Training Camp Commences with Absences and New Opportunities
The Detroit Lions began their 2026 training camp with a 90-minute practice session, involving 86 players from their 90-man roster. Several players were not full participants, including Jahmyr Gibbs, who was absent, possibly due to ongoing contract extension discussions. Head coach Dan Campbell did not address Gibbs’ situation in a morning press conference but later told a sports network that the team plans to “take things as they come.”
Five other players were on injury lists. Among them, Kerby Joseph, Christian Izien, and Christian Mahogany were seen working with the training staff. Joseph and Izien focused on conditioning on the training hill before joining Brian Branch with the defensive backs. Mahogany also worked on the hill, suggesting a potential return to the team in a few days, as indicated by Campbell.
Offensive Line Adjustments and Standout Performances
In Gibbs’ absence, Isiah Pacheco initially took on starting running back duties during walkthroughs and 7-on-7 drills. However, when the team moved to 11-on-11s, Sione Vaki was the first running back on the field, with Pacheco substituting later. Vaki’s pass blocking and ability to handle blitzes were noted, contributing to his first-team reps. The team’s approach suggests they are not solely relying on Pacheco in Gibbs’ absence.
At tight end, with Tyler Conklin not practicing, rookie Miles Kitselman and converted tight end Jackson Meeks filled the TE3 role. They continued to practice ahead of other depth players. Meeks, who joined the team last year as a wide receiver, has officially transitioned to tight end. He expressed his goal to compete for a roster spot, stating, “What I’m just trying to show in camp is that I am supposed to be out there in this role.” Meeks emphasized his comfort with the physicality of the position, noting his background from a family of defensive linemen, including his uncle, former Lion Za’Darius Smith. He highlighted that blocking is “90% mindset and 10% technique.”
On the offensive line, Ben Bartch took first-team reps at left guard during walkthroughs due to Mahogany’s absence. However, during team drills, Juice Scruggs and Miles Frazier received opportunities to start. In the right tackle battle, first-round pick Blake Miller started the day with the first team, taking all reps at that position. His competitor, Larry Borom, worked at both right and left tackle with the second team and also served as a sixth offensive lineman with the first team, indicating versatility.
Defensive Depth Chart and Player Transformations
At safety, with Joseph, Branch, and Izien unavailable, the depth chart saw Avonte Maddox and Chuck Clark start. Thomas Harper was the next player off the bench, followed by Loren Strickland and Dan Jackson. Cornerback D.J. Reed demonstrated improved speed and change-of-direction skills, attributing his enhanced performance to offseason rehabilitation for his hamstring. Reed stated, “I’m faster, stronger, and have less body fat than I had last year.”
Opposite Reed, Ennis Rakestraw and Rock Ya-Sin are competing for the CB2 position. Rakestraw started during 7-on-7s, rotating with Ya-Sin, and then they switched roles in 11-on-11s, suggesting an ongoing battle for the spot. At linebacker, Jack Campbell and Derrick Barnes were the expected starters, with Malcolm Rodriguez joining in three-linebacker sets. Among the reserves, rookie Jimmy Rolder took second-team reps at MIKE, Damone Clark played WILL, and Trevor Nowaske lined up at SAM, indicating confidence in Rolder’s ability to adapt to the scheme.
The team’s use of base formations with three linebackers led to increased playing time for big ends like Tyler Lacy and Ahmed Hassanein. Lacy continued in his starting role, while Hassanein believes his transition to the position will aid his competition for a roster spot. Hassanein noted that the position fits his play style and complements the defensive line. He also mentioned that Aidan Hutchinson connected him with a trainer who helped him reduce body fat and add muscle, enhancing his mobility and power. Hassanein expressed excitement for his new role, which he feels plays to his strengths, particularly his power, and believes he can bring athleticism to the position.
Joseph, despite being on an injury list, engaged in an intense sideline workout that included high-speed lunges, side-to-side crossovers, and sprints up the hill, demonstrating encouraging movement. He later posted on social media about his commitment to working hard.
Source: prideofdetroit.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.