be fun situational tests, including a long try for Lions kicker Jake Bates, even from 59 or 69 yards, and the occasional pressure call. The goal is evaluation, not a scoreboard win. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #peneisewell #joshdobbs #lukealtmyer #dancampbell #jakebates #milesfrazier #larryborom #tateratledge #dominiclovett #tomkennedy #taymartin #jacksonmeeks #anthonylucas #indianapoliscolts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP and host Jeff Risdon walk listeners and viewers through the latest Detroit Lions 53-man roster projection ahead of the team's final preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts. Some of the more difficult decisions earn extra attention. Among them: --Keeping 2 QBs instead of 3 --Activating Brian Branch from the PUP list to start the season --Tay Martin landing WR5 over a deep group --Jackson Meeks and Erick Hunter crashing the roster party --Injuries impacting the safety, RB and OL spots #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #53-manrosterprojection #jaredgoff #benstille #joshuadobbs #erickhunter #trevornowaske #taymartin #isaacteslaa #milesfrazier Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP breaks down the Detroit Lions preseason victory in Ford Field over the Washington Commanders. What can be taken away from the game, from the players and how they performed, to the overall Lions team and depth. There were a couple of unfortunate injuries that have led to some roster changes. Can the new additions make enough of an impression in a short amount of time? Host Jeff Risdon goes over some of the bigger takeaways from the game. Some players helped themselves or upped their status with the team. Among the winners: Derrick Moore, Trevor Nowaske, Levi Onwuzurike and Jackson Meeks. Others did not help themselves. And then there were some who treaded water in a weird way, including QB Josh Dobbs. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #preseason #joshdobbs #lukealtmyer #jackcampbell #derekbarnes #alexanzalone #levionwuzurike #trevornowaske #jacksonmeeks #taymartin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions will use the Washington Commanders preseason home game to sort interior offensive line depth, clarify wide receiver three, and test nickel rotations while select starters play, as Dan Campbell stated. The order of substitutions will tell the story. Coaches want second-game data points on risers and rebound candidates. Which starters will play and why does it matter? Some Detroit Lions starters will play, not all, and the substitution order will reveal priority roles more than the score. As Jeff Risdon noted on the Detroit Lions Podcast, if quarterback Jared Goff sits there is no point in exposing wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown or offensive tackle Penei Sewell, while tight end Sam LaPorta needs only a brief series because his back issue can recur. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs is part of that protect-your-core logic. Expect the focus to be on who plays with whom and when, not how long the first group stays out there. What are the key Detroit Lions offensive line battles? Interior depth is unsettled and this game will shape the center and guard pecking order. Guard Ben Bartch, center Seth McLaughlin, and guard Tate Ratledge are central to the mix, and the staff will test combinations and timing to see who sticks. Offensive lineman Miller Frazier must rebound after penalties and uneven snaps while bouncing from right guard to left tackle in Cincinnati. Offensive tackle Blake Miller needs to shore up his inside shoulder in pass protection, and offensive tackle Larry Borom should post a clean slate to solidify the swing role. The sequence of reps across center and guard will be the clearest depth-chart signal. Who owns WR3 and the last wide receiver spots? Greg Dortch has outperformed Isaac TeSlaa this summer, making Washington a swing game for wide receiver three. A sure-handed, physical outing from Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa can calm concerns, but more drops or tips would strengthen Lions wide receiver Greg Dortch for WR3. Tay Martin is the front-runner for WR5. Depth pressure comes from Lions wide receivers Lucky Jackson, Cedrick Wilson, Malik Cunningham, Tom Kennedy, and Dominic Lovett. The staff can keep only so many, so special teams value and mistake-free play will separate the final few. What should we watch on defense and special teams? Nickel snaps remain open, with Lions defensive back Thomas Harper factoring as a nickel-safety hybrid and situational usage in play. With starters scheduled to see the field, Jeff Risdon expects a brief look at Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill before the rotation turns to depth pieces. Practice has shown Lions defensive tackles McKade Wingo and Skipper Gill-Howard repping ahead of Lions defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike, and the second preseason game can validate that order. Undrafted pushes continue with Lions edge rusher Eric O'Neill and Lions linebacker Erick Hunter stacking good tape. On offense, Lions running back Sione Vaki is a special teams lock, but this is a chance to validate the runner piece against live tackling alongside Lions running backs Jacob Saylors and Jabari Small. Bottom line, performances matter far more than the score, and no injuries is the priority. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #lionspreseason #washingtoncommanders #kelvinsheppard #erico'neilljaredgoff #samlaporta #amon-rast.brown #benbartch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP goes through listener mailbag questions culled from the Detroit Lions Podcast Patreon Slack channel. Lots of great questions that host Jeff Risdon offers his best knowledge and insight to answer as cleanly and succinctly as possible. Among the questions: What are the biggest changes to the Lions offense under Drew Petzing so far? Can we trust in the changes we're seeing in the practices and preseason to carry into the regular season on defense? Who is the biggest surprise cut candidate? Any free agents looking for a ring worth signing? Most competitive roster decisions in making the 53-man roster, and will the Lions once again keep fewer than 53 on that initial roster like they did a year ago? #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #mailbag #preseason #lionstrainingcamp #jahmyrgibbs #blakemiller #ennisrakestraw #devinwhite #sethmclaughlin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Campbell said most Detroit Lions starters will play Saturday against the Washington Commanders. The staff wants live defensive reps after the Bengals preseason opener highlighted interior issues and clarified several depth battles. As host Jeff Risdon noted, not every headliner will dress, but the standard is set for a sharper outing. Will Detroit Lions starters play against Washington? Yes. Head coach Dan Campbell said most starters will play. The goal is targeted work, not a long run-up. Who stood out and who struggled on defense vs the Bengals? Linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga, Detroit Lions, and undrafted rookie linebacker Erick Hunter, Detroit Lions, topped the defensive sheet, while the interior defensive line lagged. Defensive tackle Ben Stille, Detroit Lions, graded best among the interior but played only in the final two defensive series, underscoring why more starter reps are planned. Michael Grey said the grades matched his notes on most fronts, but there was a clear disconnect on defensive lineman Chris Smith, Detroit Lions. The film and the grading service had Smith down, yet Dan Campbell specifically praised him for dirty-work execution, and the coach's view is what drives roles. Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Detroit Lions, finished near the bottom against the Bengals, then responded with a strong Monday practice, which is exactly the rebound the staff wants to see. Which Lions boosted or hurt their stock on offense? Running back Jacob Saylors, Detroit Lions, and wide receiver Cedric Wilson, Detroit Lions, helped themselves. Jacob Saylors created yardage behind uneven blocking and finished as the team's leading receiver, and Cedrick Wilson ripped a clean deep crossing catch. Undrafted rookie guard Melvin Priestley, Detroit Lions, played left guard in the second half and impressed with power. Offensive tackle Blake Miller, Detroit Lions, posted a 66.6, a solid baseline outing with teachable reps. Center Seth McLaughlin, Detroit Lions, checked in at 62.0; one sack was charged to the play where offensive tackle Larry Borom, Detroit Lions, had the losing pass-pro rep. Guard Chris Mahogany, Detroit Lions, flashed an 85.2 pass-block grade against a 56.7 run-block grade, with two penalties dragging down his total. On the other end, wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, Detroit Lions, and linemen Michael Niese, Detroit Lions, and Miles Frazier, Detroit Lions, hurt their cases. Frazier drew three penalties, and penalties crushed grades across the board. What roster battles are Detroit sorting right now? Depth, not the starting 22. Detroit is sorting the fourth and fifth defensive tackle spots, wide receiver five and six, and running back three and four. The staff values cross-team grade stacking over raw numbers, and Saturday's targeted starter snaps are designed to sharpen the defensive front while giving bubble players another clean evaluation window for the Detroit Lions Podcast crew to track. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #dancampbell #washingtoncommanders #bengalspreseasonopener #livedefensivereps #interiordefensiveline #jaredgoff #jahmyrgibbs #amon-rast.brown #peneisewell #amenogbongbemiga Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions clarified their center plan: Juice Scruggs returned to first-team work and Tate Ratledge took center reps, setting Scruggs on the Week 1 path while Detroit stress-tests depth. In a rain-soaked session after the Cincinnati preseason opener, coaches rotated interior linemen to lock in trusted combinations ahead of the NFL regular season. Did the Detroit Lions clarify who starts at center in Week 1? Yes. Juice Scruggs is tracking as the starting center, and Detroit cross-trained Tate Ratledge at center with the starters while keeping Seth McLaughlin in a reserve lane. As Jeff Risdon noted, Scruggs has NFL pivot experience and projects as the player snapping the ball to Jared Goff in Week 1. When Juice Scruggs worked at center, Tate Ratledge played right guard and Christian Mahogany played left guard. When Scruggs sat, Ratledge slid inside to center, Ben Bartch came in at left guard and Mahogany moved to right guard. McLaughlin did not run with the first team in those center looks. The staff even evaluated wet-ball snapping in the rain to prepare for outdoor games. Dan Campbell previously praised McLaughlin's effort while acknowledging his smaller build, reinforcing the view of him as a dependable backup. What roster moves and signings changed the bottom of the depth chart? Detroit waived with injury designation running back Kai Robichaux and safety Law Strickland, both hurt against the Cincinnati Bengals, and both will revert to injured reserve after waivers. Dan Campbell said Kai Robichaux broke his foot, and Law Strickland suffered a non-contact lower-leg injury. The Lions added running back Trayveon Williams and cornerback Ekow Boye-Doe. Trayveon Williams, a 2019 sixth-round pick out of Texas A&M, is a compact inside runner. Jeff Risdon noted he has 72 carries for 343 yards across seven seasons and one qualifying season as a kick returner with a poor average as a rookie, so returns are not a selling point. Ekow Boye-Doe, a Kansas State product who has spent most of his time on NFL practice squads and was in the DC Defenders camp, brings legit speed but is undersized and faces long odds after a rough first day in Allen Park. Who popped in Sunday's rain practice? Aidan Hutchinson dominated, including blowing up a screen, a timely reminder of his game-wrecking impact. Second-round pass rusher Derek Moore returned and posted a sack in team work, flashing the length and range that set him apart from Detroit's power-first edge depth. Isaac TeSlaa delivered the catch of the day in red zone, going up over coverage for a touchdown and spiking in celebration, as relayed from practice reports. Cornerback Khalil Dorsey showcased high-end ball skills with a full-extension, one-handed attempt downfield, the kind of playmaking that fuels his roster case on defense and special teams. How are the fringe jobs shaking out at WR, TE, OL and OT? Tay Martin earned first-team reps with an opening at wide receiver and continues to draw praise from Dan Campbell for his camp and special teams work, pushing into the roster conversation. Tight end Jackson Meeks, converting from wide receiver, returned and must win via special teams in a crowded room. Tackle depth got a boost with Devin Cochran back at practice after an early-week knock. The staff is maximizing versatility while Cade Mays remains out until at least early October. Dan Campbell set the standard plainly: “We do not have time to waste... we have to be able to trust you. You have to be dependable, coachable, and a competitor.” Detroit is rewarding competitors who stack dependable reps, exactly what Sunday's wet-weather practice was designed to reveal. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #juicescruggs #tateratledge #christianmahogany #sethmclaughlin #benbartch #jaredgoff #dancampbell #aidanhutchinson #isaacteslaa #taymartin #khalildorsey #ekowboye-doe #kairobichaux #lawstrickland #cincinnatibengals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jacob Saylors seized a roster-opening opportunity for the Detroit Lions, delivering fresh legs, clean routes, and hands that produced a team-high receiving output in Thursday's wet preseason loss at Cincinnati. His all-around day put him squarely in the 53-man conversation and reset the running back depth picture heading into Washington week. Can Jacob Saylors make the 53-man roster? Yes, Lions running back Jacob Saylors pushed himself into the real roster mix with a complete performance. He looked rested and explosive, processed quickly, and caught the ball naturally, finishing as Detroit's leading receiver on the night. As Jeff Risdon noted, Sailors showed the fresh-body benefit after having true recovery time since last year. The staff wants backs who trigger fast and finish, and Sailors checked those boxes. His vision and reaction stood out in the quick game and he added value in the passing attack, a critical separator for back-end roster roles. Is Isaac TeSlaa in trouble after the early turnover? No, Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa is not in danger of being cut, but he must clean up technique and urgency. He had the early-tip turnover on a ball that hit both hands and later lost a contested catch by failing to separate and secure through contact. Coaches need quicker wins off the line and faster catch-to-tuck transitions on shorter concepts. Expect Detroit to feed TeSlaa targets this week in practice and in the preseason game against the Washington Commanders to rebuild confidence and trust. What did we learn about Luke Altmyer and the offensive plan? Lions quarterback Luke Altmyer earned stock up by executing the quick-game emphasis. Detroit instructed him to get the ball out on time to his first read, and he did, which capped downfield shot volume. The wet-ball turnover appeared more like a lost handle than a designed pitch, as Jeff Risdon observed after rewatching. The takeaway is clarity, not concern: the operation prioritized rhythm, timing, and ball security in difficult rain conditions, and Altmyer delivered a steady night within that plan. Which defenders helped, and who hurt, their roster cases? Lions defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard, wearing number 50, stacked a strong week by translating his first-step wins into real disruption. When he wins immediately, he is a problem. Lions defensive lineman Ben Stille, number 78, also earned stock up with a pressure, sturdy run fits, and forcing cutbacks. Lions linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga, number 57, flashed stout build and anticipatory coverage beyond a special teams profile. Edge rushers on opposite tracks Lions edge rusher Eric O'Neil, 25 years old, strung together a sack, another QB hit that forced a throwaway, and a useful special teams rep. He profiles as a practice-squad keep if the numbers squeeze, but his pass-rush efficiency is real. Conversely, Lions defensive end Anthony Lucas stayed blocked too often and lacked effective counters after initial engagement. Secondary notes to watch Lions cornerback Roger McCreery answered with sharp leverage and run support, then finished late with Lions cornerback Keith Abney in the slot while McCreery played outside. That usage hints at how Detroit is sorting their inside-out roles. Who took a step back? Lions safety Dan Jackson must stop diving at feet in space, and Lions safety Loren Strickland did not help his case either. Lions linebacker Troy Reeder had an anonymous outing at Mike. On the line, Lions offensive lineman Miles Frazier struggled at right guard and later at left tackle with stiff, slow sets. Reps could reshuffle when the staff balances work for veterans like Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and DJ Wanham in practice. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jacobsaylors #isaacteslaa #lukealtmyer #skylergill-howard #anthonylucas #erico'neil #benstille #manuogbongbemiga #troyreeder #milesfrazier #rogermccreery #keithabney #aidanhutchinson #washingtoncommanders #cincinnatibengals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions Post Bengals Preseason Evaluation The first preseason game is rarely about the final score, and Detroit's 16-14 loss to Cincinnati was no exception. The Detroit Lions rested most of their established starters while the Bengals gave their first units early work, creating exactly the kind of uneven laboratory Dan Campbell wanted for evaluating the bottom half of his roster. Detroit's reserves hung around anyway, and by the end of the night there was far more to discuss than the scoreboard. On this episode of the Detroit Lions Podcast, Chris and Jeff Risdon break down what actually mattered from Lions vs. Bengals: which training camp battles moved, which players helped themselves, where injuries have complicated the depth chart, and whether anything we saw should change our confidence in this team. Hassanein and Saylors Turn Camp Buzz Into Game Production Ahmed Hassanein entered the night as one of the best stories of Lions training camp. Then his first snap produced a sack of Joe Burrow. That was not his only moment. Hassanein finished with two sacks, four tackles and a forced fumble, translating weeks of strong practice work into an actual NFL game environment. His development at big end suddenly looks less like an August curiosity and more like something that could affect Detroit's defensive rotation. Running back Jacob Saylors accomplished something similar. With injuries creating opportunities behind Jahmyr Gibbs and Isiah Pacheco, Saylors produced 55 rushing yards on eight carries and added three catches for 28 yards. The RB depth chart was already unsettled, and his performance ensures that conversation continues. Rookie right tackle Blake Miller also passed an important first test. Campbell's best review may have been that he barely noticed Miller during the game. For an offensive tackle making his NFL debut, that is usually a compliment. Ennis Rakestraw, Injuries and a Changing Depth Chart Few players needed these preseason snaps more than Ennis Rakestraw Jr. His first two seasons were disrupted by injuries, and this summer he has been trying to regain ground in a cornerback room where Rock Ya-Sin and Nick Whiteside have strengthened their positions. That made another injury scare particularly frustrating. Rakestraw left during the second quarter after an open-field tackle and did not return, but the immediate news was encouraging. X-rays showed no structural damage, and Campbell characterized the issue as a minor arm contusion. Mekhi Wingo also exited and could enter concussion protocol, while safety Loren Strickland required additional imaging after leaving the game. These are not simply medical notes in August. Every missed practice changes somebody else's opportunity, and those opportunities can reshape the final roster. The offense produced more mixed evaluations. Luke Altmyer flashed late with an 80-yard touchdown drive but also finished with two interceptions. Isaac TeSlaa had a difficult night, while Detroit's makeshift offensive line struggled with penalties and cohesion. Those performances matter because several of these competitions remain very much alive. What Should Lions Fans Think After Preseason Game One? The early confidence check should remain measured but positive. Detroit did not play this game to prove its starters could beat Cincinnati's starters. It played to learn about the players who might be needed when injuries inevitably arrive. Hassanein looks increasingly real. Saylors made his case. Miller looked comfortable. Rakestraw's situation remains worth watching. The defensive depth showed some bite, while several offensive depth battles remain unsettled. Join Chris and Jeff for the Detroit Lions Post Bengals Preseason Evaluation as they separate meaningful evidence from preseason noise and examine exactly what Thursday night changed for the Lions. #DetroitLions, #Lions, #DetroitLionsPodcast, #OnePride, #LionsPreseason, #LionsVsBengals, #EnnisRakestraw, #AhmedHassanein, #JacobSaylors, #BlakeMiller, #TrainingCampBattles, #LionsInjuries, #LionsDepthChart, #NFLPreseason, #DetroitLionsNews #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #detroitlionspreseason #detroitlionsnews #lionsvsbengals #cincinnatibengals #ennisrakestraw #ennisrakestrawinjury #ahmedhassanein #jacobsaylors #blakemiller #nflpreseason #trainingcampbattles #lionsdepthchart #lionsinjuries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is an actual Detroit Lions football game tonight! The Daily DLP ventures into much-welcomed game preview territory ahead of Thursday night's preseason opener between the Lions and the Cincinnati Bengals. It's the first opportunity for fans to check out the start of the 2026 Lions. Even though it's an exhibition game that doesn't count in the standings, it's still a very important night for a lot of Lions. Reflecting on the players to watch list published earlier this week, today's Daily expands on broader concepts about the game in Cincinnati. How do the Bengals specifically present opportunities for some of the Lions players battling for roster status? The Bengals are a strict 4-2-5 defense that had the lowest blitz rate in the NFL in 2025, and also sported the 31st-ranked run defense. That creates a good opportunity for the offensive linemen and running backs to show what they can do for Detroit. Because the Lions aren't expected to play any of the players whose jerseys you would see fans wearing to the game, the exhibition opener is all about the depth battles and younger players trying to make names for themselves. For some players, tonight's game might be the last time they ever wear a Lions uniform. It's important to remember that and provide perspective when the game gets into the fourth quarter and even the most ardent Detroit fans are asking, “who is that guy?” This game does have one interesting subplot: the punters. Detroit's Jack Fox and Cincinnati's Ryan Rekhow are each statistically among the best punters ever. It might be an intriguing display of punting and also of using special teams as an evaluation tool for both coaching staffs. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #cincinnatibengals #joeburrow #dancampbell #drewpetzing #mikekafka #blakemiller #sethmclaughlin #colbysorsdal #kairobichaux #jacobsailors #jabarismall #taymartin #tomkennedy #ennisrakestrawjr. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions are built to contend now, and ownership expects more than a 9-8 season. Detroit Lions owner Sheila Hamp emphasized increased roster depth and declared the team a contender, and she clarified that last season's record was not up to the organization's standards after a top-to-bottom review. Are the Detroit Lions legitimate contenders right now? Yes, the standard has moved to contention. Detroit Lions owner Sheila Hamp told Fox 2's Dan Miller that the team has more depth than ever and said they are "definitely going to be a hunter," reflecting an organization ready to win. As Jeff Risdon noted, the combination of top-end talent and improved depth removes excuses. The expectation inside Allen Park is to compete at the top of the NFC. Questions exist, as they do for all 32 teams, but Detroit's roster composition supports a win-now posture. What did Sheila Hamp really say about 9-8? She stated that 9-8 is a winning record but not good enough for the Detroit Lions. Hamp explained that after last season the organization conducted a thorough, top-to-bottom self-assessment, identified several things to improve, and corrected them, aligning the entire building on bringing a winner to Detroit. Context matters. Too many people clipped only the “nine and eight is a winning season” part. The full message rejected complacency and reaffirmed rising standards. As Jeff Risdon emphasized, the owner's tone was engaged and demanding, not satisfied. Which front office moves matter for 2026 roster building? Dwayne Joseph has been promoted to vice president of player personnel, a significant elevation that positions him for future assistant GM or GM consideration and reflects trust in his evaluations. Former offensive tackle Jamarco Jones joined Detroit as a scouting fellow, adding a recent-player lens to the evaluation process during a critical roster-shaping period. These behind-the-scenes changes matter now because they directly touch preseason evaluation, cutdown decisions, practice squad planning, and potential trades. As Jeff Risdon put it, this stretch is about sorting how many at each position to keep and who to shop or stash, and those calls funnel through player personnel and evaluations. What should fans watch in the Lions at Bengals preseason opener? Expect a stress test for the trenches and a fast read on depth. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is expected to play a couple of series, and Cincinnati is focusing on linebackers and a revamped defensive tackle group that will challenge the Detroit Lions offensive line regardless of which unit is on the field. Per Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell, Lions rookie Blake Miller will play, while Lions rookie Tate Ratledge will not. Some Bengals starters will appear, but the night is about Detroit's evaluations more than the score. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #sheilahamp #dancampbell #joeburrow #dwaynejoseph #jamarcojones #danskipper #giovannimanu #bradholmes #johndorsey #tateratledge #blakemiller #cincinnatibengals #detroitlionsoffensiveline Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest episode of the Daily DLP from the Detroit Lions Podcast reviews the training camp sessions from Monday, August 10th and Tuesday, August 11th. It's a deep dive into the sights and sounds from the Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park. Special attention is paid to the center spot, where Seth McLaughlin has taken over as the starter for the injured Cade Mays. A broken wrist will sideline Mays for 8-to-10 weeks, bleeding into the first few weeks of the regular season. McLaughlin, who missed his entire rookie season recovering from a torn Achilles, had a mixed bag of two practices, though he did get better the more he played. Josh Dobbs is the new backup quarterback, and he kicked off his time with the team with a bang on Tuesday. Dobbs' first pass in the team session was a perfect seam hit to wide receiver Cedrick Wilson between two defenders. Rookie Luke Altmyer took most of the backup reps on Tuesday after playing all of them on Monday. The Daily goes over winners from Tuesday's pit drill, pitting offensive and defensive linemen against one another. Some special teams winners from both days also emerged. There is also quite a battle brewing at running back behind Jahmyr Gibbs and with Sione Vaki sidelined with a nasty eye injury. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #aidanhutchinson #panaysewell #sethmclaughlin #michaelniese #benbartch #christianmahogany #thomasharper #brianbranch #kirbyjoseph #devinwhite #derekbarnes #jahmyrgibbs #samlaporta #joshdobbs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions center Cade Mays suffered a small broken bone in his wrist and will miss eight to ten weeks, immediately reshaping Detroit's center plan. Seth McLaughlin handled most first-team snaps today and Juice Scruggs reenters the competition once healthy, while the quarterback room tightens after Teddy Bridgewater stepped away. How serious is Cade Mays's injury and what is the timeline? Cade Mays is out eight to ten weeks with a wrist fracture, per Ian Rapoport, and the Detroit Lions will treat it as a significant in-season absence. Head coach Dan Campbell declined to give a timeline but said Mays would be back for the playoffs. As Jeff Risdon noted on the Detroit Lions Podcast, this is a major setback for an inexperienced interior line that was counting on Mays's early run-game power and communication. The most logical roster move is injured reserve with designation to return. Expecting Mays back after the bye is the early speculation. The takeaway is firm, the Lions must build cohesion without their best center for the first stretch of 2026. Who snaps the ball now for the Detroit Lions? Seth McLaughlin, Detroit Lions undrafted rookie center, took the majority of first-team reps today, and Detroit Lions center Juice Scruggs returns to that competition when his soft-tissue issue clears. Both will get evaluated with first-team work. McLaughlin is quick, smart, and agile, but undersized, and the jump from third-team work to facing Detroit Lions defensive tackle Alim McNeill and Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson showed early. He settled in with some wins and some losses, a work in progress. Scruggs, currently out for Thursday, started at center for the Houston Texans in the first half of 2024 before injuries moved him to guard. He was better at center than guard, and once healthy he will get a real look to outplay McLaughlin. Expect the staff to toggle reps to find the cleanest protections and run fits. What does Teddy Bridgewater stepping away mean for the QB room? Josh Dobbs is now the primary backup to Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, with undrafted rookie Luke Altmyer behind him. Depth if the backup must play is a concern. Jeff Risdon said he likes Dobbs personally and believes he gets it, but added that if Dobbs has to play, he is not feeling great about that. On Luke Altmyer, Risdon described the camp you would expect from an undrafted rookie with promise and a lot of work to do. The message is clear, Goff's health is paramount, and the staff needs clean centers to keep the operation on schedule. Can the offense still fire without Cade Mays? Yes, the offense remains good, but its ceiling drops without Cade Mays anchoring the interior. Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta flashed again and Jared Goff looked great overall, though he did throw a pick. The line has bright spots. Detroit Lions left guard Christian Mahogany has run away with the job and looked very good again. Detroit Lions right guard Tate Ratledge is steady in year two, but losing Mays removes a veteran support hub between him and rookie right tackle Blake Miller. Miller needs more consistency and was beaten at times by Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions edge rusher DJ Wonnum, and defensive end Ahmed Hassanein. Detroit Lions left tackle Taylor Decker's limited practice time last year showed how missed reps hurt cohesion, and Jeff Risdon stressed that five playing as one matters. With Mays out, the Lions must fast-track center continuity to keep a strong offense from slipping. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #cademays #sethmclaughlin #juicescruggs #jaredgoff #samlaporta #aidanhutchinson #djwonnum #alimmcneill #blakemiller #tateratledge #christianmahogany #taylordecker #joshdobbs #teddybridgewater #ahmedhassanein Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP shifts the focus outside of Detroit Lions training camp for a day, inviting Andrew Harbaugh back for another discussion. Harbaugh is the managing editor of the Vikings and Buccaneers Wires for the USA TODAY network, and his knowledge and perspective on those teams, as well as Detroit, get spotlighted in this Daily. The Jahmyr Gibbs contract extension in Detroit leads off the conversation. Harbaugh is envious of the Lions' abundance of high-end talent, something that neither NFC team he covers can come close to matching. Minnesota has major questions at quarterback, as well as throughout the back end of the defense. The failure of J.J. McCarthy to develop into a starting QB despite the Vikings having a strong offensive line, decent run game and an outstanding 1-2 punch at wide receiver frames everything else for their offseason. Trading away their top pass rusher hasn't helped the Vikings, either. The Buccaneers brought drama upon themselves with their handling of QB Baker Mayfield. No more Mike Evans in Tampa Bay, as well. Because Harbaugh and DLP host Jeff Risdon are both NFL Draft analysts, a brief discussion about the upcoming QB class throws some bones to the draftnik crowd. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jahmyrgibbs #minnesotavikings #tampabaybuccaneers #j.j.mccarthy #2027nfldraft #jaredgoff #nfcnorth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following the big new contract extension for star RB Jahmyr Gibbs, the Detroit Lions have now committed over $1 billion dollars to re-signing their own talent. Other than Jared Goff, it's all players drafted into Detroit since the Brad Holmes/Dan Campbell regime took over in 2021. With that plethora of high-end talent, it's clear the Lions have a strong chance of making the first Super Bowl in franchise history. It won't be easy and will require significantly better luck on the injury front than the team has suffered through lately. That includes better fortune with a couple of the players the Lions have locked down with big deals, namely safety Kerby Joseph and DT Alim McNeill. Having so many highly compensated players does create some roster-building issues. Keeping a middle class on the roster is increasingly difficult with every new lucrative payout. That places more pressure on the middle-round draft picks to develop into useful, inexpensive depth. In other Lions news, Detroit added veteran journeyman defensive tackle, Ben Stille. What does he offer for Detroit, and why is the team still eschewing a true nose tackle? The daily DLP tackles all that and more. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jahmyrgibbs #lionscontractextension #trainingcamp #benstille #jaredgoff #amon-rast.brown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jahmyr Gibbs signed a three-year extension with the Detroit Lions that makes him the NFL's highest paid running back by average annual value. As Jeff Risdon reported live, the deal can reach $75,750,000 with $51,500,000 guaranteed, ending any contract chatter and securing Detroit's most explosive skill player. What exactly did the Detroit Lions pay Jahmyr Gibbs? The Lions committed to three years, up to $75,750,000 with $51,500,000 guaranteed. Jeff Risdon also noted the structure as three years 67.5 that includes 51.5 guaranteed and can reach 75.75. That places Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs at the top of the position on a per-year basis. How did the market set up this number? Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor signed this morning for two years and $44,000,000, and Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson was referenced at up to $75,000,000. Detroit waited for others to set the market, then finalized Gibbs at the top without acrimony or (much) drama. Why was there never real tension around this deal? There was no standoff and no acrimony. Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell showed no stress at camp's open, and Gibbs missing early practices did not change the tone. As Jeff Risdon explained, the Lions expected a deal and let the market finalize first, then closed it quickly. This was not a drawn-out negotiation. The team and player remained aligned, Detroit moved decisively once comparable numbers were public, and they eliminated a distraction before it could dominate press conferences. Quarterback Jared Goff will not field contract questions about his running back anymore. How does this fit the Lions' roster-building strategy? Detroit pays its core and keeps windows open with smart term. The Lions have already invested in right tackle Penei Sewell, defensive tackle Alim McNeill, edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, linebacker Jack Campbell, safety Kirby Joseph, and tight end Sam LaPorta stands out as a logical next extension candidate. As Jeff Risdon noted, shorter deals deliver more control, more bonuses, and better player leverage, a trend popularized by Kirk Cousins. Gibbs is 24, and his run plus receiving profile matches the modern value proposition. Detroit Lions running back Jabari Small has flashed in camp, but Gibbs does things that cannot be coached or diagrammed. That is why Detroit prioritized him and why his number sits atop a quickly moving market. What does this mean for 2026 expectations? Detroit must win at the highest level. Jeff Risdon said this is Detroit's best chance to win the NFC, with the Rams, Seahawks, Chicago, Green Bay, and San Francisco providing real competition. Health and one poor offensive coordinator hire last year were the recent obstacles, not talent. Gibbs changes outcomes. As Risdon put it, he can turn any play into a big play from anywhere on the field. The Detroit Lions Podcast take is straightforward, and the contract confirms it: Detroit secured a championship-caliber core, and the highest-paid running back in the NFL by AAV is a central pillar of that push. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jahmyrgibbs #three-yearextension #highest-paidrunningback #51.5millionguaranteed #75.75million #averageannualvaluerecord #jonathantaylorcontract #bijanrobinsonreference #dancampbell #jaredgoff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions Early Camp Report Training camp has moved from anticipation to evaluation, and the Detroit Lions are beginning to reveal which offseason assumptions can survive contact. With padded practices underway and the Hall of Fame Game signaling the return of NFL football, depth charts are shifting, injuries are creating opportunities, and competitions are becoming more serious. On this episode of the Detroit Lions Podcast, Chris and Jeff Risdon bring Allen Park to Lions fans with a close look at the camp battles unfolding now, roster moves created by injuries, early surprises, fan access, and the growing conversation around Jahmyr Gibbs. Camp Battles Are Beginning to Produce Answers The competition at outside cornerback remains one of the most important stories in camp. Rock Ya-Sin and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. are receiving meaningful opportunities opposite D.J. Reed, with Rakestraw also working inside. Detroit needs more than a nominal replacement for Terrion Arnold. It needs a dependable secondary rotation that can withstand a full season. The offensive line is also taking shape. First-round pick Blake Miller has received first-team work at right tackle and has looked composed during difficult assignments. Christian Mahogany and Juice Scruggs remain part of the discussion at left guard, while Cade Mays continues the demanding transition into the starting center role. Greg Dortch has quickly become one of the most useful additions in camp. His familiarity with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing has helped him play fast, and his value at receiver and returner gives Detroit another answer in the competition to replace Kalif Raymond. Jameson Williams has also carried a strong offseason into camp, creating separation at multiple levels and strengthening his connection with Jared Goff. Jahmyr Gibbs Hold-In Changes the Backfield Picture The Jahmyr Gibbs hold-in is now one of the defining stories of Detroit Lions training camp. Gibbs has reported and remained around the team, but he has not participated in practice while his contractual future is unresolved. He is already under team control through the exercised fifth-year option, but his production and importance to the offense make a long-term extension a major organizational decision. His absence matters beyond the negotiating table. Isiah Pacheco has received more prominent work, while Jacob Saylors and Jabari Small have gained opportunities. Sione Vaki's facial and eye injuries further thinned the group and contributed to Detroit adding Raheem Blackshear. The result is a backfield competition that looks very different without its most explosive player taking snaps. The central question is how long the hold-in lasts, what it means for Gibbs' future in Detroit, and whether the missed practice time affects the installation of Drew Petzing's offense. Injuries, Surprises, and the Early Confidence Check The Lions are already adjusting to injuries throughout the roster. Jimmy Rolder, Derrick Moore, Anthony Firkser, Malcolm Rodriguez, and Vaki have all generated concern or forced changes in practice plans. Those absences have created openings for players such as Tyler Lacy and Jabari Small to earn legitimate consideration. Fan access at the Meijer Performance Center continues to give supporters a close view of those developments. Free, ticketed practices and post-practice interaction have helped make Allen Park part of the team's identity. So how confident should Lions fans feel? The top of the roster remains strong, but the depth is being tested earlier than expected. Join Chris and Jeff for the Detroit Lions Early Camp Report as they separate meaningful progress from August noise and examine the Gibbs hold-in, camp battles, injuries, surprises, and the state of the team. #DetroitLions, #Lions, #DetroitLionsPodcast, #OnePride, #JahmyrGibbs, #GibbsHoldIn, #DetroitLionsTrainingCamp, #TrainingCamp, #CampBattles, #LionsInjuries, #LionsRoster, #JaredGoff, #JamesonWilliams, #DanCampbell, #NFLNews #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #detroitlionstrainingcamp #detroitlionsnews #jahmyrgibbs #jahmyrgibbshold-in #jahmyrgibbscontract #nfltrainingcamp #trainingcampbattles #lionsinjuries #lionsrosterconcerns #dancampbell #jaredgoff #jamesonwilliams #blakemiller Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP from the Detroit Lions Podcast breaks down all the observations and takeaways from the team's second padded training camp practice. Tuesday, August 4th saw a few players rise and fall on the practice field at the Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park. Among the big winners was RB Jabari Small. With Sione Vaki out with a broken nose suffered in Monday's practice, and with Jahmyr Gibbs still not practicing, Small stepped up on the depth chart and looked like he belonged. His quick footwork and nifty cuts created a couple of big gains for the Lions offense. Teddy Bridgewater had his best day of training camp. It was certainly his most accurate, though the final drive in team drills saw the veteran backup QB fall back a bit. This was the first practice of the summer where Bridgewater looked clearly better than undrafted rookie Luke Altymer. Devin White showed why the Lions signed the former All-Pro LB. He is fast and he closes hard on the ball in the run game. Coverage looks to be an issue, as he ran himself out of position on a couple of different routes. He had some nice reps with the first-team defense, better than when he played in the nickel package with some reserves. Ahmed Hassanein had his best day of the summer, too. The fan favorite EDGE worked well playing outside Mekhi Wingo in heavier packages. Hassanein did appear to suffer a minor groin or upper leg injury late in the practice that caused him to take to the turf a couple of times, but he didn't seem distressed when talking to reporters after practice. His bull rush is getting better by the day. Hassanein also wasn't shy about getting after some offensive linemen after plays, showing fire that the team needed. Hassanein's fire was matched on the offense by WR Greg Dortch. The word “feisty” came up twice in the notes. It's not all negative-tinged either; Dortch and rookie UDFA LB Erick Hunter started jawing a bit after a special teams rep. After Dortch threw Hunter the ball, the two came together and Dortch appeared to praise the youngster, tapping Hunter's helmet and clapping. It was not a good day for Keith Abney, as the rookie CB struggled. Veteran Ennis Rakestraw also got victimized with a bad coverage lapse. It didn't look like the best day for new starting center Cade Mays either, notably in the run game--though he did have a couple of nice reps. That's training camp. Good players have bad days, and lesser players rise up at times. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #teddybridgewater #detroitlionstrainingcamp #lionscamp #gregdortch #isaacteslaa #keithabney #rockya-sin #trevornowaske #devinwhite #anthonyfirkser #jabarismall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP goes through the news and notes from the first day in pads in Detroit Lions training camp this summer. There were some strong performances, with rookie RT Blake Miller standing out on a good overall day. He looks the part. Tyler Lacy stood out amongst the defensive linemen, winning several reps in both pit drills and team drills. TE Anthony Firkser was having a great day before leaving with a leg injury. Wideout Lawrence Keys suffered the same fate, unfortunately. We don't know the severity of their injuries yet. Coach Dan Campbell offered injury updates on Jimmy Rolder, Derrick Moore and others, too. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #lionstrainingcamp #blakemiller #tylerlacy #aidanhutchinson #djwonnum #jaredgoff #christianmahogany #mekhiwingo #levionwuzurike #devinwhite #dancampbell #anthonyfirkser #sionevaki #ennisrakestrawjr #samlaporta #dominiclovett Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some unfortunate injury news on one of the team's draft picks has forced the Detroit Lions to make a move as August begins. The Lions have signed veteran LB Devin White as a free agent. White is best-known for his All-Pro years with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at the beginning of the decade. He spent last season with the Las Vegas Raiders, where he led the team in tackles and finished in the top five in the league. White is now on his fourth team in a little under three years, bouncing from Tampa Bay to Philadelphia, which cut him ahead of the 2024 season. He played as a reserve in Houston later in 2024 before becoming a full-time starter in Las Vegas last year. White is known for his speed and prolific tackling numbers, but also for lapses in coverage and poor run game discipline throughout his career. The Lions are offering White a chance to prove himself once again due to an injury to rookie LB Jimmy Rolder. Detroit's fourth-round pick from Michigan exited Friday's practice session with a leg injury. While Rolder's exact injury is still not public knowledge, sources indicate it is not a season-ending injury. White brings a little more speed and some veteran presence to the room, but the missed time will hurt Rolder's ability to contribute more in his first season with the Lions. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #lionstrainingcamo #lionsinjuryupdate #devinwhite #jimmyrolder Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP breaks down several of the Detroit Lions training camp updates from Friday, July 31st. First up, some good news. Left guard Christian Mahogany was activated from the non-football injury list. Mahogany practiced for the first time, earning starter reps. Mahogany also addressed the media after practice and indicated that he knows he needs to get better, especially in pass protection. He's in a position battle and he knows it. The Lions made a pre-practice change to the TE room. Out goes Zach Horton, and Horton's departure makes way for a return by veteran Anthony Firkser. With Tyler Conklin still out for at least another week, Firkser brings a familiar presence to the room. Horton's departure appears to be positive news for rookie UDFA Miles Kitselman's status, too. There were a couple of players who left practice early with injuries. Alim McNeill seemed no worse for the wear after practice following a neck injury, while rookie LB Jimmy Rolder departed with a leg injury that appeared as if it could be a little more prominent. With no practice until Sunday, we'll have to wait and see for any injury updates. Finally, Daily DLP host Jeff Risdon offers his takeaways from the Lions' Inside the Den episode that debuted on Thursday night. It was a lot of validation and confirmation of the presumed pre-draft love for both Blake Miller and Derrick Moore. Definitely worth your watch as a Lions fan. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #lionstrainingcamp #insidetheden #christianmahogany #nfilist #passprotection #anthonyfirkser #zachhorton #mileskitselman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions defense owned Day 2 of training camp. The offense intentionally worked short-game installs, which muted explosive plays, and Dan Campbell placed Detroit Lions offensive tackle Giovanni Manu on NFI with a previously undisclosed summer injury that will sideline him for a period of time. Why did the defense win Day 2? The defense executed, communicated and finished. Detroit Lions linebacker Derek Barnes baited and intercepted quarterback Jared Goff by bluffing a blitz then dropping into the passing lane. Detroit Lions edge rusher DJ Wonnum repeatedly disrupted plays, including blowing up a run and compressing the pocket even through contact. Detroit Lions defensive back Nick Whiteside stacked another strong day with a sharp pass breakup, which is how camp risers separate. As Jeff Risdon noted, the environment was quiet without fans, which made communication from leaders pop. Detroit Lions safety Chuck Clark directed traffic pre-snap and handled single-high responsibilities when Detroit worked base nickel. The overall theme was keep the ball in front, rally and end drives. How did the quarterbacks look in the short-game install? Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff was efficient within the plan, hitting timing throws and moving the ball underneath. Detroit Lions quarterback Teddy Bridgewater had an underwhelming day overall, including a hospital ball, but he also ripped a veteran hole shot to Detroit Lions wide receiver Greg Dortch between zone layers. Detroit Lions quarterback Luke Altmyer looked like a clean operator for the quick game, a baseline fit to run the Goff-style offense at a rudimentary level. The team period emphasized dink-and-dunk by design, not a lack of ambition. As Jeff Risdon emphasized, context matters in camp, because the offense was installing specific concepts rather than chasing chunk gains. What did Dan Campbell say about Giovanni Manu and early-camp sloppiness? Dan Campbell said Giovanni Manu is on NFI after disclosing a prior summer injury post-practice, and he will be out for a period of time. Campbell even floated twelve or fourteen weeks as placeholders, then stressed he did not know the exact timeline. Risdon read Campbell's tone as notably negative, and he added that you would struggle to find anyone in the media room who expects to see Manu in a Detroit uniform again. Campbell's on-field priorities remained clear, run the ball, stop the run and master situational football at the end of halves and games. With new voices, offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, passing game coordinator Mike Kafka and tight ends coach Steve Hatten, early misalignments happened, including a re-huddle on the second team-play, which is acceptable on Day 2 without pads. Who flashed and what were the standout moments? Detroit Lions wide receiver Cedric Wilson delivered the play of the day, a one-handed snag over Detroit Lions cornerback Khalil Dorsey with perfect timing and toe-tap control. Wonnum's surge included beating Detroit Lions offensive lineman Larry Borom when Borom checked in as an extra tackle, and walking back Detroit Lions offensive tackle Devin Cochran on a rush rep. Detroit Lions right tackle Blake Miller had a mixed day against top competition, which is part of the growth curve. On special teams, Dortch took the first return rep and looked decisive, while Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa also rotated in. Detroit Lions defensive end Peyton Turner did not practice with a minor back issue. Barnes stood out in drills and at the podium, a composed, articulate presence after practice. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jaredgoff #teddybridgewater #lukealtmyer #giovannimanu #djwonnum #derekbarnes #khalildorsey #cedricwilson #gregdortch #chuckclark #peytonturner #amon-rast.brown #blakemiller #larryborom #mikekafka Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit Lions training camp is underway at the Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park. The Daily DLP explores some of the primary statements and themes from head coach Dan Campbell's press conference to open training camp. Injury updates Campbell led off with some mixed news on the starting safeties, Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph. Bad news first. Joseph will remain on the PUP for at least a couple of weeks, and Campbell offered that having the All-Pro available for Week 1 would be “a bonus” and looks unlikely at this point. Campbell had better news on Branch, who is recovering from a December Achilles injury. Branch could be cleared to practice by the end of training camp. That would accelerate his timeline for playing up from the current expectation of around Halloween. There was also good news on guard Christian Mahogany. Campbell indicated Mahogany will be back shortly, as early as Friday's practice. Defensive back Christian Izien is down with a minor illness and will also be back very soon. On TE Tyler Conklin, he's dealing with a calf injury that will sideline the free agent acquisition for at least two more weeks. Jahmyr Gibbs There was no word on Jahmyr Gibbs being injured, and the Daily DLP ended with the news that Gibbs was not participating in today's opening practice session. He's looking for a contract extension and his absence should be viewed as a holdout until otherwise directed. It's not an unexpected development with Gibbs, and Campbell praised the star RB in his remarks. Both sides are working to get a deal done, Campbell noted. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #kerbyjoseph #brianbranch #jahmyrgibbs #dancampbell #chuckclark #christianizien #christianmahogany #tylerconklin #brockwright #jacksonmeeks #aidanhutchinson #aleemmcneill #levionwuzurike #djwonnum #j.t.tufele Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Daily DLP offers up the final pre-camp position preview for the Detroit Lions. Today hits the EDGE group, which has a superstar at the top, followed by some newcomers with higher-end potential than what Detroit has seen in recent years. Before the EDGEs, the Lions did add another player to the den. The Lions signed veteran linebacker Troy Reeder on Monday. Reeder has spent his entire 7-year NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams. He's thrived on the Rams' special teams units, playing on all types of special teams. Defensively, Reeder does have some starting experience. He offers the same kind of straight-line athleticism and attacking style that the Lions have in players like Trevor Nowaske and Damone Clark. Rams fans were openly hostile towards Reeder in coverage and in getting fooled on play action, so expectations for the new Lions LB are probably best kept in check. The EDGEs Aidan Hutchinson headlines a group that made quite a few changes this offseason. Hutch is a threat to lead the NFL in sacks after topping all players in QB pressures a year ago. He's an alpha dog capable of first-team All-Pro status. Beyond Hutchinson, DJ Wonnum and Derrick Moore each bring some power, length and durability to the EDGE room. Wonnum is known for his run defense and ability to crush the can from his days with the Panthers. Moore, Detroit's second-round pick, plays better in space than Wonnum and bends the corner well. This year's wild card is Payton Turner. The former Saints first-rounder is the new Marcus Davenport. If he's healthy, Turner's length, strength and athleticism demand respect. He's fully capable of being a starter opposite Hutchinson, and ahead of Wonnum and Moore. Alas, Turner has--like Davenport--been far more known for his injuries than his production in the NFL. Players like Ahmed Hassanein, Anthony Lucas and Eric O'Neill are all competing to raise their profiles and rosters statuses, too. Hassanein's energy and desire to grow his game are fun to watch develop in Detroit. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #aidanhutchinson #peytonturner #djwonnum #derrickmoore #troyreeder #lionstrainingcamp #edge #ahmedhassanein #paytonturner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Detroit Lions must phase out three-linebacker defense and scrap the 3-3 in 2026. They played 657 of 1,050 defensive snaps in 4-3 last season, 62.57 percent, and used the 3-3 front 243 times, far more than any other team. The defense improves when Detroit lives in nickel and dime with more speed on the field. Should the Detroit Lions ditch three-linebacker packages in 2026? Yes. They leaned on three linebackers far more than the rest of the NFL, and it invited speed mismatches against modern offenses in 11 personnel. As Jeff Risdon noted, the Lions were in 4-3 on 657 of 1,050 defensive snaps, 62.57 percent, with only one other team above 50 percent at 52.88. Playing bigger and slower on passing downs made the second level late to space and created exploitable coverage targets. Risdon also said the quarterback rating allowed was almost the same whether Detroit had three linebackers on the field or not, which must change with a truer nickel and dime identity. What fronts should replace the 4-3 and 3-3 for Detroit? Detroit needs a heavier dose of 4-2 nickel, selective 5-1, and DB-heavy 3-2-6. Last year's baselines set the bar for improvement, not repetition. Usage facts that demand a shift As read by Risdon from Ryan Paganetti's study: the Lions used a 4-2 front only 111 times, last in the league. They used 5-1 zero times. They led the NFL in 3-3 with 243 snaps, while the next team was at 131, another at 31, and 17 teams did not use it once. Those numbers underline how far Detroit drifted from the league's nickel norms. Moving to 4-2 and sprinkling in 5-1 and 3-2-6 puts more speed and coverage on the field and better matches today's route distributions. Why did Detroit lean so hard into three linebackers last year? Injuries in the secondary and strong linebacker play pushed them there. Detroit Lions linebacker Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone, and Detroit Lions linebacker Derrick Barnes tackled well, and as Risdon emphasized, Detroit had the best missed tackle rate in football based on the data he cited. But even with quality play, a third off-ball linebacker versus spread looks concedes quickness. Think of how Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff shreds heavy linebacker looks with routes that stress the hook-curl and seams. Opponents did the same to Detroit when the Lions stayed big. Better health for Detroit Lions safety Kirby Joseph and Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch, plus a deeper secondary, should free the defense to keep an extra defensive back on the field. Will coaching changes accelerate the shift? Yes. Dan Campbell can reallocate more time to the defense because the offensive room is stronger, and that helps Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard refine personnel usage. As Jeff Risdon said, Sheppard must earn it by choosing fronts that keep speed on the field and by reserving three-linebacker looks for true run situations, not as a default. Expect to see more four- and five-man fronts paired with nickel in camp. Watch how often Detroit keeps two off-ball linebackers on the field, how Detroit Lions edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is deployed, and how Detroit Lions linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez or rookie depth are used situationally. Against division quarterbacks such as Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, forcing the mundane snap after snap with nickel bodies is the point. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #jackcampbell #alexanzalone #derrickbarnes #kirbyjoseph #brianbranch #jaredgoff #aidanhutchinson #malcolmrodriguez #calebwilliams #chicagobears #greenbaypackers #arizonacardinals #kansascitychiefs #dancampbell #kelvinsheppard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Detroit placed safety Brian Branch, safety Kerby Joseph and tight end Tyler Conklin on the physically unable to perform list, and it does not necessarily signal long-term loss. PUP only restricts on-field work at the start of camp, not meetings or rehab, and players can be activated at any time, even after a single day. Who went on the PUP list and what does it actually mean? Detroit Lions safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, plus tight end Tyler Conklin, will begin camp on PUP, which means they will not be in the first practice but can do meetings, conditioning and treatment. The PUP list is not injured reserve and activation can happen quickly. The move aligns with standard camp housekeeping. It keeps roster flexibility while athletic training staff finishes return-to-play ramps. It does not forecast a season timeline by itself, and there are examples of players coming off PUP after one day. PUP vs. NFI: what changes? On PUP, players are paid and have full access to coaches, meetings and trainers but cannot practice. The Non-Football Injury list functions similarly in practice limits, but pay is not guaranteed on NFI. When can Brian Branch return from his Achilles tear? Branch is not expected for the start of training camp. Host Jeff Risdon noted Branch tore his Achilles in December and cited the common 8 to 10 month window for a return-to-play ramp. He framed Halloween or the Germany trip timeframe as reasonable targets, with the goal of regaining his pre-injury form rather than rushing early-camp reps. The Lions have reinforced safety depth to absorb early-camp absences. Detroit Lions safety Chuck Clark, Detroit Lions defensive back Christian Izien and Detroit Lions defensive back Thomas Harper are in place to handle practice work until Branch is cleared. What is going on with Kirby Joseph after his tweet? Joseph is on PUP for knee management despite publicly betting he would avoid it, then following with a playful "y'all should have bet me" post after the designation. The team is managing his workload, and he can be activated at any time. Jefferson referenced an alleged degenerative knee condition and advocated for at least some preseason field testing so coaches know where he stands. Dan Campbell previously said the staff does not yet have a definitive answer and wants to find out during camp. The upside case remains obvious; Joseph led the NFL in interceptions in 2024, a version of Joseph that raises Detroit's defensive ceiling. How does Tyler Conklin's status impact tight end depth? Conklin missed mandatory minicamp with an undisclosed issue and starts on PUP, which stresses the depth more than safety does. Good Tyler Conklin is an upgrade over Detroit Lions tight end Brock Wright at TE2, and Jefferson made clear there is room to improve that spot. The Lions have enough safety depth to function early in camp, but they do not currently have three NFL tight ends available for any three-tight end looks. Conklin's prior productive stretch with the New York Jets underscores why Detroit signed him. Getting him cleared stabilizes the rotation and keeps the TE2 plan on track, even if three-tight end sets are not the base offense. #detroitlions #lions #detroitlionspodcast #puplist #lionstrainingcamp #brianbranch #kerbyjoseph #tylerconklin #brockwright #chuckclark #christianizien #thomasharper #dancampbell #detroitlionstrainingcamp #physicallyunabletoperformlist #safetyposition #tightenddepth #newyorkjets #drewpetzing #nflpreseason Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices